Rear Defroster not working

[jpgordon24]

So I just got through the first real "rain" here in sunny california and I got the chance to try out the defroster (rear). When i push the button it lights up but the defroster never clears the rear window. Anyone experience this or fix it??

 

[the_dingman]

Open up the tailgate, chances are one of the wires fell off.

 

[bishopsRobes]

Does your window clear at all? Or is it totally dead?

I just bought my 1988 about a month ago and, like you, the rear defrost light comes on but window never clears. However, it does just barely defrost around the lines in the middle of the window.

So I guess the window is getting power, but I'm wondering if this is common for older 4runners. Do rear window elements wear out over time? And is there a way to fix without replacing window?

 

[mpleitez]

93 4runner

Same thing happens to mine light comes on but doesn't defrost at all. you said check if the wires came loose. Where exactly should i be checking??

 

[4 R]

Does your window clear at all? Or is it totally dead?

I just bought my 1988 about a month ago and, like you, the rear defrost light comes on but window never clears. However, it does just barely defrost around the lines in the middle of the window.

So I guess the window is getting power, but I'm wondering if this is common for older 4runners. Do rear window elements wear out over time? And is there a way to fix without replacing window?

My 98 is the same way

 

[A.Wilson013]

Behind the drivers seat in the side panel there is a cylinder shaped relay which also is for the defrost. Test to see if there is power going TO and FROM that. If there is power to and from the cylinder, check the voltages on the actual grid of the window. If there is no power there, then obviously the disconnect is after the cylinder, and before the grid.

Check where the grid gets it power on the base of the window. If no power there, trace the wires about 1ft. from the window, as that is a VERY common place for it to fail.

If none of that helps, send me a message. I am tired of typing for now.

 

[A.Wilson013]

However, it does just barely defrost around the lines in the middle of the window.

It is VERY common for the grids to crack in the windows of 1st gen 4Runners. As far as I know replacing the window is the only fix.

 

[fourwd1]

If even one of the wires in the glass works, your getting power there.
Check every inch of all of them looking for a break. They can sometimes be repaired, depending on the extent of the problem.

 

[m_wolf1]

Can someone post a picture of where this side panel is located and how to access it?

Thanks,
-v

 

[fourwd1]

The defogger relay is in the fuse box in the drivers side kick panel (at your left foot), should be 2nd from the top on the right side of the fuse box.