Why sweat the lights and how to fix it

Why sweat the lights?

Because of the condensate. Running lamp heated air inside the headlamp, and with increasing temperature and increasing pressure. To optics simply do not burst, the lens unit is not completely sealed. Pressure equalize special valves at the top and bottom of the housing, which goes through the ventilation.

After switching off the lights begin to cool, the pressure therein is reduced and the air is sucked through the valve from the atmosphere. In the autumn and spring - when the air is cold and wet - on glasses condensation drops inside the heated range.

Would you say it's okay?

Yes, it's a natural process. Condensation disappears just as there is. Most manufacturers do not consider fogging defect headlights and allow the formation of a short-term moisture. It should disappear within 30 minutes after turning on the low beam.

But there right splashing! How so?

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But this is bad! If the moisture inside the optics does not evaporate, and flows down on the glass and collects in puddles whole, turning lights in the aquarium - urgently looking for the cause of disorders of ventilation. There are three possible options.

1. Clogged valves. After prolonged use, they become clogged with dirt and dust, clogging the headlights. Air exchange internal cavity is broken. The moisture evaporates and the condensate drops.
2. Cracked glass or body. Even after minor damage headlight units, water can get inside and accumulate there.
3. The destruction of the seals. Glass, and lid shells wiring harness connectors have airtight seals that protect the lights from dust and moisture. Over time or after road accident the material is partially broken and does not fulfill its function.

It's probably dangerous?

Yes. Nothing good about it. Besides unattractive appearance range, fogging leads to yellowing and corrosion reflectors illumination deteriorates due to refraction at the condensate droplets and improper dispersion of light.

In addition, moisture spoils the electrical part of the optics. Lamps burn out ahead of time, contacts are oxidized, and the light can go out at the most inopportune moment. And, of course, increases the risk of a short circuit in the wiring.

How to remove moisture?

It is necessary to dry the headlights. The easiest way - remove the optics cap and turn the dipped for a few minutes. In the heated garage and warm weather, you can simply open the case of headlights and leave the car for a couple of days. The ride is not worth without lids, or gets into the dust and have to fight even with the dirt on the reflectors.

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Another option - to blow air compressor or hairdryer inside lights. 15-20 minutes all the moisture must evaporate. Important not overdone air with a temperature not to melt the housing and the reflector to overheat or glass.

If the lamp is mounted on two or three bolts or even by snap on, the easiest way to remove it, take home and dry on the battery, or simply in the room.

Well dried out, and then what?

Now it is necessary to remove the cause fogging to everything does not happen again. Check the drain valves on the body. In different models of optics may be a simple plastic caps, bent tubes with foam inserts or membranes with multiple holes. If necessary, clean the valves, replace with a new foam.

Inspect the seal on the lid to make sure none of cracks on the housing and the glass. Eliminate these problems on their own stands, only if you believe in their abilities. Often involves removal of headlights bumper disassembly, and to restore the tightness of joints, need a special sealer and sealing tape.

And how to make sure that the headlights no longer sweating?

Yes, there are a few tricks, so that condensate does not fall out.

1. If possible, turn off the lights for a few minutes before the entrance to the car washTo allow them to cool.
2. Place the inside cover of the headlight couple of sachets of silica gel - it will absorb some of the moisture. Kia and other manufacturers have set such an upgrade from the factory.
3. Regularly check the drain valve and clean them, so lights are not plugged.