2021-2026 Jeep Taillamp Condensation Clearing TSB

Jeep has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 08-075-26, dated February 21, 2026, to address concerns regarding Jeep taillamp condensation in various 2021-2026 models. This bulletin provides technicians with a detailed procedure to evaluate and clear condensation from rear taillamp assemblies, aiming to prevent unnecessary part replacements.

This TSB supersedes an earlier bulletin, TSB 08-220-25, issued on July 22, 2025. The updated TSB includes revised years, models, and an enhanced repair procedure, along with expanded market applicability.

Symptoms of Taillamp Condensation

Owners may observe their vehicle's exterior taillamp assemblies appearing fogged with a light layer of condensation on the inside of the lenses. This condition, often referred to as Jeep taillamp condensation, can manifest under specific circumstances:

• After the lamps have been on and reached operating temperature, then rapidly cooled by cold water, such as during rain or a vehicle wash.
• After the vehicle has been parked outside overnight in certain atmospheric conditions, like a warm, humid day followed by a clear, cool night.

Typically, this condensation will clear as atmospheric conditions change, or by simply turning the taillamps on, which accelerates the evaporation process.

Cause of the Issue

The root cause of this issue is condensation and moisture buildup within the taillamp assembly. This is a common phenomenon in sealed lamp units, where temperature fluctuations can cause moisture in the air inside the lamp to condense on the cooler lens surface.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of the following critical information regarding Jeep taillamp condensation:

• Do not replace the taillamp if condensation clears: If the condensation or fogging begins to clear from the taillamp assembly within 60 minutes of the lamps operating, it indicates that the taillamp's sealing has not been compromised. In this scenario, the taillamp assembly does not need to be replaced.
• Replacement is necessary if condensation persists: If the condensation or fogging does not begin to clear after 60 minutes of lamp operation, or if large amounts of water droplets are visible on most internal surfaces, this suggests a problem with the taillamp sealing. In such cases, where "moisture in the taillamp is always present and never disappears", the taillamp assembly should be replaced.

Diagnosis and Repair Procedure Summary

Technicians are instructed to follow a specific procedure to evaluate and clear taillamp condensation before considering a taillamp assembly replacement. The process involves:

1. Initial Evaluation: Any taillamp assembly showing condensation or fogging (as depicted in Figure 1 of the TSB) must first be evaluated in a service bay. This includes drying any water from the outside surface of the lens.
2. Condensation Clearing Test: The vehicle's lamps (headlamps and hazard lights) must be operated for 60 minutes. The taillamp assembly should be checked every 15 minutes during this period.
3. Determining Action: Based on whether the condensation clears within 60 minutes, the technician will determine if the taillamp is functioning as designed or if a sealing issue requires replacement. If the condensation clears, the taillamp is considered functional, and no replacement is needed. If it does not clear or if significant water droplets are present, the taillamp has a sealing problem and requires replacement.

Labor Operations

Dealers will use the following labor operation codes for this service, covered under warranty:

Labor Operation No.	Labor Description	Labor Time
08-50-89-94	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate Moisture Dissipation Rate (0 - Introduction)	0.2 Hrs.
08-50-89-95	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate for 20 Minutes (0 - Introduction)	0.1 Hrs.
08-50-89-96	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate for 30 Minutes (0 - Introduction)	0.2 Hrs.
08-50-89-97	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate for 40 Minutes (0 - Introduction)	0.3 Hrs.
08-50-89-98	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate for 50 Minutes (0 - Introduction)	0.4 Hrs.
08-50-89-99	Setup Taillamp Condensation Test and Evaluate for 60 Minutes (0 - Introduction)	0.5 Hrs.

The failure code associated with these operations is ZZ, indicating a Service Action.

Owner Action

If you observe Jeep taillamp condensation on your 2021-2026 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Grand Cherokee L, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, or Cherokee, you should schedule an appointment with your authorized Jeep dealership. The diagnosis and repair procedure outlined in TSB 08-075-26 are reimbursable under the provisions of the vehicle's warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11029670