I just bought a 2001 Camaro in which the rear defroster is not working. When I push the button, the light doesn't even come on. I checked the fuse (and replaced it just to be sure), but no change. Any ideas on how to troubleshoot/repair this issue?

 

Best I can say is grab your multi-meter and start tracing wires. My nickle is on the switch, but don't throw money at parts without diagnosis.

 

I've got the same problem with mine. The drawback is replacing the switch with something generic costs as much as replacing the entire HVAC panel. You can find them on eBay for about $30 shipped usually. The other option is to go ahead and check the wiring.

I just pulled the HVAC on mine, and it's basically a replace the whole thing only type situation. The button itself is housed inside the plastic that is the main panel for the HVAC. You can't just slip it off or swap it out, so you have to do the entire thing.

 

The problem did indeed turn out to be the switch. Dealer wanted $230 and change for a new one, so I took chernabog's advice and picked up a used one from eBay for around $40. Works great now. Thanks everyone.

 

I know this is an old thread, but I wanted to add some info that is very hard to find anywhere. If you are at the point that you know it is the switch in the HVAC panel, soave yourself some dough and don't buy a used unit that will probably be close to quitting. (It seems like a normal issue) You can buy the relay on the defroster control board from Mouser for $3. Unsolder the old one and solder a new one in. I am including photos on the HVAC panel in various stages of being apart along with a close up of the board, so you can look up the relay number on Google. The relay number is 56ND12-W