Leaking Rear Light Housing

[JerryB]

2006 XLT: My driver's-side tail light fixture leaks water in at every rain storm. Enough of a leak that the lens housing fills so the liquid level is visible from the outside. Sometimes looks to be half full, and it does not drain out. I have to take it off the car and even then I can not really get it completely dry..

This eventually results in the turn signal not working. When I finally disassembled it yesterday, there was at least a pint of water in the three portions of the fixture. Took quite a bit of effort to get it semi-dry.

The contacts on the turn signal bulb were completely gone as a result of corrosion. Fortunately the socket contacts were able to be brushed clean.

My question is how do I seal this fixture. I don't really see any obvious defect in the gasket or fixture.

 

[07EddyB]

There has to be a hole in the top somewhere. Or a crack somewhere that you aren't seeing. Think about it - how else could water get in. The bulb sockets have a seal (they still do right?) and the housing is sealed to protect itself - the body doesn't protect it. You need to inspect that housing a little closer.

 

[SixPonies]

If all else fails, replacements can be found aplenty on eBay.

 

[JerryB]

Thanks for the replies.

Yes, the seals appear to be in good condition.

I'll take a closer look at the housing.