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lennyschroeder4

VW Beetle Mirror Heaters Failed, Repair Guide & Costs

Looking for advice on my car mirror heater issue. The heated mirrors stopped working completely and my scan tool shows a stored error code. Wondering if anyone had similar problems and what the repair costs were at their shop. Not too excited about another workshop visit after my last experience. Car details: 2019 VW Beetle, gas engine, 53271km.

4 comment(s)

richardblaze6

The heated car mirror issue on VW models often points to a wiring harness fault or corroded connector pins. When my 2016 VW Golf had similar symptoms during winter driving, the diagnosis revealed damaged wiring near the door hinge area where cables repeatedly flex. The repair involved: Testing the mirror heating element, Replacing the complete door wiring harness, Updating the body control module software, Checking all rearview mirror connections This turned out to be a significant repair that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The vehicle safety system stored multiple error codes related to the door electronics, not just the mirror heater. The cold weather exposure had accelerated the wire insulation deterioration. The fix completely resolved the mirror heating problems and prevented potential issues with other door functions like power windows and locks. Proper functioning heated mirrors are essential for safe winter driving conditions. For your Beetle, have a technician verify if the issue stems from the same common failure point near the door hinge. The symptoms match what many VW owners experience with this generation of door wiring.

lennyschroeder4 (Author)

Thanks for sharing that detailed info about the wiring harness problem. This really matches my experience with the heated mirror malfunction on my 2018 Beetle. I took it to the shop last month with similar symptoms, complete mirror heater failure and error codes showing up. Could you remember roughly what the repair costs were in your case? My rearview mirror issue is nearly identical to what you described, and I want to get a sense of the budget needed. Also wondering if you had any other electrical gremlins pop up since getting it fixed? These winter driving issues with car electronics can get pretty expensive, so trying to plan ahead.

richardblaze6

After getting my Golf checked at the shop, the mirror heating problem turned out simpler than initially expected. The temperature control unit just needed a repair of the connector plug, which was causing the malfunction. Total cost came to 95€ for fixing the faulty connection. Much better outcome than replacing the entire wiring harness. The rearview mirror heating works perfectly now, tested it thoroughly during recent cold mornings. No other electrical issues have appeared since the repair. Your Beetle might have the same straightforward fix, since the symptoms match. Worth having a technician check the connections first before assuming worst-case scenarios. Getting proper mirror heating restored is crucial for vehicle safety, especially during winter driving conditions.

lennyschroeder4 (Author)

Yesterday I went to fix my Beetle mirror heater issue. The mechanic found the exact problem you mentioned, just a damaged connector. What a relief! The final bill was 110€, which included diagnostic time and parts. The temperature control now works perfectly in cold weather, and the heater element kicks in right away when needed. My car mirror defrosts completely in minutes. Such a difference compared to driving with foggy mirrors last week. Really glad I asked here first. Was preparing for a major repair cost, but ended up being a quick fix. No more error codes showing up either. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction with this one.

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