Is there anyway to tell if the heated screen is turned on?

I know the heated screen control button lights up when pressed, and that it also comes on automatically below 4 degrees (and the button lights up), but I've noticed condensation on the screen, when I get I my car despite it being above that temperature, clear - with the button remaining unlit. The pattern of clearance is exactly the same as if I had turned it on (a bit at each side uncleared, together with a stripe right down the middle and another very thin stripe on one side where I believe an element is broken).

I'm wondering if my screen is coming on every time I start the car - or if it is even on permanently. RRS MY17 SDV6 AB
Evoque MY17 TD4 AB

I have noticed the same thing on mine - even though the light is out it still seems to be heating the screen. The one way to find out is to go for a drive after dark and you will find that on coming car’s headlights are badly distorted when the heater is on. 2020 Pangea Green 1st Edition D240 New Defender 110 is here and loving it
2018 Melting Silver Mini Countryman PHEV - soon to be replaced
2015MY Corris Grey SDv6 HSE Dynamic, the best car I have ever owned, totally reliable only a cou0le of rattles in 3 years, now no longer in my care
Also in my garage is a 1996 TDi300 Defender 90 County HT made into a fake CSW

I was going to say, I can see when mines on as it distorts your view slightly.

Tim in Scotland wrote:

I have noticed the same thing on mine - even though the light is out it still seems to be heating the screen. The one way to find out is to go for a drive after dark and you will find that on coming car’s headlights are badly distorted when the heater is on.

I understand that both front and rear screens can switch on automatically in response to certain conditions to keep the screens clear of mist/condensation.

The indicator lights may or may not come on under those circumstances.

I have never personally noticed any difference in terms of the optical qualities of the front screen between "on" and "off". That might say more about my eyesight than anything else, lol. MY2016 HSE D SDV6 - gone due to fuel dilution problems.

By the age of 50 you have the face you deserve - George Orwell.

I assume the auto on is only on newer sports? Steve.

I recall it happening on my 2010 Jag XF. So nothing new.g MY2016 HSE D SDV6 - gone due to fuel dilution problems.

By the age of 50 you have the face you deserve - George Orwell.

Cymruambyth wrote:

I assume the auto on is only on newer sports?