April 6, 2025
After almost 20 years and a winter drive to Fairbanks, Alaska, the little microswitch in the back glass release switch stopped working. Here’s how I fixed it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-_5ZEKN-F4
Parts:
Tools:
- 10mm socket
- 13mm socket
- 15/16” (about 24mm) socket
- Big pair of pliers
- Wire cutters
General procedure:
- Pry off the plastic cover
- Remove the 13mm nut to holding the wiper arm in place. Give it a little oil and a jiggle to loosen the wiper arm from the splines.
- Remove the 15/16" nut to to remove the handle from the wiper assembly.
- Remove the plastic handle. If it's stuck, use penetrating oil on the bronze bushing and twist.
- If needed, cut the wires and short them together to pop the rear glass open.
- Unplug the switch from the car’s wiring harness. If need be, use the 10mm socket to remove the wiper assembly.
- Reassemble. I used a little bit of grease to waterproof the interface between the new switch and the glass.