Rear defrost

[jaksdad66]

The rear defrost push button on my 96 Escort LX 1.9L lights up when I push it, but it doesn't stay on. Is there a relay or something that keeps it on? And where would I find it?

[five-oh-H.O.]

hey,
My Wifes 96 escort has the exact same problem. later this week I will attempt to fix the problem. I will let you know what I find out.

[mightymoose_22]

Not sure what you mean...

You push the button and it won't stay down?
It turns on but won't stay on?
Does it work temporarily or not at all?

[jaksdad66]

The button is not designed to stay in, it lights up when you push it, then it (the light) should stay on while the rear defrost is on.

[mightymoose_22]

I will have to go push mine to make certain... but it seems to me that when you push the button it does stay down at least partially. Maybe your switch is just broken? Does the defroster work if you hold the button down or does the light just come on?
Sounds like a simple switch problem.

Yep... just checked it. Mine stays down. Mine is a 94, probably still the same switch. When I push mine down it is a noticable difference from the up position.

[sripvw]

ive got a '95 and my switch broke. there is a little hooked piece of metal on top of the switch that rides in plastic grooves on top. the plastic hold on piece cracked off last winter. could not find new switch in junk yard so took out epoxy and fixed problem. ive got 280,000 miles on my 1.9 and it still rides like it did with 200,000 ha-ha. hope it helps. pretty easy fix

[jaksdad66]

Thanks for all your help!! I'll tear into it this weekend, hopefully it will be an easy fix.

[Bobbywolf]

The little latch tabs on my switch broke too. I got a new switch from the JY for $15. Works great now. If the light comes on, and your defroster works as long as you are holding the button down, then it is the switch itself that has the problem.

[jaksdad66]

Thanks Bobbywolf!!!