Condensation Driver Side Headlight

[Mar48]

I've read that condensation in our Z4 headlights can be caused by a bad seal/gasket when replacing a bulb.

I haven't yet messed with trying to make sure everything is tight/sealed as good as possible, but where can I buy a gasket if that ends up being the issue?

[Philly_sweden]

Originally Posted by Mar48

I've read that condensation in our Z4 headlights can be caused by a bad seal/gasket when replacing a bulb.

I haven't yet messed with trying to make sure everything is tight/sealed as good as possible, but where can I buy a gasket if that ends up being the issue?

That happend on my previous Z4 and it was caused by that the cover on the inner fender liner was loose causing the wheel to push in water.

Worth checking those first.

Good luck

[Mar48]

Good call - I will check mine, but if anyone can help with the par if I need to replace the back housing/gasket that would be awesome as well

[racerbruce]

This may help -
http://www.realoem.com/

[pungo]

AFAIK, the seal is not available separately, only as the rear cover w/ seal. I've repaired several using a thin layer of black silicone over the existing seal. The stock seal gets hard over time.

[Mar48]

^ Thanks!!

[MinneapolisJeff]

Having the same issue on a replacement used driver's side xenon headlight assembly I just bought. I did put some Sil-Glyde on the seal, but perhaps the seal is just in such bad shape? Only the turn signal area seems to still get foggy w/ condensation. After I drove around and the vehicle was totally dry the condensation was gone- was trying to figure out why this was the case.

[inTgr8r]

Originally Posted by jman1975

Having the same issue on a replacement used driver's side xenon headlight assembly I just bought. I did put some Sil-Glyde on the seal, but perhaps the seal is just in such bad shape? Only the turn signal area seems to still get foggy w/ condensation. After I drove around and the vehicle was totally dry the condensation was gone- was trying to figure out why this was the case.

the lights are not completely sealed, they have a vent.

[MinneapolisJeff]

Originally Posted by inTgr8r

the lights are not completely sealed, they have a vent.

ahhh ok, did not know that, thought the front piece was completely sealed to the housing...so the condensation is just a problem I'll have to deal with huh

didn't remember this happening on my old light assembly, however

[inTgr8r]

The seal on the back should keep any moisture out.

I had a misplaced seal & condensation when I bought my car in 2010.
Cleaned up the seal and fastened it correctly and I have never had any moisture since then.

[MinneapolisJeff]

Originally Posted by inTgr8r

The seal on the back should keep any moisture out.

I had a misplaced seal & condensation when I bought my car in 2010.
Cleaned up the seal and fastened it correctly and I have never had any moisture since then.

Going down this route. Bought a new light assembly back cover so hopefully a brand new weatherstripping seal does the trick. Cover was only about $25 so I figured I'd start here. Cover that came with the used light was the OEM cover (so I was told)

[MinneapolisJeff]

Originally Posted by jman1975

Going down this route. Bought a new light assembly back cover so hopefully a brand new weatherstripping seal does the trick. Cover was only about $25 so I figured I'd start here. Cover that came with the used light was the OEM cover (so I was told)

circling back around to provide some closure on this topic...

so I replaced the headlight rear covers on both sides (even through the left side was the one side mainly in need) washed the car, went through a rain storm, and I no longer have the condensation issue on the inside of the headlight assembly. Drying it out and providing a cover with proper seal seemed to do the trick for me. Doesn't mean folks need to buy a new cover to obtain a good seal, just was the easiest action for me to make.