rear defrost issue

[Atomb]

Hey everyone,A co-worker of mine has a 2005 and noticed that one of the 'lines' on the rear window was not working (wouldn't melt the ice this past weekend!).Do any of you know where the separation occurs for each of the 'lines'?I'm assuming that power is fed to the back window and somewhere on the pane of glass it gets separated to each 'line'. That way if one of the 'lines' stops working, it's simply a matter of replacing the rear window....that seems too easy though.Would the dealer have to replace anything else? The multi-pronged connection at the bottom of the rear window, etc.?Thanks for the help and for (hopefully) making me look good with some valuable information about my co-worker's vibe!

[kostby]

The copper defrost grid is etched onto the inside surface of the glass. I haven't looked at the Vibe, but there are usually just two raised copper attachments (like those crimp-on connectors) for the entire grid, somewhere under the trim surrounding the window.Of course, the grid is vulnerable to deep scratches from whatever you carry in your Vibe - cargo, pets, passengers with metal... uh, never mind.Several years ago, I used a paint containing metallic silver (and designed for the purpose) to 'repair' my defrost grid.Since it's an 05, I'd guess the 'bumper to bumper warranty' should cover it unless it shows evidence of deep scratches caused by cargo.

[ColonelPanic]

If it's just one line not working, that should be easy enough. Just a loss of continuity somewhere along the line. Where to find it is another story if the break isn't visible. I suppose one could always use a multimeter with continuity tester and keep probing the grid until you find the break.Like Kostby mentioned, there is a rear defroster grid repair kit you can pick up for cheap at many auto parts stores. I had one line stop working on the Cutlass I owned many moons ago and used that stuff. Pretty straightforward, you have a piece in the kit with a line cut through the center that you place on the glass in the area of the break. Then you'll brush on the metallic substance, let it dry, viola. The little template helps you get a solid, even line. It worked pretty good on my old car...I'd say the dealer would attempt something like this before replacing the glass...http://www.permatex.com/auto/a...15067