Water in headlamps. XKR 4.2.

[Beemer-5]

I have noticed that both headlamps have water marks and slight corrosion inside.
Does the glass remove so i can clean them a little, or is it a case of £800 for two new headlamp units complete?

[P700DEE]

It is possible to remove the glass but it is not the easiest job. This is quite common on XKs and several solutions have been suggested. Firstly Jaguar can fit a small T piece vent to allow the headlight to breathe. Secondly you can drop the little packets of drying agent into them and regenerate in the microwave on a regular basis. Whilst small amounts of condensation occur due to the cooling of moist air those with lots of water should check the seal on the top of the light as this can allow rain water and jet washes to penetrate the light. Regarding cleaning you could consider this access port and a cotton bud as an alternative to removing the glass ?

[Beemer-5]

Sorry, which access port?

[Beemer-5]

???

[Shar2]

The clear one under the bonnet on each headlamp. I've drop a couple of dessicant sachets in there and the condensation has gone. Alternatively the is a Jag mod which adds a couple of T pieces to the headlamp, main dealers can do this or you can just get the parts and do it yourself.

[Scottman]

I hope this helps you as opposed to confuses the issue, but:

Soon after buying my car (2003 XKR Coupe) I had problems with condensation inside both of the headlight units. The Jaguar garage where I cought the car tried the Jaguar recommended modification but to now avail, and ended up replacing both headlamp units for me under warranty.

The problem is that with the fixes, they mean that you have to have some sort of 'vent' created (this was the official Jaguar modification - where the 'T' piece is fitted) or you need to access the inside of the unit to install the other methods?

I was always lead to believe that Xenon or HiD headlamp units were supposed to be sealed, and therefore 'leaks' of any kind would dramatically reduce the life of the units? Certainly when I mentioned this to the Jaguar Dealer, they looked into it and promptly came back and admitted that replacement was the best course of action.

Since getting them replaced I have had some clear adhesive lens protectors fitted, that I got from the US; to guard against stone damage, but I have had NO recurring condensation issues at all.

Scott

Edited by Scottman on Friday 5th October 09:02

[Beemer-5]

Looks like replacement is the only answer so where's the best prices?

[Beemer-5]

Does the glass remove?

(If you got a crack via a stone would you have to replace the whole lamp?)

[Scottman]

Beemer-5 said:

Does the glass remove?

(If you got a crack via a stone would you have to replace the whole lamp?)

I would think so yes!

Best prices are probably via a Jaguar breakers?

When you do get some, I would really recommend the headlight protectors. I got mine from stickercity.com in the states! They look much more discreet than the plastic units that clip over the headlights.

http://www.stickercity.com/store/home.php?cat=1659

They are considerably cheaper than replacement units and also come with protectors for the front fog lights as well!

Scott