My rear defroster does not work, as I see that many people have experienced. I searched the topic and found plenty of wiring diagrams and even some tips on how to fix the problem. However, my issue is far more basic--where to find the wire harness on the rear windshield. Everything is covered by trim pieces, and I'm not in the mood to go taking the car apart if anyone can tell me where to go directly. Any help is appreciated!

 

To check wiring continuity, you'll need to remove both "C" pillars, but before you go tearing stuff apart, check these fuses:
#14, underhood fuse box
#7, #30 underdash fuse box.

Did you just recently have your rear window tinted?

However, there are several other possibilities besides faulty wiring connections?
Does the rear defog indicator light come on?

 

Yeah, I checked the fuses first, but I haven't had any tinting done (added or removed). If you have any recommendations for other places to look, I'm open.

 

Oh, yeah, the indicator does come on when pressed.

 

I just saw you're in Birmingham. How can you be sure you're rear defog isn't working in Birmingham, is it cold enough down there

Anyhow, here's some scans to get you started:

 

Can't say for everyone, but mine had fallen off by itself. The wiring connector that attaches to the terminal on the glass (behind the C Pillar cover) had a very loose fit and had fallen off.

 

Did your indicator light still come on when the connector was off?

 

I never used my defroster to know. Texas weather + garage kept = never did use defroster.

 

passenger side...looks like a ground


driver side..check those connections. you need to remove the side panel

 

libert69,

Is your car still apart? If so, pull off one of the connections (with car running), turn on the rear defog and see if the indicator light comes on.

If it doesn't, then he probably doesn't have a connection problem.

 

Wow, great visuals for the tips, guys. I'll have a chance to get outside and work on it this weekend. And, believe it or not, we do need our rear defrosters down here in 'Bama. Like everyone else east of the Mississippi, we've had a freakish winter.

 

libert69, if you do follow nfnsquared's recommendation, I'd love to hear the results. Anything I can do to avoid tearing things apart, I'll do.

 

sorry guys, these pics are from earlier in the weak when i was troubleshooting something else.