Moisture issue

What if my headlights are leaking? What if I see fog in them? What if there is a lot of water in them?

With ANY custom headlight build there is the potential risk of them having a moisture issue. This isn’t a common occurrence, but can happen as with anything custom built – there is a chance of an issue arising.

If this should happen – first determine what the severity of the moisture is. A very light fogging, “waterfalls” or a puddle of water?

For fogging or VERY light fogging, we recommend one of two methods to fix this. The first (if you live in a relatively dry climate) is to pop a back cap off of the housing and park the vehicle with the headlight in direct sunlight for a few hours. This often drys the light out and solves the issue. The next method which is slightly quicker is to remove a back cap and aim a hairdryer on LOW at the opening for approximately 30 minutes (or until the light is completely dried out). These are both highly effective.

Fogging can occur as the result of extreme temperature change between the inside of the lights and the outside air temperature – think of a “greenhouse” effect. This isn’t overly common, but can happen especially during colder winter months.

If you are experiencing a “waterfall” effect or a puddle of water in the light you may have a seal or cap issue. To remedy this on your own (should you choose to do so), we recommend taking the light off the vehicle. Drain as much water as possible and then remove a any & all back caps from the housing. Aim a hairdryer on low at a backside opening and allow the light to dry for approximately 30-45 minutes. Then, heat in your oven on LOW (170 degrees or lower if possible) for approximately 20 minutes. The BACK of the headlight housing should sit on the oven shelf – NOT the front lens portion. Once removed from the oven, squeeze the edges of the light housing at the seam. Allow to cool, re-install on the vehicle and watch for moisture over the next 7 days.

The BACK CAPS on headlights are most often the culprit of water or excessive moisture finding it’s way into the housings. This can happen during installation if space is tight or snug behind the headlight.

ALWAYS ensure the caps are in place, snug and not falling-off of your housings.

If you’re not comfortable with any of these procedures please contact us and we’ll make arrangements with you for the repair of your lights. There may be associated costs with this.

Posted in: Troubleshoot