Hi,

I remember the side mirrors on my 1997 A4 would heat automatically when it was cold, and they would get rather warm (you could feel it with your hand).
The mirrors on my 1997 A8 don't seem to get as warm, even warm up at all. Is there a special procedure to turn them on, or could they possibly be broken (the mirrors are fine, not ''rusty''.)

thanks

 

Supposed to heat when car is switched on...on Facelift D2's (00-03). Fuse #1 in the second row (red row) powers the mirror heaters (10amp). May not be the same in earlier models...look at guide on fuse panel cover for heated mirror fuse.

 

Silver is right, if your rear defroster works than check the fuse, it should be a 10a no more no less. If the fuse checks ok than 1. remove the fuse, 2. with the car off check each side of the fuse connection for voltage to ground "should be 0" 3. check each connection for resistance " one side should be high or inf. the other should be 1.7ohms at the lowest "any lower would explain why you would have a opened fuse. If it is higher than 6 ohms there is a good chance that you have bad elements. If you want more info just post what your readings from this. Good luck