How to Restore a Hazy Car Headlight

Car headlights are one of the most noticeable parts of the car, and whether they work adequately or not, faded or hazy car headlights significantly diminish the appearance and the value of the car on which they are installed. Hazing of the headlights of a car is caused by UV exposure, scratches from rocks and other debris thrown from the roadway, and water entering the headlight enclosure. When water enters the headlight, the light cannot be repaired. You may be able to clean and polish the inside of the light, but you'll have to disassemble the enclosure to do so, and you can't prevent leaks in the headlight once its been opened.

You can identify damage that can be repaired by rubbing the exterior of the headlight with your finger. A good light that does not need repair will have a smooth feel to it. On the other hand, a headlight that feels like it has a light grainy texture can be repaired.

Begin by gathering the tools you'll need. You'll need a bucket with soapy water, 1,000-grit and 2,000-grit wet/dry sandpaper, polishing compound and an electric orbital buffer.

Wet the 1,000-grit sandpaper with soapy water, and then use it to sand down the surface of the headlight. You don't have to press too hard, but it's very important to keep the sandpaper wet. Once there is a cloudy haze on the plastic headlight, change to the 2,000-grit wet/dry sandpaper and continue sanding the plastic headlight. The haze will be lessened, and you will find that the finer grit sandpaper produces a much lighter hazing.

Apply a small amount of polishing compound to the headlight, and then set the orbital buffer to between 1,500 and 2,000 RPM. Avoid using higher speeds because the polishing pad can easily build up heat and melt through the headlight, permanently damaging it. Work slowly and carefully, avoiding applying pressure to the polishing pad while you work. This will polish the headlight until the scuffs in the plastic have been completely repaired.

After you have repaired the headlight by removing the yellowed surface, it is important to protect the headlight lens from further damage. Apply a coat of high-quality wax on the light every time you wax your car, and the UV protection should be noticeably improved. You may still have to clean and polish the headlight lens occasionally, however.

" Automotive Detailing: A Complete Car Guide for Auto Enthusiasts and Detailing Professionals"; Don Taylor; 1998