Rear Defogger Problem
10-22-12, 04:17 PM
#1
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Rear Defogger Problem
My rear defogger used to work, but all of a sudden the light doesn't come on any more when I turn the switch on. It's an '83 by the way. I checked the fuse and it looks okay. I'm guessing it's not a problem with the defroster itself because I think the light would come on and nothing would happen if that was broken. But neither the light nor the defroster turns on. What should I check next?
10-23-12, 08:34 AM
#2
It's almost definitely the switch. I had the same problem on both of my 83's. The switch is easily disassembled, just clean the contacts and bent the rocker mechanism slightly so that more pressure is applied to the contacts when you turn it on.
Sorry I don't have any pics, but it is pretty simple to fix once you have it all apart in front of you
If you want to see if that is the problem before actually attempting to fix it, just remove the switch and put a jumper (small piece of wire works) in it's place. That will tell you if the rest of the system is working...
Sorry I don't have any pics, but it is pretty simple to fix once you have it all apart in front of you
If you want to see if that is the problem before actually attempting to fix it, just remove the switch and put a jumper (small piece of wire works) in it's place. That will tell you if the rest of the system is working...
10-24-12, 08:16 AM
#4
Yeah it just pops into place. If you remove the shifter surround (just gently pull it upwards, just some snap in clips hold it) you can usually get your fingers behind there enough to push the switch out. It also helps to remove the tray above the switches (assuming you have that tray and not the stereo EQ) that also gives you access to the back of the switch to push it out. Just be gentle on the 30 year old plastic and it should come out fine
10-24-12, 02:57 PM
#5
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Thanks so much for the help. It spontaneously started working again this morning after I wiggled the switch holder last night (without removing it). If I have more problems with it I'll definitely take it out and do what you suggested. Thanks again.
10-28-12, 04:41 PM
#7
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1st gen rear hatch
I went to look for a rear replacement hatch for my '85, and the wiring was on the left, not the right like mine, are they different form the early years and the 84-85?
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