Like the broken Defroster Tab, this problem was found during my Prepare for Winter Checklist. Having only a few lines of the defroster working is worse to me than not having it work at all. It needs to be fixed! Never fear, its easy using this Permatex kit. This kit has the supplies to fix damaged grid lines, as well as reglue a busted defogger tab. For this project, I’m only going to use the grid line repair materials.
The first step it to identify which lines need to be fixed. If its a frosty morning, this is as easy as turning on the defroster and marking the ones that don’t work. If you need to get a little more technical, you can grab a test light, and test each line to see if the light comes on. Make sure you have it connected to a good ground. If the line is good, the test light should light up. Once you find the break you can proceed with the repair.
The kit includes a paper template to mask off the broken grid line. I decided to use masking tape because I had several lines to repair and the kit only comes with one mask. After masking the break, you can grab the tiny bottle of repair compound and after shaking well, begin applying it to the break in the grid. The instructions say to apply 3 coats, or as many as needed so that you cannot see light through the repaired area. I applied 3 coats. Now let it dry for 30 minutes before removing the masking. Now we have to wait 24 hours before turning on the defroster. I didn’t take any chances here and waited the full 24 hours.
With our test light in hand, I turned on the defroster and tested the repaired area. The light is now lighting up on all lines. I can feel the window getting warm and am confident that this repair is good.
I’m really happy with this kit from Permatex. I want to repeat that this is not sponsored at all by Permatex. I purchased this kit myself. I wanted to find a kit that worked, that anyone can use to fix up their rear defroster. This kit does a great job.
Check out the video of the process.
— Affilliate Links to Recommended Products —
Permatex Complete Rear Defroster Repair Kit – https://amzn.to/2PgO3G2
Lisle Test Light – https://amzn.to/33RlT9T
Fluke Multimeter (newer than mine) – https://amzn.to/34YST0U
Do you need to reglue a loose defroster tab? Here’s how to do it.
