In winter, ice-covered rear view mirrors Ε KODA Octavia A7 can be a real headache - especially if you are in a hurry to get to work or an important meeting. Many owners do not even suspect that their car is equipped with a built-in heated mirror system, which solves this problem in a matter of minutes. But where to look for the power button? Why does the function sometimes not work? And can it be activated remotely?

In this article we will look at all the ways to control heated mirrors on Octavia A7 (including restyled versions 2017–2020), we will explain the connection with the heated rear window, and reveal hidden settings, which are not written about in the official manual. You will also learn how to check the health of the system and what to do if the mirrors remain cold despite all efforts.

Where is the heated mirror button?

On most versions Ε KODA Octavia A7 heated side mirrors does not have a separate button β€” it is activated automatically along with the heated rear window. This is a typical solution for VW Group, which is also found on other models of the concern, for example, Volkswagen Golf or Audi A3.

Look for the rear window defroster button - it's located on the center console, usually next to the climate control controls or under the multimedia control unit. On different trim levels Octavia A7 the button may look different:

  • πŸ”˜ Classic button with rear window heating pictogram (three wavy lines and a rectangle).
  • πŸ”„ Touchpad (on versions with Climatronic or Air Care).
  • πŸ”₯ Combination button with backlight - pressing turns on the heating, pressing again turns it off.

On some trim levels (for example, Style or RS) the button can be integrated into the control unit MaxiDOT or touch screen Columbus. If you don't find it on your console, check:

  • πŸ“± Menu Settings β†’ Comfort β†’ Heating on the display.
  • πŸ”§ Paddle shifters (rare, but found on European versions).
πŸ“Š How do you usually turn on the heated mirrors?
  • Along with rear window
  • Separate button
  • Through the menu on the screen
  • I don't know where this is done

How heated mirrors work: principle and heating time

Heated mirror system Octavia A7 uses electric heating elements, built into the mirror body. They are powered from the on-board network 12V and are activated simultaneously with the heated rear window. The power of the heating elements is usually 20–30 W for each mirror - this is enough to melt ice or condensation in 3–5 minutes.

Important nuances of the system:

  • ⏱️ Automatic shutdown: The heated mirrors work as long as the heated rear window (usually 10–15 minutes, then turns off automatically).
  • πŸ”‹ Battery load: when the heating of mirrors and glass is turned on, the total consumption can reach 150–200 W, which is noticeable when idling.
  • 🌑️ Temperature sensor: on some versions Octavia A7 heated mirrors are blocked if the outside temperature is higher +5Β°C (overheat protection).

If the mirrors do not heat up despite pressing the button, check:

  1. Fuse performance F37 (10A) per block SC (under the steering wheel).
  2. Integrity of wiring to mirrors (wires in the door corrugation often fray).
  3. Settings in VCDS (if diagnostics or chip tuning were previously carried out).
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If the heated mirrors work, but the rear window remains cold, check the relay J317 - it is responsible for both functions.

Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on heated mirrors

The process of activating the heated mirrors Octavia A7 depends on the configuration and year of manufacture. Below are universal instructions that are suitable for most versions (including Ambition, Elegance and RS).

Method 1: via the heated rear window button

  1. Start the engine or turn on the ignition (position ON).
  2. Find the heated rear window button (see section above) and press it once. The button should light up orange indication.
  3. Wait 1–2 minutes β€” the mirrors will begin to heat up. You can check this by touching their surface (be careful not to get burned!).

Method 2: through the on-board computer menu (for versions with Columbus or Ami)

  1. Click the button MENU on the steering wheel or touch screen.
  2. Go to section Settings β†’ Comfort β†’ Heating.
  3. Select an item Mirrors and activate the function (if there is no such option, your version does not support separate control).

β˜‘οΈ Checking the operation of heated mirrors

Done: 0 / 4

If the heating does not turn on, try reset settings on-board computer:

1. Turn off the ignition.

2. Press and hold the trip mileage reset button (on the dashboard).


3. Turn on the ignition without releasing the button until β€œRESET” appears.


4. Release the button and wait until the system reboots.

Heated mirrors and remote start: myths and reality

Many owners Octavia A7 wondering: is it possible to turn on heated mirrors? remotely, for example, via a key fob or mobile application Ε KODA Connect? The answer depends on the configuration and year of manufacture of the car.

Officially remote control heated mirrors not provided on most versions Octavia A7. However there are workarounds:

  • πŸ“± Ε KODA Connect (only for models with 2018): in some EU countries the function Pre-Climatization turns on heated windows and mirrors with remote start. In Russia, this option is often disabled in software.
  • πŸ”§ Additional modules: can be installed StarLine or Pandora with CAN bus support, which can emulate pressing the heating button.
  • πŸ”Œ Heating timer: on some versions (for example, with Climatronic) you can program automatic heating switching on in time after VCDS.

Important: when installing non-standard remote start modules, the heated mirrors may not work correctly due to conflicts with the CAN bus. Before installation, check compatibility with your version Octavia A7 (specify VIN at the dealer).

How to check Pre-Climatization support?

Open the Ε KODA Connect app β†’ Go to the "Remote control" section β†’ If there is a "Heating" item, your car supports the function. Otherwise, activation through a dealer will be required (cost ~5,000 rubles).

Typical faults and solutions

If heated mirrors are on your Octavia A7 stopped working, the reasons can be either trivial (a blown fuse) or serious (damage to the wiring or failure of the heating elements). Let's look at the most common problems and their solutions.

Symptom Possible reason Solution
The heating does not turn on, the indicator on the button does not light up Fuse blown F37 (10A) or relay J317 Check and replace the fuse. The relay is located in the block under the steering wheel
The indicator lights up, but the mirrors do not heat up Broken wiring in the door corrugation or failure of the heating element Test the wires with a multimeter. Replacing a mirror (~8,000 rubles for the original)
Heating works, but turns off after 1–2 minutes The temperature sensor has tripped (overheating) or the comfort unit is faulty J393 Reset errors via VCDS. When repeated - diagnostics of the block
Heating only turns on when driving The speed sensor is faulty or energy saving is set Check the sensor on the gearbox. Reset the on-board computer settings

Particular attention should be paid wiring in the door corrugation - this is the most vulnerable place. When opening/closing the door frequently, the wires fray, which leads to an open circuit. You can check this like this:

  1. Open the door and remove the plastic trim at the threshold.
  2. Find the corrugated wire and inspect it for damage.
  3. Test the wires with a multimeter (the resistance should be close to 0 ohm).
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If the heating of the mirrors stops working after washing or rain, most likely the problem is oxidation of the contacts. Process them WD-40 or special lubricant for electrical contacts.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use voltages higher than this to test heating elements. 12V - this can disable them. For diagnostics, a multimeter in circuit test mode is sufficient.

Is it possible to upgrade the heated mirrors on the basic trim levels?

If your Ε KODA Octavia A7 included Active or Ambition It is not equipped with heated mirrors from the factory, it can be modified. To do this you will need:

  • πŸ”§ Heated mirrors (original art. 5E1857507/5E1857508 or analogues from HELLA).
  • πŸ”Œ Wiring and connectors (connection kit, art. 1K0971584).
  • πŸ› οΈ Comfort control unit (if yours does not support the function, a replacement or firmware will be required).

Cost of modification:

  • Mirrors (original): ~15,000 rub. for a couple.
  • Wiring and connectors: ~3,000 rub.
  • Work (installation + firmware): ~5,000–8,000 rub.

Installation algorithm:

  1. Remove the old mirrors (unscrew the three bolts under the plastic door trim).
  2. Connect the new wiring to the comfort unit (connector T32, contacts 1 and 2).
  3. Install new mirrors and check the heating operation.
  4. If necessary, activate the function via VCDS (address 46 β€” comfort block, byte 0, bit 3).
⚠️ Attention: When modifying yourself, make sure that the new wiring does not conflict with the system CAN-Bus. Incorrect connection may cause errors in the operation of the on-board computer or system Parktronic.

Operating tips: how to extend the life of heated mirrors

To have heated mirrors on your Octavia A7 served for a long time and without failure, follow these recommendations:

  • 🚿 Avoid high pressure washing β€” a jet of water can damage the mirror seals and cause corrosion of the contacts.
  • ❄️ Do not scrape ice with plastic scrapers. - this scratches the surface and damages the heating element.
  • πŸ”Œ Check fuses regularly (especially before the winter season).
  • πŸ”‹ Do not turn on the heating when the engine is off - this quickly drains the battery.

If you frequently park on the street during the winter, consider these additional protective measures:

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Mirror covers (for example, from HEKO or 3D) - prevent icing and protect from mechanical damage.
  • πŸ’§ Hydrophobic coatings (type Rain-X) - reduce ice formation and improve visibility.

If the mirrors are still icy and the heating is not working, use special defrosters (for example, Liqui Moly Anti-Ice). Do not pour hot water on the mirrors - this may cause cracks!

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to turn on the heated mirrors separately from the rear window?

On most versions Octavia A7 This is impossible - the heated mirrors always work synchronously with the rear window. However, on some trim levels with Columbus (2018+) there is a hidden option in the menu that allows you to control them separately. Activation requires diagnostic equipment (VCDS or OBDeleven).

Why does the heated mirrors only work on the left side?

This is a typical sign of a broken wiring in the corrugation of the right door or failure of the heating element in the right mirror. Check:

  1. Integrity of wires (contacts 1 and 2 in the mirror connector).
  2. Heating element resistance (should be ~1–2 Ohm).
  3. fuse F37 - sometimes it burns out partially, turning off only one side.

If the problem is in the mirror, it will have to be replaced (heating elements cannot be repaired).

How long should the heated mirrors work?

Standard operating hours - 10–15 minutes, after which the system automatically turns off. If the heating turns off earlier, the following reasons are possible:

  • The energy saving mode is activated (for example, when the battery charge is low).
  • Comfort unit faulty J393 or temperature sensor.
  • In settings VCDS heating operating time changed (byte 4 in the block 46).

To reset the timer, turn the heating off and on again using the button.

Is it possible to install heated mirrors on the Octavia A7 FL (facelift) with your own hands?

Yes, but there are nuances:

  • On restyled versions (2017–2020) a different connector for mirrors is used (T40 instead of T32).
  • You will need to modify the wiring or purchase an adapter (art. 5Q0971584A).
  • In the comfort block (J393) option must be activated Heated Mirrors (byte 0, bit 3).

Cost of service work: ~10,000–15,000 rubles. (including materials).

Why doesn't the heating work after replacing the mirror?

Probable reasons:

  1. Unsuitable mirror model (for example, a mirror is installed without heating or from a different model VW Group).
  2. Incorrect connector connection (contacts are mixed up 1 and 2).
  3. No function activation in the comfort unit (required VCDS).
  4. The wiring is damaged during installation (check the circuit with a multimeter).

Solution: check the compatibility of the mirror (must be art. 5E1857507/8 or an analogue with heating), correct connection and availability of the function in the on-board computer settings.