228/F22 Tail Light Stubborn Condensation

ZGadson · 06-14-2021, 07:48 AM

I recently had to replace both tail lights on my '16 228i due to condensation that was so bad it caused the connector to corrode and short circuit the entire tail light board on both sides. One right after the other.

I replaced the lights with used assemblies from Ebay and everything works again, but despite ensuring that seals are tight and there was no condensation inside to start with, there's more condensation inside than was even in the original tail lights. I know this is an issue that BMW would remedy under warranty, but mine ended long ago so I'm at a loss.

Fog light condensation has also been an issue since I had to replace my front bumper (long story short, ended up with an M-Sport bumper kit and had it painted to match), but this is surely out of warranty as well.

I've heard you can buy new tail lights from BMW and they'll reimburse you whether or not you're still under warranty, but it's all subjective so I'd rather not spend $1000+ and cross my fingers that BMW will cut me a check.

That said, has anyone successfully dealt with condensation like this on their own outside of the dealer? Could really use some advice. My car looks horrible and it makes me sad.

KennyFSU · 06-14-2021, 08:05 AM

I was able to fix my pre-LCI taillight condensation issues pretty easily. I opened them both up and used RTV blue silicone sealant and applied it along the entire rubber gasket. Let it dry for a few hours and re-install. No issues and it's been over a year.

POMFKIMOCHI · 10-10-2021, 12:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KennyFSU

I was able to fix my pre-LCI taillight condensation issues pretty easily. I opened them both up and used RTV blue silicone sealant and applied it along the entire rubber gasket. Let it dry for a few hours and re-install. No issues and it's been over a year.

Did you happen to take any photos of your work at the time? Would just like a visualization. Thanks in advance!

KennyFSU · 10-12-2021, 09:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by POMFKIMOCHI

Did you happen to take any photos of your work at the time? Would just like a visualization. Thanks in advance!

I only have this one but you can see where I applied the blue RTV sealant.

Mogki · 10-12-2021, 02:39 PM

I had the same issue, thankfully warranty replaced it but the guys that took the car said that's a pretty common fix to put new sealant

06-14-2021, 07:48 AM	#1
ZGadson New Member 7 Rep 29 Posts Drives: 2016 BMW 228i Join Date: May 2019 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	228/F22 Tail Light Stubborn Condensation I recently had to replace both tail lights on my '16 228i due to condensation that was so bad it caused the connector to corrode and short circuit the entire tail light board on both sides. One right after the other. I replaced the lights with used assemblies from Ebay and everything works again, but despite ensuring that seals are tight and there was no condensation inside to start with, there's more condensation inside than was even in the original tail lights. I know this is an issue that BMW would remedy under warranty, but mine ended long ago so I'm at a loss. Fog light condensation has also been an issue since I had to replace my front bumper (long story short, ended up with an M-Sport bumper kit and had it painted to match), but this is surely out of warranty as well. I've heard you can buy new tail lights from BMW and they'll reimburse you whether or not you're still under warranty, but it's all subjective so I'd rather not spend $1000+ and cross my fingers that BMW will cut me a check. That said, has anyone successfully dealt with condensation like this on their own outside of the dealer? Could really use some advice. My car looks horrible and it makes me sad.
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06-14-2021, 08:05 AM	#2
KennyFSU Captain 1104 Rep 736 Posts Drives: Lexus RC F Join Date: Nov 2019 Location: Florida iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 BMW F22 M235xi [0.00] 1991 Suzuki Intrude ... [0.00]	I was able to fix my pre-LCI taillight condensation issues pretty easily. I opened them both up and used RTV blue silicone sealant and applied it along the entire rubber gasket. Let it dry for a few hours and re-install. No issues and it's been over a year. __________________ Estoril Blue E36M3 Mineral Grey M235ix/12.02 @ 115 Ultra White Lexus RC F
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10-12-2021, 02:39 PM	#5
Mogki Private First Class 34 Rep 101 Posts Drives: BMW 230XI Join Date: Aug 2020 Location: New Jersey iTrader: (0) Garage List 2018 Subaru Crosstrek [0.00] 2017 BMW 230XI [0.00]	I had the same issue, thankfully warranty replaced it but the guys that took the car said that's a pretty common fix to put new sealant
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