By: Otaiba Ahsan

Whether you’re a new or long-time Tesla owner, it’s possible you’ve noticed condensation in the head or taillights of the car. It’s even happened to my own vehicle a few times and I found myself asking, is condensation in the headlights or taillights of your Tesla a cause for concern? Continue reading for details.

Normal Headlights

Before we go over condensation in Tesla head or taillights, let’s quickly review everything you need to know about the headlights and their settings in general first.

All the exterior lights are set to Auto each time you start your Model 3 or Model Y. This includes headlights, taillights, side marker lights and more. The Auto feature examines the environment and determines what combination of lights is best to engage during that time. To adjust any headlight settings, tap Controls > Lights when in your Tesla. You can then choose from a few different options:

1. Off: This will turn all the exterior lights off. However, depending on the region you’re in, daytime running lights may remain on due to regulations.
2. Parking: By toggling this setting, parking lights, side marker lights, taillights and license plate lights will turn on, if they’re not already.
3. On: Low beam headlights, side marker lights, parking lights, taillights and the license plate lights will all turn on, if they’re not already.

If you change to a different setting, the lights will always revert to Auto on your next drive.

NOTE: Both the Model 3 and Model Y have a series of LED lights along the rim of the headlights, also known as signature lights. They automatically turn on when in a drive mode such as Reverse or Drive.

TIP: The rear taillights are off when daytime running lights are on. However, it’s vital that they remain on during low rear visibility conditions. These include dark, foggy, snowy, or wet environments. If they’re not on, it can result in dangerous situations.

Learn how to manage the different settings for the Tesla Model 3 and Y high-beam headlights.

Condensation in the Headlights or Taillights

Due to weather changes, humidity levels, or recent exposure to water such as from a car wash, condensation may occasionally accumulate in your Tesla’s head or taillights. Should this be a major cause for concern?

Tesla states that this is completely normal, and as weather gets warmer and humidity decreases, condensation often disappears on its own. If you notice water buildup within the exterior lenses, or if the condensation affects the visibility of the exterior lights, then you’ll have to contact Tesla Service.

The Bottom Line

Is condensation in the headlights and taillights of your Tesla a cause for concern? The short answer is, no. Tesla states that this is completely normal, and as weather gets warmer and humidity decreases, condensation often disappears on its own. However, if the problem persists or obstructs the visibility of the exterior lights, then Tesla Service should be contacted.