What is the reason for the car lights not working after rain?
2 Answers
The reason car lights don't work well after rain is that the wavelength of the light is long-wave, which cannot refract properly and has reduced penetration when there is rain or fog in the air. Below are some methods for cleaning car lights: Clean with water: Simply wipe off the stains on the light cover with clean water, then use soapy water to clean the yellowed areas on the headlights. This will prevent the headlights from yellowing for a long time. Use a polishing machine for restoration: This can make the light cover appear brighter. Dip a clean sponge in some polishing compound and rub it on the light. The effect will be very noticeable after polishing, and it also acts as a protective layer for the light cover. Clean with toothpaste: Apply a small amount of toothpaste and rub it in circular motions on the light cover. If there are obvious scratches, add more toothpaste and gently rub. After cleaning, the lights will become more transparent. It usually takes about five to six minutes of rubbing, then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
With twenty years of auto repair experience, I've encountered countless cases where headlights fail after rain, mostly due to water seeping into the headlight assembly or wire connectors. Once water gets in, it can cause a short circuit, instantly blowing a fuse, or lead to corroded contacts in the plug, preventing the bulb from lighting up. I recall an old car whose headlights flickered on and off after rain—inspection revealed water accumulation in the lamp socket and rusted wiring. For prevention, always dry the sealing edges around the hood after washing or rain, and regularly check the headlight housing for cracks. Addressing issues promptly can save you from costly major repairs, as prolonged water infiltration can affect the entire vehicle's electrical system. Since headlights are crucial for nighttime driving safety, I recommend seeking professional inspection immediately if problems arise—don't delay, it's both peace of mind and cost-effective.
