Why Do Headlights Go Yellow and/or Cloudy?
Well your headlights sit outside the car in the elements at all times. Over time, the lens becomes discoloured and faded due to the UV light rays that the sun provides. The best way to fix this issue is to clean the lens and then protect it from the same conditions that caused the problem in the first place.
How Do I Restore My Headlights?
Well, much like restoring your cars’ paint, it requires plenty of time, love and care.
You’re going to want high-grade sandpaper, one at around 1200 grit and the finishing paper that is around 2000 grit, a cutting and polishing compound, and a microfiber towel.
- You need to start by cleaning the headlight with water and a cloth to get rid of as many contaminants as possible.
- You can then wet sand the headlights with the 1200 sandpaper in a criss-cross fashion. Once the whole headlight has been lightly sanded, you’ll need to clean the headlights with your water and cloth again.
- Now move on to the 2000 grit and wet sand again to properly finish the headlights and remove and deep scratches and poor finish.
- Get your cutting and polishing compound and the microfibre towel and really scrub the headlights.
- Now get a clean cloth and buff the headlights until they’re sparkling like brand new.
- If they are still a little cloudy, you can have another go with the 2000 paper and cutting and polishing compound.
- Now, to prevent further yellowing or cloudy-ness in the future, get high-quality and high-strength car cleaning wax and apply it liberally to the headlights. Apply the wax every time you clean the car and your headlights will reflect your hard work.
Hopefully you now know how to restore your headlights.
If you need a bit more info on headlight restoration, click here.
Now that your headlights are crystal clear, why not do a bit more DIY on your car? You can find other “How To” guides right here.