Alright, I was washing my car the other day, it was fairly warm, but my water is very very cold, we have well water and it is connected to the aquifer, so that would explain the extreme cold of the water.

What I am wondering though, Is why the heck are the tail lights fogging if I haven't sprayed a strong jet of water at them, removed them, or gotten into any sort of accident? Aren't the lights supposed to be made in a vacume and with de-humidified air to stop fogging? Or am I just stupid, and mis-informed?

-Chase

 

silicon seals are probably worn in a spot?

 

What would cause them to wear? I mean, It's a MY03, garage kept car for god's sake...

-Chase

 

I had my rear left replaced. It seems to be common on the MY00. This could be the same issue with you MY

 

I have an 02 and mine were both replaced under warranty!

 

Well there is a recall on rear lights fading. So if you fall under this category go and get that done.

 

Chase, it isn't so much that the seal has worn, but likely rather that a portion of the seam wasn't well sealed from the get-go. It doesn't take but a smidgen of water inside an otherwise relatively closed environment, plus a little heat, to cause a terrarium-effect of fogging up.

As others have suggested, if you're under warranty still...the no-brainer would be to get it replaced by Honda. TSB or no, the unit is defective as it won't hold its manufactured seal.

If you're out of warranty, and want additional advice, just say so and I'll be happy to post some that should help you along.

BTW, that "vacuum sealing" question... Well, it works for lightbulbs but not for headlamp and taillamp assemblies. As soon as a brake light, turnsignal, reverse light bulb, etc., harness is twisted free to replace a bulb, there's an open invitation for moisture and/or humid air to get in. These units are not air-tight. Not sure about the rears, but I know the fronts actually even have 'weep points' built into the rubber seal for the high beams that actually allow the transfer of pressure/air in & out of the assembly. Granted, they're designed to reduce the likelihood of water actually invading, but they are "holes" nonetheless. And there is a valuable purpose in them. Park your car on a blacktop parking lot for...oh...8 hours while you're at work on a hot summer day. That headlamp is getting the livin' ceeerrap cooked outta it. Now, if that was a completely sealed unit, you can bet the internal air temp would cause something to break/split/crack as heat built up inside. These air holes allow for the heat to disperse. yada, yada... I think you get the purpose.

The rear taillights likely have something similar. But regardless, I wouldn't consider that your culprit. IMO, its likely a poorly beaded seal from the factory. I've handled conversions of some headlamps that were factory seals that were well-on missing an inch of sealant in a couple cases. Just tried to stretch it a little too thin, etc. happens...ya know?

Hopefully the dealer will take care of it as a defective replacement and that will be that. But again, if you want some suggestions for fixing it so its not a nuisance in the future, just hollar back.

- Dave

 

Thanks all, I will call the dealer as soon as I can.

-Chase