L33T35T 4Runner

In the rear passanger side window there is something that looks kind of like an antenna. It's only on this side. I've noticed it before but now im curious as to what it is. It's not an FM antenna because there is a stock retractable antenna.

whatever this is goes as two lines for 1/2 of the way, then one of the lines splits off into two lines. I'm sure you know what i'm talking about. what is this?

Thanks

OicnaiC

Do the lines go around most of the window? I think thats a defroster. That is your blindspot window, thats why its only on that side, those yota guys thought of everything when making these vehicles. I'm not 100% sure about this but I'm preaty confident that I'm correct, even though mine has never worked.

L33T35T 4Runner

ya it does go around most of the window... but why not in the middle if it's not a defroster? the lines seem to be the same as the rear defroster on teh rear window. hmm... i never see that window when i'm driving.

DH6twinotter

I'm pretty sure I know what you are talking about. A friend of mine has it on his '91. He doesn't know what is is though. It looks like some sort of side window defrosting thing, but that doesn't make much sense. Maybe it has something to do with an optional phone antanna or alarm. Beats me. I've been curious on that too. My best guess is something for defrosting.

Well, have fun.
DH6twinotter

2k4runner

my 2000 has this same thing, so did my 95.
I believe it is an additional antenna.

OicnaiC

If its an antenna why does it wrap around the window? I'm preaty sure that its a defogger. I check that window all the time when I'm driving just to make sure i'm not going to crush some little compact when I change lanes. It only makes sense that is only on that one side. Have you ever tried to look out the driverside rear window while driving? You would have to be an owl. You should try it out sometime get that window fogged up and see if it works.

Corey

iTrader: (1)

It's called a diversity antenna, or something like that.
I think it helps in fringe areas where FM is hard to get.

But is is an antenna for sure.

OicnaiC

Thats wack! no wonder I always thought it was broken, It never did what I thought it did:pat:
Now I feel kinda dumb

ALBPM

Yup, it's an extra antenna......

I had one on my 93' Runner. I don't think it ever really helped reception that much.

Paul

L33T35T 4Runner

"now ya know" hehe, thanks

i spent some quality time in my car today... noticed some stuff ive never noticed before, like now the ceiling gets higher in the trunk, where the sun roof doesnt need space to be stored.

Sludge

The galss is called Rear Quarter Glass and they come with and without an antenna for your radio.

runninclean

The diversity antenna is helpful in urban areas where frequencies can cross. The radio changes between the two antennas depending on which one has the better reception. So it's not technically a "booster" antenna it can just help you out if it is getting better reception.