Condensation in headlight

[navybob]

Recently I noticed condensation inside the passenger side headlight assembly. I am assuming this is supposed to be a sealed unit and the condensation indicates a leak somewhere in mine.

Has anyone else had this problem and is there a way to fix this (besides replacing the entire headlight assembly)?

Thanks,

Bob

[swingdancr]

It is supposed to be a sealed unit. You might check the rubber seals at the back of the headlight on the connections. If one is not completely seated it's possible for moisture to enter there. Aside from that, I know people that have used model cement to fully seal all seams around headlights with good success.

As a temporary fix, you can remove the headlight from the car and leave it in the house to dry. Just remove all bulbs and covers to allow it to air out.

[navybob]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll check out the rubber seals. But I suspect I am going to have to take the unit out completely to fix it (or replace it).

[hobie237]

Whatever you do, do NOT use a heat gun to try to dry the moisture out. It is likely to end with cracking the lens. Ask me how I know.

[navybob]

hobie237,

Thanks for the tip - and I think I will spare you the pain that may be caused by asking how you know the result of using a hair dryer.

Based on your knowledge of this problem do you have any recommendations for a safe and effective way to dry out the headlight assembly? Also, do you know if there is any common location on the headlight where the leak occurs?

Since the weather is warming up now, I was thinking about removing the headlight assembly and let it bake in the sun for several hours. What do you think?

Thanks.

[hobie237]

hobie237,

Thanks for the tip - and I think I will spare you the pain that may be caused by asking how you know the result of using a hair dryer.

Based on your knowledge of this problem do you have any recommendations for a safe and effective way to dry out the headlight assembly? Also, do you know if there is any common location on the headlight where the leak occurs?

Since the weather is warming up now, I was thinking about removing the headlight assembly and let it bake in the sun for several hours. What do you think?

Thanks.

Well, for me it was a Miata turn signal, and not a hair dryer, but an actual heat gun. :eek:

Letting it bake in the sun for a few hours would be a great idea, but you're just going to get more condensation in there. I'm not sure of the construction of your headlights specifically, but somewhere there is a seal that is leaking. If you can locate the failed seal, you can either replace it or just make do with some RTV sealant (that's what I often do for things like this- easier and cheaper usually.)

I would suggest that if the vehicle is under warranty to take it into the dealership for a look. You may come away with a new headlight for nothing.