Fog light water damage === PISSED

rsalomon13

New member
So I thought that I had a simple project today of switching my fog light bulbs out. First I checked the fuses and they weren't blown. So I went and picked up some bulbs, tossed my car up on jack stands and yanked out the fog light assemblies. I was a little suspicious because neither bulb seemed blown. My fears were confirmed, as I disconnected the wiring harness out poured water like it was a freaking drinking straw.
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This definitely won't be warrantied, does anyone have experience replacing the wiring harness on STI foggers? How big of a job is it? Thanks in advance.

 
Yea I always wondered about that. I dont use fogs but I have seen those wires full of water. Do you really think the wires need to be replaced?

 
After calming down, I realized that both lights are out, there was only water in the drivers side harness however. Could a short on one light fry both? I am probably not going to know until I test some more but maybe someone with more wiring experience would be able to answer that.

 
without a wiring diagram at hand, it's hard to answer specific 07 STI queries, but if it's a typical suby fog wiring setup then yes, one shorted light could disable entire circuit

also where was water pouring out of -- the light body itself, or the split loom covering the fog wiring?

 
It was only coming out of the split loom as far as I can tell. I know that this isn't always bad but it seems weird that I am having these issues plus water in the split loom.

-----Added 4/27/2009 at 04:23:59-----

So I tested with a multimeter and I get a 0V reading. I am not that experienced with electrical however so I am going have to eat a big old slice of humble pie and say this is over my head. I am going to bring it somewhere and just hope I don't have to pay out the behind.

 
Wouldn't it being wet just result in a blown fuse? I wouldn't think any wiring would be damaged unless the wiring itself rusted or something?

 
Your right.....if I had shorted out, it would have blown a fuse and my fuse wasn't blown. Does anyone have any suggestions for what could cause fog lights to stop working without a blown fuse?

 
Your right.....if I had shorted out, it would have blown a fuse and my fuse wasn't blown. Does anyone have any suggestions for what could cause fog lights to stop working without a blown fuse?
Maybe your switch is bad? Maybe try using your cruise switch to switch on the lights? I dunno if the connector is the same, but that could possibly rule out your switch.

 
Bulbs could of been bad, water in the connector could of shorted the bulb, you said that you tested for voltage and got 0v, did you make sure to turn on your headlights (low beam) then turn on your fog lights? I know its a silly question but one that could mean the difference between 0v and 12v at the connector.

 
Your right.....if I had shorted out, it would have blown a fuse and my fuse wasn't blown. Does anyone have any suggestions for what could cause fog lights to stop working without a blown fuse?
Wrong fuse?

 
You need to isolate the problem area to start with. First get a multi meter. Check for voltage at the connectors for bulbs. This will rule out bad bulbs. If voltage is present get some new bulbs and put everything back together. If there is no voltage, trace the line back from the connector looking for any obvious signs of disruption. If all looks good then you need to move farther back in the system to the switch. Check to make sure there is voltage at the switch, if there is voltage at the switch activate the switch and check to see if there is voltage on both sides. If yes switch is good if not switch is bad. If neither of first two things are the problem then it gets more difficult. If there is power to switch and through it, but no power at bulb connector then you know problem is in harness between switch and connectors. If there is no power to switch then problem is back to fuse box and or to ignition-on power source. Considering the fact that fog lights only work on low beam it would be wise to check power source through high/low beam circuit as well. Most of the time it is something basic (not always), so really look for visual signs of a problem and double check switches. Good luck and take your time. Wiring problems sometimes require many smoke breaks to reel yourself in and not get frustrated. You may insert your own vice if you don't smoke.

 
Sorry to dissapoint, Trev, my budget leans towards Supras.

I'm sure your Mom's Camry was fine for your prom, however.
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