Smoke270

Had the same problem a few months ago. Dealership replaced the rear slider window under the bumper to bumper warranty. '11 Lariat screw

Ynot4me2

2010 XLT SCREW, just started to have the same problem but no more warranty left. I don't really need the rear window defroster but I do use the side mirror defroster a lot. Does anyone know of a way that I can complete the circuit so the system comes on for just the mirrors? I don't really want to spend $400+ to fix the problem.

soaringfalcon

iTrader: (1)

I think the issue is with the contacts on the sliding window not engaging properly.
If you are out of warranty you might try cleaning the contacts and resetting the tension on the springs to see if that fixes the issue.

If you do not have a rear slider, you might want to take a conductive paint pen (Autozone has them) and go over all of the traces with it.

Otherwise, you might be able to use the mirror only option, if you disconnect the rear defroster altogether. Depending on the module that you have, it might work.


Good luck.

Ynot4me2

Yes I have the slider and have went thru all the traces with the pen. I'll clean the contacts and reset the tension on them. All of the post I've seen so far seems to point that the slider contacts.


unless I'm missing something, If I disconnect the rear window defroster, wouldn't this be the same as the system seeing the circuit as open and not work?


Thanks again all.

soaringfalcon

iTrader: (1)

I think the issue is that the module is detecting a different resistance value than it is expecting, causing the fault status and the defroster not getting power. Disconnecting the rear defrost will return no resistance value.

It appears that on some trucks no resistance value = no rear defroster installed, and the defroster comes on for the windows only. While on other trucks the Defroster is expected and if no resistance value is returned, it will not operate.

My guess is to try to disconnect it and see what happens. Best case defroster comes on for the mirrors, worst case, you are still in the same situation.

Masi1926

I'm dealing with this myself. Just waiting for my appointment. Replacing the entire rear slider just because the defrost is dead.
Now the tech told me, even tho my rear defroster wasn't working, my mirrors still were. Actually a few degrees warmer than normal, but not an issue.
So if you can test your mirrors to see if they're working, you can, if you want, leave it be.
I almost considered the same, with hearing that windows have leaked after, or the slider has issues.
I am going to take pictures, because one good scratch and I'll be bullsh!t.

Ynot4me2

Looks like we're replying to each other on 2 different threads.
I agree Masitile, replacing the entire rear window with slider and all is outrageous not to mention $$$$. I don't even want to know how much it would cost up here in Canada.
So this weekend, if the wife gives me a little break from the Honey to do list, I'll slip in the garage and test if the mirrors do still heat, then cleaning the tabs and reseating them, then disconnecting the tabs all together. I've got the XLT so the rear window defroster was an option at an additional cost.


Thanks again you all. I'll report back my findings.

Masi1926

No problem, my friend.

Raven2210

Just an FYI. Some people who have had the rear defrost issue on the older windows have also experienced the windows exploding when the defrost does work. The problem is the whole window which is why Ford will replace the whole thing. Mine is out of warranty so I have decided to just live without it versus popping my window.

Gman537

OK, here's my story regarding this issue. 2011 F150 FX4.
The defroster began intermittently failing about 6 months ago. I also had another issue with the fan motor not associated with this issue. I looked up this forum and read all of your comments and issues with Ford. I learned a lot from these posts, i.e. the issue is the way the defroster is made in the window as one piece and how often it fails.
I called my local dealer/service department and advised them I have the premium extended warranty (ESP) covering the vehicle bumper to bumper for another 3 years. I told them the issue and they said bring it in for a diagnosis, which I did. They needed to order a part for the other issue, but told me the issue with the defroster was not a covered one. I showed them the contract which specifically covers ALL electrical components of the rear window defroster. The service manager was an *****. he tried to say maybe a rat ate the wiring or I did something. I had to come back another day (today) to fix the other issue, so I went home and called Ford Customer Care. They said yes, the defroster problem for which a TSB has been issued is covered. They gave me a case number and said they would call the dealership and advise them. I called them to schedule the other repair and asked about the window. They tried to say I had installed an "aftermarket" radio in the truck and that made the warranty null. I have not installed anything in the truck. The radio is factory premium Sony system.
I went to this forum page and printed out every post pertaining to this problem, including the one where one of you discussed the Ohm readings. I went to the dealer today with 23 pages of printouts from this forum and another forum from a glass repair page on the same subject. After repairing the other problem they came to me and told me I was correct, the problem is in the glass and it needs to be replaced but is not covered. Once again (the 5th or 6th time) I showed them the contract. I called FCC who again told me it was covered, but when they called the service manager they came back on the line and told me it was not covered according to the service manager! I read the FCC adviser the contract, which, again specifically covers the defroster issue. The service person I was dealing directly with came out and told me he agreed with me. He got on the phone with FCC who transferred him to ESP (extended service protection). During this, the service manager (Dick) called ESP and they gave him the word. FIX IT! He got the required code and agreed to replace the window and contacts for my $100 deductible.
Bottom line. Do your homework. Be persistent. Come armed with knowledge and printouts from forums such as this. be nasty if necessary.
Thanks to this forum my problem is scheduled to be fixed at their expense!!