Rear Defroster Issue

[Caveman]

I bought my 2020 JT used, and I spend a lot of time in warmer climates. After the warranty expired, I discovered that although the rear defroster button lights when I push it, nothing happens with the glass. I checked the fuse and the connections to the heating element, and they were good. I just had the local dealer do a check of the rear defroster, and they confirmed my suspicion that the problem is most likely with the heating element embedded in the rear window glass.

The dealer suggested replacement of the glass, but that is $$$, and I just managed to get the glass to stop leaking by using the silicone hose stuffed into the rear window fix. I am not inclined to go the rear glass replacement route at this point b/c of the expense and the possibility of damage to my hard top. It doesn't look like any of the aftermarket stick-on kits will work with a sliding rear window like the JT has. I'm not seeing any other options. Am I missing any? And has anyone else had this issue?

At this point, I'm thinking a scraper will be my short-term solution, and maybe I'll full embrace the lack of a rear defroster down the line and have a Breezer rear window installed if something happens to the current rear window...

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[Lunentucker]

You could keep an eye out for someone who's selling a used one, or possibly check around the scrapyard market for one that survived a wreck or flood.
I'd also carefully inspect the connector in the pillar for bent or damaged pins.

 

[Hootbro]

 

[Main Line Willys]

I am having the same problem with my rear defroster.
The button lights up, but no heating.
Are your side mirrors warming up? I do not think mine are.

I am still under warrantee, but I have been too busy to take it in.

I was reading on the JL forum about similar issues and the fix was to epoxy the connectors on the class.

I will also add that I have not taken off the rear section of the top, so I don't think it is a bent pin issue.

 

[Buckhorn]

I bought my 2020 JT used, and I spend a lot of time in warmer climates. After the warranty expired, I discovered that although the rear defroster button lights when I push it, nothing happens with the glass. I checked the fuse and the connections to the heating element, and they were good. I just had the local dealer do a check of the rear defroster, and they confirmed my suspicion that the problem is most likely with the heating element embedded in the rear window glass.

The dealer suggested replacement of the glass, but that is $$$, and I just managed to get the glass to stop leaking by using the silicone hose stuffed into the rear window fix. I am not inclined to go the rear glass replacement route at this point b/c of the expense and the possibility of damage to my hard top. It doesn't look like any of the aftermarket stick-on kits will work with a sliding rear window like the JT has. I'm not seeing any other options. Am I missing any? And has anyone else had this issue?

At this point, I'm thinking a scraper will be my short-term solution, and maybe I'll full embrace the lack of a rear defroster down the line and have a Breezer rear window installed if something happens to the current rear window...

Using a meter check for 12 volts at the connector by the rear window. This will tell you if power is getting back there. You can disconnect the connector and check for continuity in the wiring in the glass. It should be very low. If it shows open then the window probably needs replacement.

 

[Caveman]

Thank you all for the replies! When I quizzed the service tech, he did confirm power and ground at the connector, and the recommendation of glass replacement was based on this and checking the resistance of the heating element in the glass.

Keeping an eye open for a used HT had occurred to me, but this one is in such great shape that I'm loathe to swap it out unless I move to somewhere much colder (which is a possibility!).

That's a good question about the heating elements in the mirrors. I'm honestly not sure! I'll have to wait until they frost up and then check that out.

 

[Gvsukids]

and the recommendation of glass replacement was based on this and checking the resistance of the heating element in the glass.

Glass coverage will replace this.

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