Preemptive Strike Against Headlight Condensation

[Moonpie]

Since my Vantage was delivered just before Christmas I have been enjoying the vehicle and have put more than 1000 sunny miles on the odometer. Absolutely zero problems including the dreaded headlight condensation issue — until last week. It was particularly cold in Coastal Georgia last week and when I backed out of the heated garage and into the 35* F weather outside I noticed a very slight fogging in the most forward section of the headlights. This light fogging was only about an inch in diameter but prompted me to install the headlight ventilation kit I had purchased from Ian at AMUPGRADES. The Vantage was washed the day before so that may have precipitated the issue.

Having read that some customers had installed the kit with the wheels on I attempted to go this route. It quickly became apparent that this method was not going to work as there was just not enough room to maneuver. With the wheels removed the installation was quite easy and literally took less than an hour total.

The headlight ventilation kit was very easy to install with superb installation instructions and pictures. Each component of the kit was individually packaged and labeled for easy identification. Once installed I started the Vantage until the engine was at normal operating temperature and then shut it off. I then listened to the headlights and I could hear the small fans whirring away as they removed any residual moisture. Although I did not time it I believe the fans ran for about an hour after the engine was shut off. I now have piece of mind that the headlights that cost $5400.00 each will be kept nice and dry.

Below are a few pictures. The Vantage ready for the ‘operation’, the new AMUPGRADES headlight cover with built in fan and condensation exhaust hose, and the wheel well cover ready to be reinstalled with new foam gasket.

If you have not done this I highly recommend that you do. It will keep your expensive headlights clear and benefit you if and when you decide to sell.

[BiggaJ]

Nice write up.

I installed the same system on my car in early January. It does appear to work very well. The only part of this system I'm not that happy about is the silicon sealant you have to use on the flap in the wheel arch housing.

I'm not sure how else to seal it so I guess it's ok.

[Moonpie]

I agree that the included silicone sealant would not be my first choice to seal the cover, but it is imperative that the new ventilating headlight cover be kept dry. I have read that some use Flex Tape which is a rubberized waterproof tape. I have used this before on my boat and it works well. I guess whatever waterproof solution one uses, it must be removable in order to change headlight bulbs when required.