The hard work and time spend waxing and polishing the car pay off when you ride that sparkling shiny speedy beast on the roads. The surface isn’t the only thing that contributes to the aesthetics. Not paying attention to some elements can ruin the overall look. This counts for the headlights if they start turning cloudy. The right term is oxidized headlights. Most of the drivers assume that it can’t be fixed. They soon adjust to the cloudy look running their edgy car look or go to the shop to replace it with a new expensive set. The good news is that you can make the old headlights as good as new with little efforts, grease, and the love for style.
Why Headlights Get Cloudy?
The cloudy or oxidized headlight wasn’t a problem until the 1980s. All this started since the carmakers began to use plastic instead of glass for making headlights. If you own a classic model, then stop right here as you don’t need to move forward. However, if you own a new model, then sadly, the headlights must be made out of plastic. The plastic used in it is tempered polycarbonate plastic. The plastic is tough in strength but is porous at the same time.
A special protective film is added on top of it to subtract the counter effect. In the beginning, you wouldn’t find an issue, but the film doesn’t last long. With time, the protective film breaks down by the head generated through the bulb, small stones from the asphalt, or chemical spray from the road surface. Once the layer has worn out completely, then the sun rays containing UV light start acting through the porous material of the headlights by oxidation. This damage can be reversed if it happened outside. However, if you notice tiny droplets of moisture inside, then the problem is bigger than you think. It usually happens during installation when the moisture enters inside the headlight. Oxidative takes place on both surfaces, and the only solution you have is a replacement. You can try the same tricks after removing them for any attempts at repair to be effective.
How To Clean Oxidized Headlights?
Let’s move forward and discuss how you can clean oxidized headlights and get the sleek look of your car back.
Cleaning Headlights: DIY With A Toothpaste
MATERIALS
- Soft cloth/sponge
- Toothpaste (any kind)
- Car wax
- Masking tape
- Water
- Plastic or vinyl gloves (optional for those with sensitive skin)
METHOD
- Wash the headlights with soap using water and cloth/sponge rubbing it back and forth, then wipe it off using plain water. Let it dry and then observe the headlights closely again.
- Cover the surrounding area with masking tape to save it from accidental scuffing.
- Use plastic or vinyl gloves to avoid damaging your skin. Make the soft cloth wet in water and dab it with toothpaste.
- Rub the headlights with it making small circles. You can add more water to it if needed. Do this for at least five minutes.
- Wash it off with water and leave it to dry.
- Apply car wax to it using a clean cloth and rinse it with water. Do it in a circular motion to avoid scratches. This will protect the headlights from future damage.
SCIENCE BEHIND USING TOOTHPASTE
Toothpaste can easily remove the plaque from the enamel of your teeth. It works in the same way for the stains on your headlights. Toothpaste and gels contain mild abrasives, which buffs the surface for a cleaner and even feel giving headlights a sparkling shine.
Cleaning Headlights: DIY With A Glass Cleaner And Automotive Polish
MATERIALS
- Soft cloth
- Water
- Masking tape
- Plastic or vinyl gloves (optional for those with sensitive skin)
- Rotary buffer (optional)
- Automotive polish
- Glass cleaner
- Car wax
METHOD
- Wash the headlights with soap using water and cloth/sponge rubbing it back and forth, then wipe it off using plain water. Let it dry and then observe the headlights closely again.
- Cover the surrounding area with masking tape to save it from accidental scuffing.
- Use plastic or vinyl gloves to avoid damaging your skin. Spray the glass cleaner generously on the headlight and wipe the surface clean with a soft cloth.
- After this, use automotive polis using a soft cloth and rub the surface in a circular motion. Use a rotatory buffer for the polish to speed it up. Do this for at least five minutes.
- Wash it off with water and apply car wax to it using a clean cloth and rinse it with water to protect it from future damage.
SCIENCE BEHIND USING A GLASS CLEANER AND AUTOMOTIVE POLISH
The standard glass cleaner and automotive polish contain slightly more coarse abrasives than toothpaste, which buffs the surface, giving it a bright refinement.
Cleaning Headlights: DIY With A Polishing Compound Kit
MATERIALS
- Cloth
- Masking tape
- Mild detergents like dish soap or kit-included cleanser
- Car wax or kit-included sealant
- Polishing compound
- Sandpaper array (600- and 2500-grit)
- Water
METHOD
- Cover the surrounding area with masking tape to save it from accidental scuffing. Use plastic or vinyl gloves to avoid damaging your skin.
- Wash the headlights with a mild detergent in your kit using water and then wipe it off using plain water. Let it dry and then observe the headlights closely again.
- Use a different cloth piece to apply the polishing compound in a circular motion. Keep it there for five minutes allowing the compound to work.
- Use wet sandpaper dipped in cold water to rub the headlights in back and forth motion. Dip it again and again if needed. Repeat it with different sandpaper from coarsest to smoothest grade.
- Wash the polishing compound with plain water. Apply car wax to protect it from future damage.
SCIENCE BEHIND USING A POLISHING COMPOUND KIT
A polishing compound kit contains most chemicals needed to resurface oxidized lights for an intensive DIY repair. You can find it at an auto shop or purchase it online.
In case any of the above-listed methods don’t bring the clarity of your headlights back, then sign up for a professional cleaning surface to find the actual reason behind it and help you to bring the shiny headlights back.