RS3 Mirror Heater Fault Fix: Cost & Solutions Guide

Having experienced a similar issue with a 2015 S3, I can confirm this is a common temperature control problem with the rearview mirror heating system. At the garage, they found the fault was a damaged wiring harness where it feeds into the mirror housing. The constant opening and closing of the mirror eventually wore through the protective sleeve. The repair involved a complete mirror replacement since the wiring harness is integrated into the mirror assembly. The diagnostic system initially showed similar error codes related to the heating element circuit. This wasnt a major mechanical issue, but the winter driving safety aspect made it important to address. The key signs were identical, mirror heater failing during cold weather and persistent electrical fault codes. The technician located the issue quickly due to its common occurrence in this model series. The repair is straightforward but requires specialized parts due to the integrated nature of the mirror components. A thorough check of the door wiring loom is also recommended since related connection issues can develop over time. Testing the mirror heating function after repair confirmed the fix was successful.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the S3 mirror issue. Dealing with something very similar on my RS3 right now. The winter driving situation definitely requires working mirror heaters for proper visibility and vehicle safety. The mirror replacement solution you mentioned sounds exactly like what my mechanic suggested. Before I commit to the repair, would you mind sharing what the total cost was for fixing yours? Also curious if youve had any other electrical issues pop up with the mirrors since getting it fixed?

Just had my RS3 back from the mechanic and can share some positive news regarding the electrical fault. Unlike what I initially experienced with my previous S3 that needed a full mirror replacement, this time it turned out to be much simpler and cheaper. The issue was traced to a faulty cable connection in the mirror housing. The technician was able to repair the existing wiring rather than replacing the entire mirror assembly. Total cost came to 95 Euro for the repair, which included fixing the connection and testing the heating element. The mirror heating now works perfectly in cold weather. Since the repair last month, no other electrical issues have emerged. Winter driving is much safer now with properly functioning heated mirrors, essential for maintaining clear visibility in cold conditions. This repair solution was definitely more cost-effective than the complete mirror replacement I had dealt with previously. If your diagnostic shows similar symptoms, might be worth having them check the connections first before committing to replacing the whole mirror unit.

I went ahead with the repair after getting your feedback, and Im relieved to report a positive outcome. The mechanic found the same electrical fault you mentioned but managed to fix it without needing a complete mirror replacement. My repair bill came to 120 Euro, which included diagnosing the temperature control issue and repairing the wiring connection in the mirror housing. The rearview mirror heating now works perfectly during cold weather conditions. The electrical fault code has cleared from the diagnostic system and hasnt returned. The whole process took about 2 hours at the shop. After a week of testing in various weather conditions, everything is working as it should. Much better outcome than expected, especially given my previous costly repair experiences. Definitely good to know these mirror heater issues can sometimes be fixed without replacing the entire unit. Thanks again for helping me avoid an unnecessary complete mirror replacement.