‘Make sure to turn it off’ warn drivers over little-known switch on side of their car – and 9 major brands have them
MOTORISTS have been left stunned after discovering a little-known switch in their car.
One baffled driver took to social media after he couldn't figure out what the window icon with three arrows going through it meant.
The driver found the button just above the knob to adjust your side windows on the driver's side of the car.
He took to social media with a photo of the button, alongside the caption: "What does this do? I can't seem to turn it on."
The post quickly amassed hundreds of likes and dozens of comments from car experts rushing to his help.
Although one user was quick to write "thats a noodle box discard button", others were more helpful.
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Several users declared that the button was there to defrost your side mirrors.
Just like the buttons underneath your dashboard that can defrost the front and rear windscreens, this feature enables the supply of heat to your side mirrors.
It can then melt snow or ice, or even just remove condensation, and drastically improve your visibility.
Other social media users complained that these functions are never made clear to car users.
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One car whizz rushed to their aid, warning that they might not be using it right.
The expert said: "It's not a button, turn the mirror adjust knob clockwise until the mirror icon lights up.
"Just remember to turn it back off otherwise you could burn out the heating elements."
Most systems are automatic, and turn off after 10 to 15 minutes, but it can vary by vehicle so be sure to double check.
One user replied saying: "I just tested it. I feel dumb, and angry now. It's so simple yet so complicated.
Another added: "There are so many things like that and I ask myself 'Did they ever get some one who didn't build one of these things to test it?'"
While a third wrote: "These should be mandatory on every car. It's magical in the winter."
Which cars have side window defrosters?
Although not all cars have the heated side window function, most new cars (2010 onwards) from certain manufacturers include the feature.
These include, but are not limited to:
- Aston Martin
- Ford
- Jaguar
- Land/Range Rover
- Mini
- Nissan
- Skoda
- Vauxhall
- Volkswagen
While you might think you know your car like the back of your hand, you could easily be missing out on some key extras.
Motorists have been hailing the efficacy of the ultra-rare heated seat button - claiming that it's even helped them with their ailments.