Steamed up light

G

g1344304

Member
Hi guys, I am taking ownership of an M roadster in a few days (weather permitting). It is in beautiful condition inside and out (I will put some pics up when I can) but the only niggle is that one of the headlights is steaming up. The current owner says it has been that way for 2 years, any time the car is washed or it rains, but that the steam clears (after about 20mins). The front headlights have been smoked (modded). I didn't think it was a big issue when I put the deposit down as it was the only flaw with the car but am starting to wonder. Even if it doesn't effect the operation it is bloody annoying how much it ruins the looks. The seller attempted to get the light resealed (picture below) as part of the sale but I don't think it will help. So what are my options here? For info I am skint as fook and really don't want to be shelling out for a new light if it can be avoided. Is it possibly a case of water being already trapped inside and not escaping through the vents or is it new water finding a way in each time? P.S. I don't know why the garage didn't make sure the light was dried before attempting to seal it.

cheers for any help, Rob

PstFhAI.jpg
 
yep, remove it and bring it indoors, take the back off and let it dry for a couple of days. Check that the seals are OK (they should be unless the light has been opened with a dremmel and modded). Then purchase a new rear cover and seals (around £10 from Sopers, Lincoln including discount & postage). Job done.
 
It's no use doing the seals while there's still moisture in the headlight.
He's just sealing the damp in. It needs drying out thoroughly before re-sealing again.
 
Light has been modded (smoked), wouldn't mind taking em both out, de-smoking them and putting em back in. I don't have the car yet and don't know my way around under the bonnet yet but I am under the impression that removing the headlights is a tricky job, is there a guide/instructions online? Also if any one has a link to purchase the seals online it would be much appreciated!
 
For purchasing the seals and backs, you will need part number and telephone Sopers BMW in Lincoln, on 01522 690000, then ask for Jamie. He'll even help you with the part number if needed (they come as a single unit, back and seal, one per side). Mention the forum for a discount.


Tapatalking...
 
Cheers guys, I already feel confident enough to do the job. Have to say I am tempted to get a set of angel eyes and take care of the problem that way, but as I already mentioned, skinto!
 
aim a hairdryer on the insides until it drys out.
i did this when I failed to put the cover back on after changing bulbs
 
There's seals on the back of the lamps, buy new ones to rule this out.

If you go back a bit through my last posts you'll find the part numbers.

Also, there's little "U" shaped bungs on the back of the light, these let condensation out, but if they fall off, the let water in (the u-shaped design allows no water in).

If I had to guess I'd say it's probably either the rear seals (about £12 each) or some of those little u shaped tubes have come off (there's three per light).

If it's not, and you've got the lights out, you can re-seal all the way around the edge with silicone and then fit the new rear seals. Sorted.
 
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