2014 headlight staining

[dekeman]

Just noticed this while hand washing the truck for first time: the insides of the headlights on both sides are stained with what appears to be something resembling tears on the top, front edge, as though there was frost inside and it melted, then dried. Not seriously noticeable, as you can tell from pics, it's hard to see, but something is wrong here. I am running H9 bulbs but seriously doubt that would cause this. Any suggestions? (Sorry about the large pics but it helps to see the issue.)

 

[3wbdriver]

There have been reports of some leaking. That looks like condensation that dried leaving a residue. Ask the dealer to replace them. Unless your H9 upgrade left some air gap?

 

[buchaja]

I can see it. You say it's on the inside? Take it in for warranty replacement, methinks.

 

[dekeman]

There have been reports of some leaking.

Where did you see that? I don't suspect I'm the first one, but I haven't seen it here yet. I've seen the condensing tail lights, but not this.

 

[3wbdriver]

You are correct. My mistake. But the first poster in this thread looks like he had something similar to yours in his headlights after a closer check.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/161227-2014-tail-light-condensation.html

 

[snapple13]

got it too

 

[dekeman]

Good to know, thanks snapple.

 

[Native]

After reading this thread I checked mine the other day, they look to have some sort of mist in them, maybe condensation.

 

[dekeman]

This thread may be the start of a chronicle into a wider problem, much like the condensing tail lamps and turning noise on early-production 2014 TE with KDSS.
Perhaps it's only early 14 models affected. Mine was assembled 08/13.
I encourage anyone with the issue to post pics.

 

[SCA]

Anyone affected by this please also post your month/year of production from the VIN sticker located on the drivers door jamb.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I would also encourage you to report it to Toyota and possibly your dealer if you have one that you go to for service. Best case scenario it turns into a TSB/Campaign, worst case you have evidence to present Toyota for a warranty claim.

 

[Stimulant]

Yep I noticed on my head light too. 2014 model... What is the fix for this?

 

[Stimulant]

Any update this the light covers?

 

[dekeman]

Only fix is full replacement. I'm going to wait for a TSB or until they start to get a bit more chipped up, faded externally but while still under warranty. I did show it to the dealer who asked if I wanted them replaced right now. Said, I'll hold off for a bit since it's a lot of work to access them, and I worry something else will become an issue because of the repair.

 

[Stimulant]

Ok, thanks for the update.

 

[HighOnRice]

I have a '14 and I haven't seen anything in the headlights as of yet.

I might not have used the headlights enough (only have 500 miles on it). I'll keep watch. Manufactured on 04/14.

 

[dekeman]

Goes to dealer tomorrow for headlamp replacement, both sides, under warranty. Dealer didn't even hesitate, took one look, ordered new ones.

 

[sandcrawler]

Goes to dealer tomorrow for headlamp replacement, both sides, under warranty. Dealer didn't even hesitate, took one look, ordered new ones.

wow. that looks really bad, Derek. definitely a no-questions-asked replacement.

be sure to go over everything with a fine-toothed comb when they're done to be sure everything's properly fastened and that they didn't introduce any new damage in the process.

goes without saying, but swap your old bulbs back in prior to handing over the keys, as well. :

 

[dekeman]

Thanks SC, it's actually much worse than that - took the pic on a good day.
Yes, putting stock bulbs in today. Hoping, of course, nothing gets messed up in the swap. Will be shocked if it all gets done perfectly without new damage.

 

[Mistaken]

Damn, that would be frustrating. The dealer is covering it, but still.