Does the Auto Side Mirror heating function work?

With the continuous development of automobile technology, many high-end configurations have gradually become popular in more models, among which "automatic side mirror heating function" (Heated Side Mirrors) is one of them. So, is this seemingly inconspicuous function useful? Is it worth considering when buying a car or adding it? This article will analyze its actual value from multiple angles.

1. What is the side mirror heating function?
The side mirror heating function refers to embedding heating wires inside the rearview mirror glass or using other heating technologies to heat the mirror surface through electric current in low temperature, humid or foggy weather to achieve the purpose of defrosting, defogging and dewatering. This function can usually be turned on manually through the button in the car, or it can be linked with the vehicle's air conditioning system, or automatically started by the body control module according to the ambient temperature and humidity.

2. Practical analysis
1. Improve the clarity of vision in rainy and snowy weather
In winter or humid areas, after the vehicle is parked outdoors overnight, the surface of the rearview mirror is easy to frost and ice, affecting the driver's observation of road conditions. The side mirror heating function can quickly remove these obstacles, ensuring that the driver can get a clear rear view before starting, avoiding safety hazards caused by unclear vision.

2. Improve driving safety
A good rearview mirror view is the basis for safe lane changes, reversing and merging. Especially when driving at high speeds, if the rearview mirror is unclear, it may not be possible to detect the vehicle behind in time, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, the heating function can significantly improve driving safety in bad weather conditions.

3. Reduce the time and trouble of manual wiping
For vehicles without heating function, drivers often need to manually remove frost or rain from the mirror, which is not only time-consuming and laborious, but also may cause physical discomfort in cold weather. With the heating function, this process can be completed fully automatically, improving the convenience of using the car.

4. Extend the service life of the rearview mirror
Long-term water accumulation and frost may cause mirror aging, corrosion and even circuit short circuit. The heating function helps keep the mirror dry, delays the aging of components to a certain extent, and protects the overall performance of the rearview mirror.

3. Applicable people and scenarios
Car owners in northern and high-cold areas: For areas that experience severe cold and snowfall all year round, the heating function is almost a necessity.
People who often get up early to commute: The temperature is low in the early morning, and it is easy to condense and frost. The heating function makes travel more efficient.
Users who frequently encounter rainy days: Rainwater attached to the mirror surface will affect observation on rainy days, and the heating function helps to quickly drain and defog.
Female or elderly drivers: They may not be convenient to clean the rearview mirror frequently, and the heating function greatly reduces the burden.
4. Cost and energy consumption considerations
Although the heating function will bring a certain amount of power consumption, compared with the power consumption of the whole vehicle, this part of the power is very small, usually around tens of watts, and the impact on the battery and fuel consumption is almost negligible. In addition, many models now have this function as standard or optional, the price is not high, and the cost performance is high.

5. Synergy with other functions
The heated rearview mirror is often integrated with electric folding, automatic anti-glare, blind spot monitoring and other functions to form a complete set of intelligent rearview system. This integration not only enhances the sense of technology, but also makes the driving experience more intelligent and humane.

The Auto Side Mirror heating function has obvious practical and safety advantages in specific climates and usage scenarios. Although it is not a must-have feature for every car, for drivers living in rainy, snowy or cold areas, this configuration can indeed improve the comfort and safety of daily car use. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a car and there is more wet and cold weather in your area, it is recommended to give priority to models equipped with heated rearview mirrors.