(V12) Vantage headlamp washer problem

(V12) Vantage headlamp washer problem

Author
Discussion

disco666

Original Poster:

236 posts

153 months

Thursday 18th January
quotequote all
My off side headlamp washer has a fault- it is not retracting properly after use.
It pops out, squirts water and then refracts partially, but it doesn't go fully back properly to fit snugly into the aperture.
It is as if something has come off its runner inside.

Has anybody else had a similar problem.

Somebody told me I could grab the washer as it pops out and try and look inside, but I wouldn't want to do this if it might cause further damage.
Somebody also told me that it was a big job to get to this part, panels off etc. Somebody please tell me this isn't true, it sounds like a lot of expense for such a small problem!

Experience/assistance/advice would be much appreciated.
Thank you.

Froomee

1,430 posts

176 months

Thursday 18th January
quotequote all
This happened on my V8 and it was the bracket attached to the headlight that had broken (it’s a common issue).

I think this can be repaired but the only other option is a new headlight.

disco666

Original Poster:

236 posts

153 months

Thursday 18th January
quotequote all
Thanks Froomee,

Did you have a new headlamp?
Did it entail much work?

Froomee

1,430 posts

176 months

Thursday 18th January
quotequote all
My car was under warranty at the time (fortunately) so they replaced the headlamp free of charge, from memory the lugs become brittle and break.

I don’t think it’s a huge amount of work but the headlights are expensive (if buying a replacement ). If my car wasn’t under warranty I’d have got it plastic welded/braced it with metal which should be easy enough once off the car.

https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...

If you search the forum there will be more information but the thread above covers it (assuming it’s the same issue).

Edited by Froomee on Thursday 18th January 19:17

PatCub

247 posts

123 months

Thursday 18th January
quotequote all
I make and sell on Ebay a repair piece for the headlight washer mount.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116043521214

DB9S Paul

137 posts

39 months

Friday 19th January
quotequote all
PatCub said:
I make and sell on Ebay a repair piece for the headlight washer mount.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116043521214
I've used Pat's repair parts, much better designed and stronger than the original - great value too.

Wheel Arch Liner, front Undertray and airbox out to remove headlight.

4Q

3,480 posts

151 months

Friday 19th January
quotequote all
PatCub said:
I make and sell on Ebay a repair piece for the headlight washer mount.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/116043521214
Will this fit a DBS headlamp?

PatCub

247 posts

123 months

Friday 19th January
quotequote all
Not sure if this will fit other models, but if you are near North Norfolk or want to send it to me I can model one to fit.

disco666

Original Poster:

236 posts

153 months

Friday 19th January
quotequote all
Thank you all for your help. It sounds like this is the problem I have. I've contacted PatCub directly with a view to taking this route.

DB9S Paul

137 posts

39 months

Friday 19th January
quotequote all
4Q said:
Will this fit a DBS headlamp?
Yes, I've fitted them

disco666

Original Poster:

236 posts

153 months

Wednesday 21st February
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So I had this done last weekend and for anybody interested I can definitely recommend this.

Pat is extremely knowledgable and helpful, and a really nice guy.

Both sides were done in a day despite the broken one being more badly damaged than expected.
The other side was done as a precautionary measure.

While the work was being done we stayed overnight in one of Pat's holiday cottage, which was also excellent.

So we had the job done, together with an overnight stay in beautiful Norfolk, for less than half the price it would have cost at a dealer.
And used upgraded parts, so less chance of a recurring problem.

ReformedPistonhead

965 posts

144 months

Wednesday 21st February
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Wish I had seen these parts before I went crazy with epoxy resin fixing mine with bits of cut off bolts.

The job is a massive PITA, make sure to fully mask up your headlight before removal and don’t take the protection off until you get it back together.