Rep Power: 0

I have a 2002 Civic EX & the rear defrost isn't working. When I press the button to turn it on it lights up, but the window doesn't clear at all in any area (which leads me to suspect that it's not a problem with the window grid.) It also appears that the connections on the sides of the window are intact. Also, the fuse appears to be good (but I have not tested it beyond visual inspection.) I was told that if the fuse was bad, the button on the console would not light either; is that true? If it is the switch that's bad, where is it located? Is there any other specific troubleshooting I should try? I'm a novice, so please be kind & patient with me.
Thank you!

 
Rep Power: 0

If you have comprehensive glass coverage (with no deductible) on your auto insurance, throw a rock at it and get a new piece of glass for free.

 
Rep Power: 813

lol. does the radio reception sound good? check the coil assembly under the rear window in the trunk. its a black box with copper coils in it (TDK). feel if its getting hot. if the amber light comes on when pressing the button, chances are its getting power. but it could be a bad coil assembly.

 
Rep Power: 0

I checked & discovered that the rear defroster relay was MISSING! Since those don't just fall out, I can only assume that the last time I took it in for service at the stealership for a new thermostat & a coolant flush, they pulled it. I've replaced it & the defroster works partially (about half of the grid defrosts.) Is there any connection between the thermostat, coolant & rear defroster?

 
Rep Power: 309

You are correct that relay did not fall out.

The upper 1/4th or so is the antenna and will not heat directly. If you have individual elements of the grid out they may be damaged (open in conductive coating from damage)

 
Rep Power: 0

Thanks, I will investigate to see if there is damage to the grid. Meanwhile, I'm still not getting consistent hot air after the thermostat replacement & coolant flush. I'm now very hesitant to take it back to the dealer... Any idea why I'm still not getting consistent hot air?

 
Rep Power: 236

Bad heater core. It's a major pain-in-the-azz if you do it yourself as you have to take the dash off, then you have remove the whole heater assembly, then you have to take the assembly apart to get to the heater core.