I've noticed that the lenses on our headlamp units (not the external polycarb covers) have a smeary "bloom" on them - looks almost like something acquired during original assembly but read on.

Car was bought new in 07 and the headlamps have never been touched bar bulb replacement a few weeks back (Philips Extremes, std. wattage, confirmed ok with dealers) and before anyone asks I had noticed the bloom before - never looked that closely however and just thought it was some condensation misting. Car doesn't get much nighttime use.

Have looked at one Fabia (few months old - apparently same design headlights) for comparison and this was similarly affected but not as much. Local Skoda dealers have been approached and have confirmed several Fabias showing signs but again not as bad as our car.

It's difficult to see - you've got to look pretty closely with the headlights on (from the side - with care!) but it's quite apparent once spotted. Probably losing a few precent light output, hence interest.

Anyone else noticed anything? (Don't all rush out at once to look)

Thanks for any feedback.

You only needed to post once you know

Thanks Decron - reassurance (Fabia forum - only posting once now!) appreciated and would like to leave it at that but I'm going to see about cleaning the lenses anyway - just doesn't look right to me.

I have also noticed that lenses are covered with smeary thing. I noticed it already several months ago and it will get worse during the time.

I have motorbike with similar (lense-type) headlights and it has got same problem. For motorbike it is easy to dismount the headlight, open it (yes, the construction of headlight will allow to do it and close it afterwards) take the lense out and clean them. I have done the cleaning once, using vinegar and the result was good.

But for car I havent examined is it possible to open the headlight so that I'll not destroy any part etc.

Btw, of course I did all necessary headlight resettings when I mount the headlight back to the bike.