How To Turn On Heated Mirrors Subaru Outback

How to Turn On Heated Mirrors Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback offers heated side mirrors, a fantastic feature for those chilly mornings or snowy winter days. This guide will walk you through activating this convenient function, ensuring clear visibility no matter the weather.

Locating the Heated Mirror Control

Unlike some vehicles with dedicated switches, the heated mirror control in the Subaru Outback is integrated within the rear defroster controls. This clever design streamlines the dashboard and prevents clutter.

Finding the Rear Defroster Button:

The button is typically located on the center console, often near the climate control system. It's usually easily identifiable by a symbol depicting a rear window with lines indicating heat. Look for a symbol that resembles a heated rear window. The exact location might vary slightly depending on your Outback's year and model. Check your owner's manual for the precise location if you are having trouble finding it.

Understanding the Integrated System:

Important Note: The heated mirrors activate simultaneously with the rear defroster. There's no separate switch for the mirrors. When you engage the rear defroster, the heated mirrors will also turn on automatically. This is a smart design ensuring both your rear window and mirrors are clear at the same time.

Activating the Heated Mirrors (and Rear Defroster)

1. Locate the rear defroster button: As described above, find the button on your center console.
2. Press the button: A single press activates the rear defroster and, consequently, the heated mirrors. You should see the indicator light illuminate, confirming that the system is working.
3. Monitor the mirrors: Within a short time, you should notice a significant improvement in mirror clarity as the heated elements warm the glass. This will help melt away frost, ice, or snow, improving visibility.

Troubleshooting: Heated Mirrors Not Working

If your heated mirrors aren't functioning, here are a few things to check:

• Verify the rear defroster is on: Double-check that the rear defroster button is indeed pressed and the indicator light is illuminated.
• Check the fuse: A blown fuse can prevent the system from working. Consult your owner's manual to locate the fuse box and identify the correct fuse for the rear defroster/heated mirrors.
• Inspect the mirrors: Look for any visible damage to the mirrors themselves that could interrupt the heating element.
• Consult your owner's manual: For more in-depth troubleshooting, refer to your vehicle's owner's manual.
• Subaru Dealership: If you've exhausted all other options, contact your local Subaru dealership for professional assistance.

Related Questions

• How long does it take for the heated mirrors to clear? This depends on the ambient temperature and the amount of frost/ice/snow buildup. Generally, it takes just a few minutes for noticeable clearing.
• Will using heated mirrors drain my battery? The power draw is relatively low, and shouldn't significantly impact your battery life under normal circumstances.
• Are heated mirrors important? Yes, particularly in cold and snowy climates, heated mirrors drastically improve visibility and safety by rapidly clearing ice and frost buildup, significantly enhancing driver safety.

By following these steps, you can easily activate your Subaru Outback's heated mirrors and enjoy clear visibility even in the harshest winter conditions. Remember to always prioritize safety and maintain good visibility while driving.