MAINTENANCE > ROADWORTHY > LIGHTS

Lights (Roadworthy)

Ensuring ALL your vehicle's exterior lights are in a roadworthy condition is an important safety precaution, failing which will make your intentions less predictable to other road users and lead to accidents, or even worse, fatalities.

💡 Tips:

• ⮟ Tips on checking your vehicle lights.

? Questions:

• ⮟ How do I clean foggy headlights?

• ⮟ How does moisture get into a headlamp?

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💡 Tips on checking your vehicle lights

It is good to periodically check the following:

• Keep lights clean from dirt and debris.

• All lights are working. You can check from reflection off different surfaces. For example, at night, if you pull up in front of a garage door you can do a quick check which will only take a few seconds. Have a look at the reflection off the door and change between high and low beam, fog lights, parking, indicators to see if all lights are working. Same for the rear lights, brake lights and indicators.

• Not only should the lights be working, but must be bright enough.

• Some vehicles are designed in a way that if an indicator bulb has blown, when the indicators are operated, the sound the indicator makes will be a lot quicker than the normal speed. If you hear this speed up in the sound, check the indicator bulbs.

• No water or moisture has penetrated the light. This will quickly corrode or rust the metal components and either short-circuit or stop the light from working.

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? How do I clean foggy headlights?

Rub toothpaste or baking soda over the lens of the light and then wipe off with a micro fiber cloth. These are abrasive enough to smooth the surface without scratching them. See Bridgestonetire for more information.

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? How does moisture get into a headlamp?

Moisture can enter a headlamp through various means, and it's a relatively common issue in automotive or outdoor lighting systems. Here are a few possible ways moisture can get into a headlamp:

• Condensation: Headlamp housings are typically sealed to prevent moisture ingress. However, due to temperature changes or inadequate sealing, condensation can occur inside the headlamp assembly. When the temperature inside the housing fluctuates, the moisture in the air can condense on the cooler surfaces, such as the lens or reflector.

• Damaged or deteriorated seals: Over time, the rubber gaskets or seals that are designed to keep moisture out can degrade or become damaged. This can happen due to age, exposure to harsh weather conditions, or physical impacts. Once the seals are compromised, water and moisture can easily seep into the headlamp assembly.

• Cracked or broken lens: If the headlamp lens is cracked or broken, it creates a direct entry point for moisture. Rainwater, snow, or even high-pressure water from car washes can find its way into the headlamp housing, causing moisture-related issues.

• Improper installation or maintenance: In some cases, moisture ingress can be attributed to incorrect installation or poor maintenance practices. If the headlamp housing or bulb is not properly secured, it can create gaps or openings for moisture to enter. Similarly, improper resealing after bulb replacement or repairs can lead to moisture-related problems.

• Driving through water or deep puddles: When a vehicle encounters water hazards such as flooded roads or deep puddles, there is a risk of water splashing into the headlamp assembly. If the water manages to breach the seals or enter through damaged components, it can cause moisture-related issues.

It's important to note that having moisture inside a headlamp can lead to various problems, including reduced visibility, decreased bulb lifespan, and potential damage to electrical components.

If you notice moisture in your headlamp, it's advisable to address the issue promptly by inspecting the seals, replacing damaged components, or seeking professional assistance to ensure the headlamp is properly sealed and protected.

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