In recent years, car manufacturers in Spain have been actively implementing various technological solutions aimed at increasing comfort and safety for drivers. One such feature is the rear window defroster, which can be found in almost all modern models.
Heated glass is a special design in which thin metal wires or conductive-coated layers are embedded. These elements are placed between layers of glass and connected to the vehicle’s electrical system. When activated by a separate button on the dashboard, current flows through them, generating heat.
The main purpose of this system is to quickly eliminate fogging or ice on the glass, which is especially relevant during Spanish winters, when temperature fluctuations and humidity can significantly impair visibility. Thanks to even heating, the driver gets a clear view through the rearview mirror without having to wait for the interior to warm up or use the climate control system.
The symbols indicating the heating function differ for the front and rear windows. Usually, it is depicted as a rectangle with wavy arrows pointing upward. For the rear window, the symbol is typically straight, while for the front window it has a curved line—making it easy to distinguish between them on the control panel.
If the conductive traces on the glass are damaged, it is not always necessary to replace the entire part. Special repair kits are available for sale, which include conductive paint, stencils, brushes, and sometimes cleaning products. With these tools, the system’s functionality can be restored, avoiding a costly replacement.
The cost of replacing heated glass depends on the car make, the complexity of the work, and the materials used. On average, for passenger cars in Spain, prices range from 100 to 300 euros, but for premium models or commercial vehicles the amount can reach 500 euros. At the same time, self-repair with a kit is significantly cheaper.
The use of rear window heating has become standard in most new cars, which has significantly improved road safety across the country. Drivers note that this feature is especially useful during periods of rain and fog, when visibility drops sharply.
