What cars have heated wing mirrors?
Heated wing mirrors are widely available on most new cars today, especially in colder markets, typically as standard or part of a cold-weather package.
What heated wing mirrors are and how they work
Heated exterior mirrors use a small electric heating element behind the glass to quickly clear frost, ice, and condensation. Activation is typically tied to the car’s climate system or rear window defroster, and in many models the feature is bundled with other comfort or visibility options. The exact behavior can vary by model, but the basic idea is simple: you press a switch or rely on an automatic setting to warm the mirrors so you can see clearly again.
How heating is typically supplied
Most mirror heaters draw power from the vehicle’s electrical system and are enabled when you activate the rear defroster or a dedicated mirror-heat control. In many newer cars, heated mirrors are paired with other features such as auto-dimming and power-folding, forming part of a higher-trim or all-weather package.
Where heated mirrors are most commonly found
The following categories reflect common patterns in modern car lineups. They indicate where you’re more likely to find heated exterior mirrors, but always verify for a specific model and trim.
- Luxury and premium brands: Heated exterior mirrors are standard on most models from brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Lexus, Jaguar, and Land Rover, especially in recent years. For these brands, you’re often covered across many trims.
- Mainstream brands: Many mainstream brands offer heated mirrors on mid-to-high trims or as part of cold-weather or tech packages. Availability can vary by model and region, so check the exact trim/spec sheet.
- Electric folding and other smart features: In many cars, heated mirrors are paired with power-folding, auto-dimming, and other convenience tech, and these combinations are more common on newer or better-equipped trims.
In practice, heated wing mirrors are increasingly common across market segments, but you should confirm for the exact model and trim you’re considering.
How to verify heated mirrors on a specific model
To confirm whether a particular car has heated mirrors before you buy, use the steps below.
- Check the official spec sheet or the brochure for the trim in question; look under Exterior Features or Mirrors for “heated” or “heated mirrors.”
- Inspect the mirror control area in the cabin; a heated-mirror symbol (often a small rectangle with wavy lines) on the mirror switch is a common indicator.
- Consult the owner’s manual or onboard infotainment/menu system, which may list Mirror Heating as an option or setting.
- Ask the dealer or sales advisor to confirm, and request the exact build screen or order code for the vehicle.
- For used vehicles, review the window sticker, vehicle build sheet, or vehicle history to verify whether heated mirrors were specified or retrofitted.
If you can’t confirm from documentation, consider choosing a different trim or model within the same brand that explicitly lists heated mirrors.
Retrofits and upgrade options if your car doesn’t have them
If your current vehicle doesn’t include heated mirrors, there are a few paths, though feasibility and cost vary by model and year. Some options are easier on newer cars with modular mirror assemblies, while others require more extensive work.
- OEM/Dealer retrofit: Some brands offer factory-backed upgrades or dealer-installed packages that add heated mirrors or upgrade the mirror module.
- Aftermarket heated mirror glass: Aftermarket kits can add heated glass to existing mirrors, but compatibility with auto-dimming, power-folding, and wiring should be confirmed and installed by a professional.
- Model/trims upgrade: In many cases, upgrading to a higher trim or a newer model that includes heated mirrors is simpler and more reliable than retrofitting.
Consult a qualified technician or the dealer to assess compatibility, warranty implications, and total cost before proceeding with any retrofit.
Regional availability and climate considerations
Availability and expectations for heated mirrors vary by region, climate, and market. In colder regions, heated mirrors are frequently standard or widely bundled with weather-related packages. In milder climates, manufacturers may offer them as optional or only on higher trims, so it’s especially important to verify the exact configuration for your location.
- Europe and North America: Heated mirrors are commonly included in mid-to-high trims or as part of cold-weather packages, with luxury brands often including them as standard.
- Other markets: Availability depends on brand strategy and local demand; always check the model’s specifications for your country or region.
Because regional offerings can differ even within the same model year, always confirm the feature with your local dealer for the exact vehicle you plan to purchase or lease.
Summary
Heated exterior mirrors have become a standard convenience feature on many new cars, especially in colder climates and on luxury or well-equipped trims. To know for sure whether a specific model has heated mirrors, check the official specifications, inspect the mirror control area for a heating symbol, read the owner’s manual, and confirm with the dealer. If a particular car lacks heated mirrors, options range from aftermarket glass to dealer-installed upgrades or choosing a higher trim or newer model that includes the feature by default.
