I bought my 2008 350Z six months ago. When I bought the car, I realized the left headlight didn't work and that there was visible condensation inside of it. The dealership told me if I fixed the headlight and sent them the bill, they'd reimburse me. So I took it to Nissan and splurged, spending $800 total to get a new HID ballast control unit.

I just noticed that the headlight is not working again. The headlight periodically has condensation under it, so I'm wondering if it leaks when it rains, which is often here in Florida. The HID control unit is still under warranty with Nissan, so I'm going to take it back into the stealership. However, should I consider buying a whole new headlight housing since this one appears to be leaking?

 

no need in getting a new HID ballast. just take the ballast out and let it dry out and it should be good. as for the housing try putting a few silica gel packets inside the housing to absorb the condensation. Also get some silicone to reseal around the edges of the housing.

 

do you have your fender liners in or out

 

3 issue is possible.

1) no fender liner

2) ballast installed incorrectly and did not seal properly

3) theres a leak in the housing which needs ro be adressed. Could bake the housing open and reseal anf that might solve it.

 

Fender liners are in.

The leak on the headlight has always been there. I noticed it when I drove off the dealership lot when I bought the car used. Then I noticed that the headlight didn't work, and I figured that was why. Took it to Nissan, they replaced the HID control unit, and it worked. It was like an $800 repair. I've noticed since then that I've been getting condensation in the headlight still, but the headlight has been working until last night, so I've never really cared.

After work today I think I'll take it apart, let the headlight dry out, and try to reseal it. Where should I be applying the silicone?

 

Don't use silicone; use ocybutyl headlight sealant (same as OEM). Pull a piece off, stretch it to the right thickness, and push it in the seam between the black (rear) portion of the headlight, and the polycarbonate lens. It's obvious.