GR86 Strange stains inside my headlights - any opinions?

Shoggy

Shoggy

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Both of my headlights show these strange stains on the inside. These are only clearly visible under certain lighting conditions and viewing angles. So, maybe some of you have them too without even noticing it yet?

At first I thought it was residue from moisture, but that somehow seems implausible to me. Accordingly, I should notice moisture in the headlights more often, but this is not the case. And as far as I know our headlights are a completely closed system?

While researching, I found this discussion of Corvette drivers who have pretty much the same problem. There was speculation that it could possibly be an incorrectly applied anti-fog coating or heat-induced vaporization of something in the headlights.

In the end, the people there got their headlights replaced under warranty. Do you think Toyota should also replace the headlights in my case?

I will definitely contact my dealer about this soon.
 
In my opinion I'd say it's an issue that should be covered under warranty.
 
Almost looks like some of the sealant has got really hot and briefly turned to liquid and dripped down the inside of the housing.
 
That’s what it looks like to me from those images. I’ll have to check my own car when I get a moment but it’s certainly more consistent with a clear sealant or bonding agent to my eyes than a moisture build up.
 
Found the same on my Near Side headlight. I had to use a bright ‘swirl spotter’ torch to see it; with natural light I couldn’t see anything unless I got really close and then it looked like transparent water stains. So minor that I’ll not worry unless it affects the clarity or function of my headlights.

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Shoggy said:
Finally an update: Toyota will replace my headlights
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That's a good outcome. Did it take a long time to approve? I may have to give it a try considering that I have the same staining, albeit slightly less severe than yours.
 
Sonic said:
That's a good outcome. Did it take a long time to approve? I may have to give it a try considering that I have the same staining, albeit slightly less severe than yours.
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My car had its annual inspection on December 9, where the problem with the headlights was also documented. The dealership then contacted Toyota and received a response on December 18 asking for more pictures and information, which I immediately provided.

Then nothing happened for a long time and yesterday I asked the dealership if there was any news. Today they told me that Toyota had agreed to the replacement and that they would get back to me as soon as the new headlights arrived.
 
Sonic said:
I may have to give it a try considering that I have the same staining, albeit slightly less severe than yours.
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Just to add one point why you should do that: These headlights are really expensive. I know someone who had a front crash and both had to be replaced. Each headlight was quoted with about 2000 EUR (~1670 GBP). So, personally I would not risk that the situation with these stains become worse over time and then it is too late for a complaint. I think my dealer stated something about 3 years.
 
Rather than start a new thread I’ll just add an issue I’ve noticed with my headlights to this one. Has anyone else experienced similar?

The finish on the black banding at the bottom of the lamps seems to be failing. No sign of impact or abrasion as the failure looks to be happening from the back side of the lens. The car has sub 5,000 miles and is stored in a garage when not in use.

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I wonder if it's anything to do with excessive temperature variation on the sealant/glue and it has oxidised in patches?
 
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