Pic. 13.57. Elements of the rear window heater: a - a sedan body; b - coupe body; c - hatchback body; 1 – heater switch; 2 - interference suppression element
The rear window defroster consists of horizontally arranged heating elements sprayed onto the glass surface during its manufacture (pic. 13.57).
Small breaks in the heating elements can be repaired without removing the rear window.
To check the operation of the heater, start the engine and turn on the rear window defroster.
Connect one test lamp probe to «weight» car, gently touch each heating element with the second probe.
The brightness of the light of the control lamp should increase as the probe moves from the right edge of the heating element to the left. If the test lamp is lit brightly at both ends of the heating element, check that the connection wire to the «weight». All heating elements should be checked in at least two places.
To repair a break in the heating element, it is recommended to purchase a repair kit designed specifically for this purpose.
To eliminate the break, first turn off the heating system and wait a few minutes.
Thoroughly clean the repair area with alcohol or thinner.
Stick strips of adhesive tape on both sides of the repair area. The distance between the strips should be the same as between the heating elements. This can be checked from outside the vehicle.
With a small brush, apply a little silver paint between the strips of tape, overlapping the undamaged area on both sides.
Let the paint dry for 24 hours and spray the repaired area with hot air. At an air temperature of 60°C, the paint will dry in 30 minutes.
Despite the fact that the heater is completely ready for operation, it is recommended not to touch the repair area for 24 hours.