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Home >> Suzuki >> 2003 >> Vitara 4D Utility, RWD, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Body & Frame >> Power Windows - Power Mirrors - Heated Glass/Defoggers >> Repair Instructions >> Rear Window Defogger Timer Relay (If Equipped) Inspection >> Rear Window Defogger Wire Inspection and Repair >> Inspection
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Rear Window Defogger Wire Inspection and Repair: Inspection

NOTE:
  • When cleaning rear window glass, use a dry cloth to wipe it along wire direction.
  • When cleaning glass, do not use detergent or abrasive-containing glass cleaner.
  • When measuring wire voltage, use a tester with negative probe wrapped with a tin foil which should be held down on wire by finger pressure.
Fig 1: Testing Rear Window Defogger Wire
G03266589Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
  1. Checking wire damage.
    1. Turn main switch ON.
    2. Turn defogger switch ON.
    3. Use a voltmeter to check voltage at the center of each heat wire, as shown.

      If measured voltage is 10V, wire must be damaged between its center and positive end. If voltage is zero, wire must be damaged between its center and ground.

    DAMAGE CHECK FOR DEFOGGER WIRE

    Voltage Criteria
    (A): Approx. 5V Good (No break in wire)
    (A), (B): Approx. 10V or 0V Broken wire
    Fig 2: Checking Defogger Wire For Damage
    G03266590Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
  2. Locating damage in wire.
    1. Touch voltmeter positive (+) lead to heat wire positive terminal end.
    2. Touch voltmeter negative (-) lead with a foil strip to heat wire positive terminal end, then move it along wire to the negative terminal end.
    3. The place where voltmeter fluctuates from zero to several volts is where there is damage.
    NOTE: If heat wire is free from damage, voltmeter should indicate 12V at heat wire positive terminal end and its indication should decrease gradually toward zero at the other terminal (ground).
    Fig 3: Locating Damage In Rear Window Defogger Wire
    G03266591Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.