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Cloudy headlight cover

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Old 08-23-03, 08:07 PM
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Hopeful
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Default Cloudy headlight cover

I have one perfectly beautiful headlight cover and one that is "cloudy". I can't tell if it's condensation inside or what. Any suggestions or fixes?

linda
Old 08-23-03, 11:10 PM
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lexusk8
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Can you elaborate more on the "cloudy" headlight? If you mean it just looks there are dust particles on the surface of the headlight lens, you may try using a special plastic cleaner and polish solvent, bought at an auto parts store.

However, if there is condensation as you mentioned, this usually means there is a leak in the inner sealing of the headlamp assembly, causing moisture to get trapped, and thereby creating "fogged" conditions on the lens. Sometimes the condensation will naturally go away after a few days within a week, but if not, you can try to remove the headlamp and re-seal the old seal with some waterproof house acrylic sealant bought at Home Depot or similar.

If you inquire the dealership about this headlamp problem, they will most likely recommend the headlight to be replaced, which I'm sure is not what you really want. These are just a couple fixes I can think of for the headlamp. Don't hesitate to ask more Good luck.
Old 08-24-03, 10:27 AM
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Hopeful
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Unhappy Foggy inside

Yes, the plastic is foggy. I think it's inside since I've cleaned the outside well and it's still there. I was hoping it wasn't a hole where moisture was getting inside because those headlight covers look very difficult to remove. I'm afraid of breaking it or cracking it. My car is still under warranty. Do you think they'll fix it for free?

linda
Old 08-24-03, 11:40 AM
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lexusk8
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I'm pretty sure the dealership will be able to either repair or replace the headlamp at no charge since you say your car is under warranty. This should save you plenty of your time and money. After they honor the warranty work, make sure they do the job right because you don't want to go back there numerous times if the problem comes back again. Good luck.
Old 08-24-03, 08:36 PM
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sniper5
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Yes, the plastic is foggy. I think it's inside since I've cleaned the outside well and it's still there
If you have tried Windex or something similar it usually won't help with the problem you're experiencing. To make sure it is on the inside, try some rubbing compound like 3M's Perfect-It 2 compund and see if it clears it up. Just rub a small amount on and buff it off.

Last edited by sniper5; 08-24-03 at 08:37 PM.
Old 08-27-03, 02:28 AM
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lexus96817
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I had a similar problem with my 03 black es300. Car is parked under the Hawaiian sun Mon to Fri. The headlamps were very foggy as if they were huge water spots. Tried polish, glass cleaner and even 50/50 vinegar/water. The vinegar solution somewhat works (came 50% clearer) but i decided to try out the 3M Plastic Cleaner that I stumbled upon. Applied it three weeks ago and my headlamps still looks as clear as glass. I picked it up at Napa assuming you're in HI. Let me know if you can't find it.
Old 08-27-03, 04:59 AM
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GRAYM
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have the cover replaced.....your plastic cover is not good...had the same problem.
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