How do you test a rear window defroster?

[Guest hogpie]

Can anyone tell me how to test a rear window defroster to tell if it is good or not. I would thing some sort of ohm reading would be the indicator but I have no idea what it should be or if there is another way....thanks....steve

[conkitchen]

Can anyone tell me how to test a rear window defroster

You can use a regular 12V test light by grounding the one end to the chasis and runing the pointer over the lines ( with the switch ON of course)inside on the window. A good connection will make the light work. If this defroster is original, chances are it is just not conducting from years of baking in the sun and or a broken line in series.

First check the switch and fuse to see it you are getting and sending voltage to and through the switch in the dash. Next check at the wire lead at the glass. If you got juice ther but not in the grid on the window, you need a new grid. They are made as after maket parts and can be found most anywhere.

good luck

[74tiiGolf]

Can't you just check for continuity on the grid itself? If there's nothing there then all the other stuff is moot....

Matthew

[conkitchen]

Can't you just check for continuity on the grid itself? If there's nothing there then all the other stuff is moot....

Matthew

Yep!

who needs a rear defroster anyways. :-)

[WBeaumont]

Get all hot and steamy inside (you've seen Titanic haven't you?) then turn it on (the defroster that is) and if that bit clears quicker than everywhere else it works.

Thats also a hell of a lot more fun that testing circuits.

[frank]

Anyone know how to remove the grid? I tried to scrape it off with a razor blade with little success.