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2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not?

7 messages,  Last post on Oct 15, 2010 at 9:50 AM

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#1 of 7 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? by idrewu2me

Sep 27, 2009 (10:13 pm)

I am looking at purchasing a 2008 Equinox. I noted moisture buildup on the inside of the headlamp lens. When asked about it the dealer rep said it was normal and of no concern, adding if I wanted he could have a mechanic "blow it out". Is there anyone out there that can confirm or deny what the dealer is telling me?

#2 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [idrewu2me] by steve_ HOST

Sep 27, 2009 (10:18 pm)

Replying to: idrewu2me (Sep 27, 2009 10:13 pm)
It's not normal.
 
If it was normal all the other Equinoxes (or any other car for that matter) would have damp lens.
 
Find another dealer, or at least another salesperson.

#3 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [steve_] by idrewu2me

Sep 27, 2009 (10:23 pm)

Replying to: steve_ (Sep 27, 2009 10:18 pm)
steve,
should the effected lenses be replaced under the bumper to bumper warranty since this is a chevy certified preowned vehicle which carries a 12 month 12,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty?

#4 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [idrewu2me] by steve_ HOST

Sep 28, 2009 (9:03 am)

Replying to: idrewu2me (Sep 27, 2009 10:23 pm)
I would think so - that's not a wear and tear issue. Unless the dealer says the lens are cracked from road gravel, but that shouldn't be an issue here since you haven't purchased the car yet.
 
I suppose it's possible that the dealer went through a car wash or pressure washed the 'Nox and got some moisture in the headlamps. If so, it's possible that blowing out the excess could cause it to clear up in a week.
 
Some dealers will try to reseal the grommets or may even toss desiccant packs in with the bulbs. Or they'll find a crack and put some silicone on it. Or they'll try adding more air vents (most designs have 2 or 3 vents to lower the humidity level inside the headlamp assembly).
 
If the condensation is constant, my guess is that it either has a bad seal somewhere (like the grommet around the bulb access) or cracks in the lens.
 
Best permanent fix is new headlamp assemblies I think.

#5 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [idrewu2me] by bluehiequinos

Sep 17, 2010 (1:08 am)

Replying to: idrewu2me (Sep 27, 2009 10:13 pm)
I have a 2008 sport equinox with a left front headlamp with condensation.This headlamp is not cracked, don't know how come it's that way,it is not normal.

#6 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [bluehiequinos] by rockmobile

Sep 18, 2010 (1:57 pm)

Replying to: bluehiequinos (Sep 17, 2010 1:08 am)
With time and patience you can fix it yourself. In my case (Quest minivan) I found out that water was getting in through the seam that connects the lens to the back side of the assembly.
 
The solution was to take out the headlamp assembly from the car, blow all the water out and let it dry, and then applying silicon sealant to the length of the seam. That was my case, your mileage may vary.

#7 of 7 Re: 2008 headlamp condensation ... normal or not? [idrewu2me] by dean53

Oct 15, 2010 (9:50 am)

Replying to: idrewu2me (Sep 27, 2009 10:13 pm)
I purchased an 07 Equinox this past January. A week after I got it I noticed condensation in the passenger head light assembly. I took it back to the dealer and they replaced it with a new one under warranty. They were not sure if the seam was cracked or the grommets were leaking. It is not normal. Depending on your warranty, it may be covered.

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