For 1990-2009 cars

# Rear Window Defogger Terminal Detached From the Rear Window

Subject: | Rear Window Defogger Terminal Detached From the Rear Window -- Replace the Rear Window Defogger Terminal

Models: | 1996-2000 Saturn S-Series Sedans -- 1997-2000 Saturn S-Series Coupes

### Condition:

The rear window defogger terminal detaches from the rear window.

### Cause:

The terminal detaches during removal of surrounding components or during cleaning of the rear window.

### Correction:

Re-solder the rear window defogger terminal to the rear window.

### Procedure:

1. Remove the rear window trim finish panel.

• | On 1996-1999 vehicles, refer to Rear Window Trim Finish Panel removal procedure in the Interior Trim section of the appropriate model year Body Repair Service Manual.

• | On 200 model year vehicles, refer to Rear Window Trim Finish Panel removal procedure in the Interior Trim section of the S-Series Body/Electrical Vol. II Service Manual.

2. Using pliers, remove the detached rear window defogger terminal from the wiring harness connector.
3. Inspect the detached rear window defogger terminal. If any glass particles remain attached to the terminal, the rear glass must be replaced. Failure to replace the rear glass may result in breakage of the glass during future temperature changes.
4. Using pliers, hold the new rear window defogger terminal P/N 21170766 against the rear window in the place where the original defogger terminal was attached.

Important: Do not add solder to the rear defogger terminal. When heat is applied to the top surface of the terminal, the bottom surface of the terminal will melt and attach to the rear window defogger grid.

5. Using a soldering iron, place heat on the rear defogger terminal until it becomes hot enough to begin melting solder.
6. Pull the heat away from the terminal and continue to hold the terminal in place for 2 minutes to allow the solder between the terminal and rear window to harden.
7. Install the rear window trim panel.

• | On 1996-1999 vehicles, refer to Rear Window Trim Finish Panel installation procedure in the Interior Trim section of the appropriate model year Body Repair Service Manual.

• | On 200 model year vehicles, refer to Rear Window Trim Finish Panel installation procedure in the Interior Trim section of the S-Series Body/Electrical Vol. II Service Manual.

8. Connect the rear window defogger wiring harness connector to the rear window defogger terminal.
9. Function the rear window defogger to ensure proper operation.

### Parts Requirements:

Part Number | Description
--- | ---
21170766 | Terminal -- Rear Wdw Defgr

Claim Information: | To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System as Follows:
--- | ---
-- | Case Type | Description | Labor Operation Code | Time
-- | VW | Install Rear Window Defogger Terminal | Z4038 | 0.5 hrs