CJ7Hokie

That is quite possible. I do not recall at which side I was looking for it now. However with that in mind, how much good does that gasket actually do at sealing water out from below? It's not like we are traversing deep streams and run the risk of water getting so high, that it ruins the ballast from below. From my understanding, and personal experience, my was ruined from water getting to it from above, through a poorly designed Lexus headlight seal.

On a side note, does anyone know what the part number is for the small black round clips that hold the vertical black plastic piece which is located towards the center of the vehicle beside either headlight? I have looked at multiple parts diagrams on Sewell's site, and cannot find this area, or part anywhere. Sorry, I should have attached a picture and can do this later if need be.

Thanks

starzil

I'm new to the Lexus forums. I just purchased a 2005 RX330, 65K. The driver's side headlight has a lot of condensation in it & the projector light is not working. Replaced the bulb, but that did not fix the issue. The Cadillac dealer that I bought it from said that the whole assembly needs to be replaced. Is that the usual fix?

Carver

Probably the ballast. Are they going to pay for it? If so a new headlight assembly and ballast would be nice. If you are stuck with it you might be able to replace the ballast and reseal the headlight.

chuckbass

I had the same problem. Replaced the ballast and sealed the headlights. No more issues.

starzil

The dealer is going to replace it because I can't get an inspection sticker (safety issue). They have to paint the fender too (masking tape removed some of the paint clear coat).

mandyfig

Welcome to CL. Use the saerch on headlamp condensation, tons of info. Good luck.

neelnaik

Welcome to CL starzil. I agree that the ballast is most likely the issue. If they do not replace the housing, be sure you re-seal it to prevent future problems.

starzil

Thanks for the quick reply. Is the ballast part of the headlight housing or can it be replaced seperately?

neelnaik

The ballast can be replaced separately. The ballast is located on the underside of the headlight housing behind a plastic cover. From my understanding, there are four screws that hold the cover on, and once the cover is removed, it is easy to replace the ballast. You can buy the ballast on ebay for about $150. If you choose to just replace the ballast, I strongly recommend that you re-seal the light. mandyfig did a DIY a while back on how to re-seal the headlight (see link).

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...densation.html

mandyfig

Yes better be safe than sorry. Go for it.

LS430FL

had same problem about a year and a half ago. brought to dealer and they put brand new headlight assembly in. Now other side is leaking. Going to do same thing.

LS430FL

btw my car is a 2009 RX350

starzil

Thank all, dealer replaced the whole assembly.

01LEXPL

iTrader: (10)

^ good, its the only permanent, proper fix. Some have had luck with their re-sealing methods, but it's far to subjective [dependent on climate lived in] I had resealed one set of headlamps for an 07 400h and they got right back to condensing within days.

maxwebr

Hi All, I also have this issue. The real stopping point for me is the cost of the new assembly. The dealer here in california quoted $1900. WTF..
I was hoping to just replace the ballast and do the DIY. For those who have done the DIY, is it terribly hard for those who don't work on cars all the time?

Thanks!