2025-2026 Audi A3/S3/RS3 Mirror Heating Issue

Owners of 2025-2026 Audi A3, S3, and RS3 models may encounter a situation where their exterior mirror heating appears to be inoperative. This common concern, often described as "mirror heating not working," is thoroughly addressed by Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2076087/2. This bulletin clarifies that the condition is not a malfunction but rather a deliberate operational characteristic designed into the vehicle's systems, specifically tied to the Audi Drive Select mode.

Symptoms

The primary symptom reported by owners is the failure of the exterior mirrors to heat up when activated. This issue, which might lead owners to believe there's a fault with their Audi S3 mirror heating, consistently occurs when the Audi Drive Select system is engaged in its "efficiency" mode. In this mode, the mirrors will remain cold, which can be particularly noticeable and inconvenient in colder climates or damp weather conditions.

Technical Background: Why the Mirror Heating Behaves This Way

Audi's technical explanation, detailed in TSB 2076087/2, attributes this behavior to specific efficiency requirements. To optimize fuel consumption and minimize energy draw from various vehicle systems, the mirror heating function is automatically disabled when the Audi Drive Select is set to efficiency mode. This design choice applies to the affected A3, S3, and RS 3 models from model years 2025-2026, particularly those equipped with "PR: GP1" (Vehicles with special upgrade measures). The system is designed to prioritize overall vehicle efficiency in this specific drive mode.

Diagnosis and Affected Vehicles

Workshop findings consistently confirm that customer reports of "The mirror heating is not working" are reproducible when the Audi Drive Select is in efficiency mode. The diagnostic process for this condition is straightforward: if the mirror heating is inoperative only when the vehicle is in efficiency mode, it is operating as designed. This TSB applies to all VIN ranges of the 2025-2026 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 models.

Crucial Information for Owners: No Repair Needed

A critical point emphasized in TSB 2076087/2 is that "there is no reason to replace parts or attempt repairs" for this condition. Owners should understand that this is not a defect requiring a fix. Attempting to diagnose or repair the mirror heating system when it is functioning as intended in efficiency mode will not resolve the perceived issue. Furthermore, Audi explicitly states that "any work invoiced without approval will be charged back" and "invoicing under warranty is not permitted" for this specific scenario. This warning is crucial for owners to avoid unnecessary service charges or warranty claim denials.

How to Activate Your Mirror Heating

If you find your Audi S3 mirror heating is not working, the solution is simple and does not require a visit to a dealership for a repair. To activate the exterior mirror heating function, you merely need to change your Audi Drive Select setting. The mirror heating will operate normally and can be fully activated when the Audi Drive Select system is in "comfort," "auto," or "dynamic" mode. This operational detail is also described in your vehicle's Owner's Manual, providing a quick reference for owners.

TSB Revision History

This Technical Service Bulletin, identified by transaction number 2076087/2, was released on January 15, 2026. It supersedes an earlier version, 2076087/1, which was initially published on November 22, 2024. The revisions were made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided to technicians and owners. Specifically, Revision 2 included updates to the title, header (incorporating Model Year 2026 and an updated model table), the condition description, service instructions, warranty details, and additional information sections. This ongoing revision process helps to provide clear guidance and prevent the misdiagnosis of what is, in fact, normal vehicle operation under specific conditions.

NHTSA ID: 11028426