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Moisture inside headlights

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Old 04-16-2020, 08:11 PM
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Helimini
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Default Moisture inside headlights





is this normal to have condensation inside head lights and tail lights after driving in the rain?
Old 04-16-2020, 08:13 PM
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Bxstr
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Yes normal, since they are vented.
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Old 04-16-2020, 08:31 PM
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Thanks, I’m not use to seeing vented head lights.
Old 04-17-2020, 12:04 PM
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Dr.Bill
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Hey, at least they don't get mold inside like McLaren.
Old 04-17-2020, 04:49 PM
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Maverick787
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Thought head lights were sealed I’ve never had moisture in any of my Porsche head lights.
Old 04-17-2020, 05:21 PM
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flyjets
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Really this is news to me they are sealed the headlights. I would take it back to Porsche there very expensive and its not normal.

Have no idea about tail lights.

Ian
Old 04-17-2020, 07:21 PM
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This might help... I realize all cars are manufactured differently so this is not Porsche specific material, but rather a theory on what you may be experiencing.
________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________

http://knowhow.napaonline.com/moistu...e-replacement/

Moisture in headlights can be a frustrating problem to deal with. Not only does that fogginess affect the amount of light the unit projects, but it can also cause corrosion over time inside the assembly. How does moisture get in there, and what can you do about it? Check out these tips for dealing with a foggy headlight.

Ventilation = Condensation

Moisture in headlights is quite simply a matter of science at work. Since most headlights generate heat, they need to be ventilated, which means that they feature small vents that can suck in moisture when the car is turned off. If the outer lens cools more quickly than the air inside the headlight unit, it can cause condensation. This explains why you most often encounter condensation in the morning after your car has been parked overnight. Sometimes, a crack in the housing itself or bad headlight seals can also allow moisture to creep in.

What Can You Do About It?

Usually, when you turn the headlights on, the heat causes the moisture to evaporate. It can also evaporate on its own over the course of the day, as the sun warms things up enough to do the same job. Driving the car can also help, as it allows air to pass through the vents in the light housing and clear out the moisture, much like running the defroster in your car’s cabin clears the windshield.

It’s worth checking to make sure that your headlight vents aren’t blocked, as this can lead to persistent moisture and fogging issues. Insects, road debris and spider webs can all block vents. You might also want to consider spraying compressed air through the vents in order to help clear the moisture more quickly.

Is It Time for a Replacement?

If you’re seeing more than a normal amount of moisture in your headlights, or if you’ve noticed more water inside the housing after a rain storm, you could be dealing with a cracked headlight or a problem with the rubber gaskets that seal it to the body. Most of the time, gaskets can be replaced individually, but if the headlight housing is cracked, then you’ll most likely have to replace the entire unit.
Old 04-17-2020, 07:30 PM
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Maverick787
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Headlights zero moisture should occur
Old 04-17-2020, 07:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Maverick787
Headlights zero moisture should occur
Are you referencing this as a Porsche statement only or all cars?

Reason I ask is this...I remember in 2014 when I purchased a brand new Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. Had 10 miles on it. Drove it home first time and there was moisture in the LED headlights. My heart sank, how could this happen right after I bought it. Took it right back and they said completely normal. Kept that car four years, zero issues, wonderful car with loads of power w/ V8 Hemi, and never had one issue with the LED headlight which at times would indicate condensation.
Old 04-17-2020, 07:37 PM
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hellboy_mcqueen
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I check with my service representative.
Moisture / fog can occur but there should be no drops inside. If there are drops or water inside then ask them to change under warranty.
Old 04-17-2020, 07:40 PM
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Taillights is normal. The LEDs don't get warm enough to burn off moisture in some conditions.
Old 04-17-2020, 08:02 PM
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Maverick787
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Originally Posted by CubsFan1
Are you referencing this as a Porsche statement only or all cars?

Reason I ask is this...I remember in 2014 when I purchased a brand new Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. Had 10 miles on it. Drove it home first time and there was moisture in the LED headlights. My heart sank, how could this happen right after I bought it. Took it right back and they said completely normal. Kept that car four years, zero issues, wonderful car with loads of power w/ V8 Hemi, and never had one issue with the LED headlight which at times would indicate condensation.
My reference is Porsche only I’ve owned 5 and not one had moisture in the headlights. A actually from my Ferrari’s and MAC’a never had moisture in the head lights. Now all my Porsche in the year as they’re vented.
Old 04-17-2020, 08:24 PM
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Mav - Did you mean all your Porsche rear taillights do sometimes show moisture?



Old 04-17-2020, 09:34 PM
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Originally Posted by CubsFan1
Mav - Did you mean all your Porsche rear taillights do sometimes show moisture?
yes tail lights show moisture because they’re not sealed like the headlights. The tail lights have a tiny vent hole if you look closely.

Last edited by Maverick787; 04-17-2020 at 09:49 PM.
Old 04-17-2020, 09:45 PM
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It is interesting. I get the moisture like the OP shows on occasion on the taillights with the RS. I don't believe any of my 911's have shown it on the headlight. However, I have other cars where it does happen and the dealers says it is normal. I am never comfortable with it, but have largely ignored it since owning the Jeep. Like you said, maybe it is by manufacturer and their design.


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