Xsara Rear Window Heating Issue

I had something similar happen with my Xsara (not sure about the year). Turns out, a heavily discharged or defective battery can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins, including problems with the rear window heater. It's like trying to run your house on a nearly dead flashlight battery – things just don't work right!

Interesting! I wouldn't have thought of that. But the car starts fine, so I assumed the battery was okay. How did you figure out it was the battery, and what did you have to do to fix it?

Even if it starts, the battery might not be providing enough juice for everything else, especially during cold starts. My mechanic ran a proper diagnostic and confirmed the battery wasn't holding a charge like it should. Best bet? Get your battery properly tested. If it's weak, replacing it might just solve your rear window and windshield heating issues. Otherwise, you'll be chasing ghosts! If replacing the battery doesn't solve the problem, visit a workshop!

Thanks a bunch for the insight! I had my battery tested, and you were spot on – it was heavily discharged! Ended up replacing it, and the rear window heating is working perfectly now. Cost me 290€ at the local shop, but worth it to have that defroster back. Cheers!