How to Service a Rear-Window Defogger in a Subaru Outback

All Subaru Outback vehicles come standard with rear-window defoggers, but a malfunctioning rear-window defogger can be a hassle and a hazard on the road. Instead of taking your vehicle in for service, however, do some quick and easy home repairs first for basic solutions. You can service a rear-window defogger at home in just 30 minutes using a $15 repair kit available at any auto parts retailer.

Instructions

1

Locate the fuse box in the cabin of the vehicle. Consult your owner's manual for a complete map of fuses if necessary, and check to see that the defogger fuse is in tact. Replace if necessary.

2

Perform service on the window itself when the temperature outside is 50 degrees F or higher. If the temperature is lower than 50 degrees F, park your Subaru Outback in a garage with central heating or a space heat positioned near the rear of the vehicle.

3

Inspect the grid for visible breaks in the defogger grid lines, or use a multimeter to track the lines and note any inconsistencies in the current.

4

Clean any areas that need to be patched using the alcohol preparation. Patch using the stencil and conductive paint provided. Allow to dry for 24 hours before attempting to use the defogger.

5

Inspect the electrical tabs for broken filaments or loose connections. Detach tabs and brush lightly with sandpaper. Clean the tabs and contact areas with the alcohol preparation.

6

Knead the adhesive packet to prepare the adhesive. Apply to the tab or the contact area, insert the tab and hold in place for 2 minutes while a bond forms. Allow 24 hours to dry completely before using.