Rear Window Defroster Indicator

Dashboard Warning Lights Caution (amber)

Can you still drive? Yes, normally

Who can fix it? DIY with some experience

Typical repair time 15 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 50 to 800

What it means

Shown as a rectangle with three wavy upward arrows, usually amber on the button itself or in the cluster, this light means the heater lines in the rear window are on to clear fog or dew. It is an on indicator, not a fault; on most cars it switches off by itself after a few minutes to save power, and on many cars it heats the side mirrors too. It does not normally glow at key-on unless you switch it on.

Symptoms3

The indicator lights after pressing the button and goes out after several minutes.
Fog clears from the rear window gradually, starting at the lines.
When faulty: the indicator is on but the glass does not warm, or some strips stay fogged.

Possible causes5

Switched on by the driver (normal).
One or more heater lines broken by scratches, harsh cleaning or a sticker.
Detached soldered connector tab at the edge of the glass.
Blown fuse or failed defroster relay.
Faulty switch or climate control unit (less common).

How to diagnose4

Switch it on with the engine running and feel the inside of the glass for warmth after a few minutes.
See whether particular horizontal strips stay fogged, which points to broken lines there.
Check the connector tabs on both sides of the glass, and the fuse as the owner's manual shows.
At a workshop: measure voltage across the grid and locate the break along a line with a voltmeter.

How to fix5

Refit or replace the fuse with the correct rating.
Replace the relay or switch if it is faulty.
Repair broken lines with a conductive repair compound made for defroster grids.
Re-solder or replace the connector tab.
Replace the rear glass if damage is widespread, then confirm the whole area heats.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The low end is a fuse or relay; the cost rises for a soldered tab or several line repairs, and replacing the glass can go beyond this range on some cars.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Why does the indicator turn off by itself?

Most cars cut the defroster after a few minutes because it draws a lot of current. You can switch it on again if needed.

Is it useful in summer?

Yes. It clears dew and fog that form on the rear glass when the inside and outside temperatures differ, such as early in the morning or in humid weather.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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