GROUP

MODEL

BOD

All Models

NUMBER

DATE

055 (Rev 1, 09/13/2021)

March 2010

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
SUBJECT:

INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION
AND MOISTURE

 NOTICE
This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this
bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
This bulletin provides information relating to some Kia models that may exhibit fogging, condensation, and/or
moisture inside a headlamp assembly. Generally, a fogging condition is considered normal and can be
eliminated by turning on the headlamps with the engine running for up to 30 minutes or during normal driving
conditions. Headlamp assembly replacement WILL NOT be necessary in most cases.

EXAMPLE: Moisture accumulated within the headlamp
assembly displays a fogging condition.

 NOTICE
Headlamp fogging (as shown above) is a normal occurrence and headlamp assembly replacement
WILL NOT be necessary to resolve this issue.

A printed copy is for reference only; publication information can be updated at any time.

Page 2 of 4

INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE
1. Causes of Headlamp Fogging/Moisture: Normal Condensation
With a drop in air temperature, condensation droplets
may form on the inside of the cool headlamp lens.
This condition is NORMAL and can usually be
eliminated by following the “Headlamp Assembly
Drying Procedure” below. Repair or replacement is
not required.

Example of normal condensation in headlamp.
No repair or replacement necessary.
Headlamp Assembly Drying Procedure
Dry out the headlamp assembly by removing the dust
cap(s) (A), then allow vehicle to idle for 30 minutes
with engine running and headlamps turned ON in
order for condensation/moisture to evaporate. Verify
condensation has been eliminated.
Note: Be sure to reinstall dust cap(s) (A) before

A

returning vehicle to customer.

2. Causes of Headlamp Fogging/Moisture: Water Intrusion
If water pools at the bottom of the headlamp
assembly and/or if fogging remains after the
“Headlamp Assembly Drying Procedure,” this
condition may be caused by a water leak. Water
intrusion may be the result of a poor seal between the
housing and lens or bulb socket, cracks in the
headlamp assembly, poor fit, pressure washer, car
wash, or other outside influence. In these cases,
diagnose and repair as needed.

 NOTICE
Replacement of a headlamp assembly for an
actual water leak requires DPSM approval
and requires condition to be documented
with photos attached to a TechLine case.
Note: Refer to next page for examples of types of water
intrusion and suggested solutions.
Examples of water leak in headlamp.
Water droplets inside of headlamp assembly.
Condition should be diagnosed and repaired.
Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

TSB: BOD055 (Rev 1) All Models March 2010

Page 3 of 4

INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE

 NOTICE
For each diagnosis, be sure to take photos, record weights, etc. and open a TechLine case as
necessary. Then test drive after repair to verify moisture has been eliminated.

 IMPORTANT
Inspect the affected headlamp assembly for external damage and/or aftermarket modifications.
If damage or modifications are present, repair/replacement is not covered under warranty.
Blocked Headlamp Assembly Vents
Spider webs, dirt, debris, or other foreign substances
may block headlamp assembly vents (A) and prevent

A

normal ventilation.
Solution: Locate and inspect the headlamp assembly
vents for blockage, and clean as needed.

B

Desiccant Bag Over-saturation
The desiccant bag (B) has absorbed its maximum
amount of moisture and is no longer effective.
Solution: Locate and replace the over-saturated
desiccant bag.

Failed Headlamp Assembly Seals or Gaskets
Seals or gaskets (C) may be damaged by minor
accidents,

incorrectly

installed

bulbs,

shipping

damage, pressure washing, or certain car washes.
Solution: Locate the area of failure and determine if it
is repairable. In some cases, headlamp replacement
will be necessary.

C

Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

TSB: BOD055 (Rev 1) All Models March 2010

Page 4 of 4

INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE
Other Factors to Consider:
Environmental Factors
Extreme weather and elements such as wind, water,
dirt, debris, heat, freezing, or other foreign influences
may cause water intrusion into the headlamp
assembly.
Solution: Perform the “Headlamp Assembly Drying
Procedure”

on

page

2

to

eliminate

moisture.

If moisture cannot be eliminated, perform further
diagnosis per this TSB and KGIS.

Model Specific Differences
Certain

models

may

have

different

headlamp

assembly designs which allow more moisture and
condensation to collect than others.
Solution: Search KGIS for model-specific TSBs, Service
Actions,

or

Campaigns

available

for

these

models/headlamp assembly designs.

 NOTICE
Normal warranty applies for any headlamp assembly with moisture and/or condensation.

Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

TSB: BOD055 (Rev 1) All Models March 2010