Subhead
Automotive advice from The Under the Hood® Show
Body
Dear Motor Medics,
I’m having a problem with my lights on my 2012 Ford Taurus. Both the front and rear lights have water in them. The rear looks like a bathroom mirror after a hot shower on both sides and the front has water collected towards the bottom of the driver’s side headlight.
When the weather is dry for long periods they will clear up, but if I wash the car or it rains, they fog right back up. The bulbs themselves seem to be working okay and this has gone on for a couple of years.
What can I do to fix this? I just don’t like the way it looks.
Pat in Larchwood, Iowa
Dear Pat,
Many vehicles have this issue. The moisture comes from the seal around the plastic lens leaking where it’s bonded to the inside light reflector housing. During hot sunny days the heat generated by the sun will break down the seal and moisture will occur. In some cases, the lens will separate completely from the reflector.
We have seen people try many things to repair their existing lights but usually the most effective fix is to replace the assembly.
Check several places for the best deal. Auto recycling facilities, the dealer and auto parts stores usually carry assemblies.
Once you find a good light at a reasonable cost, you could possibly install them yourself. You will want to have the front aimed by a professional though.
Take care,
The Motor Medics
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