Disclaimer***Acura RL V6-3.7L Technical Service Bulletin # 10-021 Date: 100817
Lighting - Moisture In The Tail Lamp(s)
10-021
August 17, 2010
Applies To:
2009-10 RL - ALL
2009-10 RL: Moisture in the Taillight
(Supersedes 10-021, dated July 21, 2010, to revise the information marked by the asterisks)
*REVISION SUMMARY
The BACKGROUND was removed, and the SYMPTOM and the CORRECTIVE ACTION were changed.*
SYMPTOM
*Moisture, fogging, or small water droplets are visible inside one or both taillights. and it doesn't dry up even after several days of dry weather.
NOTE:
Although the updated taillights are an improvement, they aren't sealed units. They're vented to allow a free exchange of air, so some moisture in
the taillights under some conditions is normal.*
PROBABLE CAUSE
High humidity plus insufficient ventilation causes condensation in the taillight(s).
CORRECTIVE ACTION
*Inspect the taillights, and replace them if they are not the updated type. If equipped with updated taillights, replace the taillight vent caps with drain
tubes.
^ DO NOT replace the taillights at PDI; some moisture from shipping is common, but it usually dries up.
^ DO NOT replace updated taillights that have drain tubes installed.*
PARTS INFORMATION
Drain Tube Kit: P/N 06335-TM8-305
Left Taillight Assembly: P/N 33550-SJA-A13
Right Taillight Assembly: P/N 33500-SJA-A13
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
The normal warranty applies.
Failed Part: 33550-SJA-A11
Defect Code: 09999
139
Symptom Code: 01301
Skill Level: Repair Procedure
DIAGNOSIS
1. Check the taillights to see if they been replaced with updated taillights (with slots).
^ If updated taillights are installed, go to REPAIR PROCEDURE, and install drain tube kits.
^ If the original style taillights are installed (no slots), go to REPAIR PROCEDURE, and replace the taillight(s).
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Open the trunk lid, and remove the taillight lid.
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2. Remove the two bolts from the taillight.
3. Remove the maintenance lid in the trunk and the special nut from the taillight.
4. Slightly pull out the taillight, turn the bulb sockets 45 degrees counterclockwise to disconnect them then remove the taillight.
5. Carefully remove the two rubber vent caps from the taillight with a flat-tip screwdriver.
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6. Install drain tubes where the two rubber vent caps were removed. After installing the drain tubes, make sure they face each other at about 45
degrees from vertical as shown.
7. Reinstall the bulb sockets, the taillight, the special nut, the two bolts, and the maintenance lid.
8. If the other taillight has moisture in it, repeat steps 1 thru 7 on that side.
