Maxima sorry about being an ahole but I really have seen that issue on many vehicles. Most have small holes in their base to allow pressure adjustment with climate etc and condensation does occur on headlights, taillights etc (My X5 periodically has a hazy taillight after a nasty drive). They are not as sealed as most folks think.
So asking me to go away isn't being kind either. BTW salt air makes the condensation milkier LOTHAR. That is a well known fact.

 

I apologize for coming across so harshly, I had a rough week and telling me I expect special treatment was offensive. I never expect special treatment for any reason from anyone. I sure as hell don't think I'm special.

I do expect my car to operate correctly especially when new. I'm aware of condensation, but the issue is when the headlights are dry there is streaking and buildup that wasn't there before. The dealer acknowledged that it was a problem after seeing the TSB, and said there is an issue with a moisture absorber in the headlight assembly. They ordered the part but had to make sure that was the issue before ordering nearly 4k worth of parts.

If it were salt water condensation issue every jag in town would have the problem but they don't so that's my argument which I think is valid.

All that being said no hard feelings and I hope you have a good weekend!
max

 

And the TSB is evidence that Jaguar is aware of the problem (which may not affect all cars or bother all owners), so it's a "real thing".

Re salt in the air: if the sea is calm, then the moisture in the air is just H2O vapour; any water you see is condensation of pure water vapour, mixed with anything already on the surface where it condensed. When the sea is rough, then an aerosol of salt-water droplets is formed and can be blown a long way inland on a strong wind, but I doubt much of that would find its way into the lights.

I think the problem with these lights is (perversely) an anti-fogging coating put on the inside, which either was wrongly applied or not the right stuff for the job. It dissolves in or is disturbed by the water droplets and that causes the streaks when things dry.

 

THE TSB raised my awareness to another level as well esp with my "new" to me 2012 in the stable now. Peace. Type is such a harsh foem of communication at times

 

I dont recall refuting your statement I am sure it does. Just know this is Ohio and it still happens even without salt water air.

THAT OK WITH YOU DDSSKI?!??!??!

 

well i guess i did say otherwise now didnt I.... well. I guess I just didnt recall it . Have a nice day DDSSKI.

 

Let's just hope a thick fog doesn't roll in or the headlights will be completely useless.

 

According to a thread on the UK forum, the auto wipers are useless in fog too.

 

Fog can make movement useless.

 

You can't get much more rainy and humid than here in Houston and I haven't had any moisture forming in my headlights. I would think that the headlights are defective if this is occurring.

 

They may have solved the problem by the MY13 model.

 

I have a '13 but its was built in the summer of '12 so maybe the headlight assemblies have been superseded.

 

Based on the variation in experiences reported in this thread, it may have been a bad batch. Or maybe they put a new coating on when they changed the headlamp design for the MY12 models, found out about the problem when it was 'in the field', and changed the coating or the process.

 

I ordered my '13 in May, 2012 and took delivery in August, 2012 so not sure there is any difference in the headlights.

 

It looks like you are spot on. The new headlamps have this description in the parts system:

From VIN (B52588) :- Headlamp assembly H.I.D. Right / RHD Active Adaptive, C2P25609 - Anti mist coating

There was also another headlamp produced from VIN (B52387) To VIN (B52587) which is quite a small range!

 

My VIN is B510## so I don't have the coating which solves this mystery.

 

yep, I am calling my dealership right now - this bulletin came after both of my Jags were made - 2011 and 2012 for a MY2012 and MY2013 - I think I need 4 new headlights and then pray!

 

Another reason I love this forum! Two members just had an annoying problem solved with the help of other members! Thank you all!

 

hmmm, wouldn't be the first time I'd consider a silicone sealant on a seam, on our Jags...

Cheers.

 

Hmmm, my VIN is B49### so I am also before the coating change, but I still don't have any moisture forming--go figure.