The light works for the auto mirror

But turning it on and off seems to have no discernable impact on dimming (if it did would be useful).

 

Although it does seems somewhat dimmer to suggest it might be working particlar when cars are distant but seems a bit brighter when cars are closer.

 

Is there a mechanism for confirming correct operation of auto dimming mirror, anyone else wonder this also ?

Its not instant so gradually fades in and out so i don't think you can flick it on and off to notice it though?

If it is similar to the mk ii version try covering the sensor on the back of the mirror when the light is on and you should see it darken

Ah ok right thanks for your input

 

its not as dim it seems as the dim setting on a manual mirror to make it so obvious.

Does seem dimmer than side mirrors somewhat ( or cars driving toward) but would be handy if there was some way to guage it working.

That test best done in daylight by sounds of it (emulating lack of light/ light sensor)

Ah ok right thanks for your input

 

its not as dim it seems as the dim setting on a manual mirror to make it so obvious.

Does seem dimmer than side mirrors somewhat ( or cars driving toward) but would be handy if there was some way to guage it working.

 

Mine tends to make the lights behind slightly green / blue ish - could you try parking another car behind yours and turning the lights on to see if it fades/changes colour

I get the impression when working its really very subtle, far less than say using the manual mirror shift to night position on older cars like my Fabia 1 which I guess is my basis of comparison and why I've always wondered if its working properly or not.

 

Will have to try some of those tests though thanks

There are sensors located on the mirror. One facing the front one facing back. Each time the rear one is exposed to light flood and there is an adequate difference measured in the signal from both sensors, the mirror dims with emerald tint (liquid crystal layer I guess).

To test it, shine a flashlight on the sensor (located next to small green led indicator on the mirror) and there should be a gradual change visible. It takes few seconds, but you may see a faster (reverse) change when switching the system off after "blinding" it with light.

I'd an auto dim mirror on my MkII Elegance.

I switched mine off ,when a car was behind me, to test it at night time. Yes- it was working noticeably when I turned it on again.

The image was not as dim as that achieved with my manual dip on my current MkIII.  I prefer the DIY version.

Night time glare really affects my eyesight, so the auto dimming rear mirror is a god send. I was pleasantly surprised to find my Octavia also has auto dim wing mirrors, which are fantastic and really help with all round night vision. I guess they are linked in with the mirror sensor?

Edited 23 November, 20169 yr by Isocrem

Even with the auto dimming , sometimes I'd to put my hand over the mirror when stationary at traffic lights. Land Rover Discoveries with Xenon headlights are the worst imho.

Shine a bright torch in the senser in the back of the mirror you should notice the reflection turn blue - obvious I know _ but make sure the senser is turned on first.

 

Now my question - why would doing this affect the mirror dimming as the light is coming from the wrong direction? - I don't know either but this happens with my mirror.   :wonder:

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