Lighting - Moisture Inside Tail Lamp
10-031July 9, 2010
Applies To:
2010 Insight-From VIN JHMZE2H..A5000001 thru JHMZE2H..A5029575
Moisture in the Taillight
SYMPTOM
Condensation forms inside the taillight lens. The condition seems to happen most when the vehicle is driven from a high-humidity environment to one with low humidity. Water may also collect inside the taillight if water is sprayed directly at the taillight.
PROBABLE CAUSE
The taillight air vents are too restrictive, and one of the wiring grommets within it may not be properly sealing.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Install less restrictive taillight vents, and seal the wiring grommet.
PARTS INFORMATION
Drain Tube Kit
P/N 06335-TM8-305
REQUIRED MATERIALS
NOTE:
Either material is acceptable and only one is required.
3M Strip Caulk, black
3M P/N 051135-08578
3M Window-Weld round ribbon sealer
5/16 in. X 15 ft.
3M P/N 08611
TOOL INFORMATION
KTC Trim Tool Set
T/N SQJATP2014
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
The normal warranty applies.
Failed Part: P/N 33501-TM8-A01
Defect Code: 07407
Symptom Code: 05911
Skill Level: Repair Technician
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Release the bezel cover top clips by pushing on the taillight side of the cover.
2. Carefully pry off the lower clips using the appropriate KTC trim tool.
4. Remove the two bolts securing the taillight assembly to the body.
5. Carefully pull the taillight outward until the bracket lines up with the bumper line. Make sure that the upper clip is also released.
NOTE:
If the taillight is pulled out too far, the forward corner could be damaged.
6. Slide a long, dog-leg clip remover in between the body and the taillight assembly until the tip reaches the notch in the inner edge of the taillight assembly. Carefully lever the clip remover against the body to pry the forward clip out, then remove the taillight.
NOTE:
If the clip grommet comes out of the body with the clip, remove it from the clip and place it back into the body. If the clip grommet is damaged, replace it.
7. Release the main harness from the taillight assembly by loosening the Phillips screw.
NOTE:
While removing the wiring harness, do not allow the taillight assembly to touch the body or scratch the paint.
8. Remove the bulbs from their sockets. Do not remove the LED array grommet from its socket.
9. Unclip the 3P connector, and disconnect it from the LED array wire harness using a small, flat-tip screwdriver.
10. Carry the disconnected taillight assembly to a workbench, placing a clean shop towel beneath it to prevent the lens from being scratched or damaged.
11. Use scissors to cut about 2.25 inches of the 3M strip caulk or the 3M ribbon sealer.
NOTE:
Either material may be used.
12. Apply the strip caulk or ribbon sealer to the taillight and around the LED array grommet.
13. Mold the strip caulk or ribbon sealer around the grommet and the taillight body as shown until it forms a good seal.
14. Remove the two circular air vents.
15. Install the new U-shaped air vent tubes from the drain tube kit as shown.
The upper air vent tube should point straight down, while the lower one should point at a 45-degree angle toward the vent guard rear opening.
16. Return the bulbs to their sockets, reconnect the LED array wiring harness to its 3P connector, attach it to its wire retainer, then route and secure the main wiring harness with the Phillips screw.
17. Reinstall the taillight assembly in the taillight cavity. Make sure to engage the top clip, bottom tab, and front pin to secure and align the taillight assembly flush with the body.
18. Install the bezel cover, making sure to engage the six clips so that the cover fits flush with the taillight assembly.
19. If needed, repeat steps 1 through 18 on the opposite side.
Disclaimer