Rear Defrost?

[Aero]

I just bought my first 4runner! 1990 V6 with a young engine and rust growing on the thing like moss...which isn't uncommon in Canada.
I can't seem to fix the rear defrost. The switch up front works and lights up but the back window stays fogged the whole time. Any help and advise would be great.

 

[mikes4runner]

This may sound silly but....Rear defrosters heat the ice or snow build up to make it easier to remove, not remove fogged window you need a blower for that like up front.

Or did I miss something.

 

[slowginjoe]

the rear defroster, if working, will clear the fogged rear window. the clearing starts with the outline of the defroster element and then slowly looks like horizontal min-blinds until the whole glass is clear. try checking the fuse.

 

[Cleric]

If it's working, you should be able to feel the warmth by touching the window. If you have already checked the obvious stuff (fuse, wires, etc...) it is not uncommon for the switch to stop working even if the light still lights up.

Use a voltmeter to check for current at the rear window. If it is getting power when the switch is working, you know the problem is actually somewhere within the unit itself.

 

[Aero]

After opening up the back gate I found that one of the wires connecting to the glass had a loose connection, looked connected but wasn't. Fixed that up and its working perfectly now. What lube is best for this power window mech. Is white grease good?

 

[Carl White]

White Lithium grease works well on the mechanism. Don't use a spray though as it can get on the glass...makes a mess!