1997 Chevy Cavalier Rear Window defroster

1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
121,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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ALBO1
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Although the dash light comes on, my rear window defroster doesn't work. It's been this way since a bad snow and ice storm last year. I cleaned the inside rear window and checked the two electrical clips and could see no corrosion on them. I am at a loss as to what could be wrong - I checked the fuses and also checked the breakers and all checks out good there.
Please help - thank you
Sep 19, 2008 at 7:08 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Need to pull the switch out of the dash and get a test light. Should have power (key on) at the orange and brown wires.If not recheck fuses (Rdefog, HVAC) if power turn switch on, Purple should have power, if not switch is probably bad. Black is the ground. There is a timer circuit in the switch that could have burned out
Sep 19, 2008 at 7:57 AM
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ALBO1
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Thanx Jack - it makes sense on the timer as I used the defroster repeatedly in that miseralbe storm. I don't know how to get the switch out myself, but will see if the local repair guy can do it. My thanx again.
Sep 19, 2008 at 8:44 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 11,533 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Glad to be of help
Sep 19, 2008 at 10:02 AM
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