Heated Mirror Element Replacement DIY
 

If ever you diagnose a blown element on you A8 <2007 heated mirror, this is what they are like inside.

Excellent stuff. You’re a braver man than I. Given the cost of the mirrors I live in fear of ever having to mess with them. My near side housing is missing a small part of the indicator. It has annoyed me all the time I’ve had the car, but I’m not touching it until I have to for an essential repair.