Hello Scotty, Corolla 2003 1.6, manual transmission, with 140,000 miles.
I noticed that my rear defogger was not working, so I took the panels off and discovered that one of the metal connection points to the glass had broken off. I tested the connection, and there are 12 volts in between the connections.
There is a somewhat poor aftermarket tint on the rear windshield which was on the car when I bought it (I bought the car used obviously).
I have a feeling that whoever installed the tint broke the defogger connection as well.
I have 2 questions:
1- How should I fix the broken connection? (Since I can not solder on to the glass)
2- Will the defogger potentially melt the tint if it starts working again?
The tint *should* be heat resistant, but you can test it with a hair dryer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HePEtJA5HGM
I had a rear defogger wire come loose on an AMC Hornet years ago and fixed it using a conductive cement.
https://www.amazon.com/Permatex-21351-Electrically-Conductive-Defogger/dp/B000HBGKWE
This looks like the best idea. never heard of this product. {pear}:happy:
I ordered a pack, and applied it as instructed.
It is reconnected now, but it is not a great connection; there are 150 ohms of resistance.
I can't tell if it works or not, though if it does, it doesn't do much.
there is definitely some current when turned on.
Sorry it didn't work out, I recall it worked OK on my old Hornet but that was a long time ago. Of course a conductive epoxy is going to have higher resistance than a solid copper connection, but 150 ohms does sound excessive.
Hi,
Rear heated windscreens don't usually give much heat out, just enough to demist or melt frost. however I cant speak for the quality of the tint.
If I were you, and I really need to demist my rear screen then Id be looking for a replacement from a used car parts dealer there should be plenty out there as your car is a 2003.
