2021-2023 Hyundai Lamp Condensation TSB 23-BD-002H

Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 23-BD-002H addresses a common concern among vehicle owners: the presence of moisture or condensation inside their vehicle's lamp assemblies. This bulletin, issued in January 2023, applies to all Hyundai models from 2021 to 2023, including the Tucson, Ioniq 5, Palisade, and Santa Fe, among others. It supersedes the previous bulletin 20-BD-014H by offering updated information and examples for diagnosing and resolving lamp condensation.

The TSB clarifies that the appearance of moisture in components such as the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp is frequently a natural occurrence. For most cases of Hyundai lamp condensation, a full lamp assembly replacement is not necessary.

Symptoms of Lamp Condensation

Owners may observe visible moisture droplets or a fogging effect on the inner surfaces of their vehicle's lamp lenses. This can occur in the headlamps, DRLs, fog lamps, or rear combination lamps. The extent and location of this moisture can vary based on environmental factors and how the vehicle is used, including lamp usage, driving time, and distance.

Normal Condensation vs. Water Leak

TSB 23-BD-002H distinguishes between two types of lamp condensation:

• Normal Condensation: This is considered a natural occurrence. It typically appears after rain, a car wash, or when the vehicle is parked in cold temperatures. It happens when water vapor inside the lamp assembly is exposed to temperature variations, causing it to condense. This type of Hyundai lamp condensation is normal and does not require replacement of the lamp assembly.

• Water Leak: This indicates a more significant issue. Signs of a water leak include water collecting at the bottom of the lamp assembly, visible water streaks, or condensation that persists for 30 minutes or more after the lamps have been on. A water leak may be caused by a poor seal between the lamp housing and lens, cracks in the lamp assembly, or improper fitment. This condition requires diagnosis and repair.

Important Warnings for Owners

Hyundai explicitly states in TSB 23-BD-002H that lamp assembly replacement is NOT necessary in most cases for condensation. Furthermore, it emphasizes that this condensation is NORMAL and replacement is NOT REQUIRED for natural condensation. Owners should be aware of these guidelines to avoid unnecessary repairs.

Diagnosis and Repair Flowchart Summary

For technicians, the TSB provides a flowchart to guide the repair process for Hyundai lamp condensation:

1. Initial Assessment: Determine if lamp condensation is present.
2. Identification: Refer to the lamp condensation identification guidelines to distinguish between normal condensation and a water leak.
3. Water Leak Scenario: If a water leak is identified, the lamp assembly must be removed and inspected for external damage or aftermarket modifications. If damage is present and caused by an external influence, the repair may not be covered under warranty, and the affected lamp assembly should be replaced. If no damage, the lamp assembly is replaced.
4. Normal Condensation Scenario: If normal condensation is identified, the technician should follow the lamp assembly drying guidelines.
5. Persistent Condensation: If condensation remains after following the drying guidelines, the desiccant or moisture absorbent pack inside the lamp assembly should be replaced, and the drying procedure repeated.
6. Final Step: If condensation still persists after these steps, the affected lamp assembly should be replaced.

Lamp Assembly Drying Guidelines

To address normal Hyundai lamp condensation, the TSB outlines a specific drying procedure:

• Park the vehicle in a well-ventilated area.
• Remove any dust cap(s) from the lamp assembly. Some assemblies may have two caps.
• To prevent battery discharge, ensure the engine is running while the lamps are on.
• Allow the vehicle to idle for 30 minutes with the engine running and lamps illuminated. This helps evaporate the condensation and moisture.
• After drying, reinstall the dust cap(s).
• If condensation remains, replace the lamp desiccant or moisture absorbent pack (if equipped) and repeat the drying procedure.

Warranty Information

Normal warranty applies for any lamp assembly with condensation. When submitting a warranty claim, it is crucial to provide STUI (Service Technical Update Information) pictures. These photos should show the headlamp installed with the fender and hood partially visible, as illustrated in the TSB. If only a desiccant or moisture absorbent pack is replaced, the warranty claim should be filed using the part number for that component, not the entire lamp assembly.

NHTSA ID: 10230904