Headlights are very important when it comes to the aesthetic value of a car, with time they develop a dull layer that reduces the bright and good look. This layer is mainly oxidation and can be easily removed to restore the original gloss of the lenses. This guide shows the different ways you can use to bring out the original beauty of the headlights.
In order to ascertain whether your headlight needs restoration, you have to observe them with the lights switched off, if they look cloudy. dull or they have scratches then definitely its time to get some headlight restoration kit. Replacing the entire headlight could come as an expensive quick fix, but why waste some money while you can fix them with these simple methods.
- Toothpaste
Apart from giving you a fresh breath and white teeth, toothpaste has scraping properties that could remove the oxides on your headlight, just the same way it does with discolored teeth. If you chose toothpaste as the way to go, then consider the one with fewer crystals and less cleaning agents that may scratch the lenses, Apply small amounts to a cloth and polish in circular motions until the discoloration is gone. Clean the headlights thoroughly after the desired outcome.
- Baking Soda
Just like toothpaste Baking soda has abrasive properties that may help eliminate any lackluster on the headlights. Before using baking soda ensure the headlights are clean and dry, using a cloth rub the lenses in circular motions to ensure you don’t miss a spot until the dullness is eliminated. Make sure to clean after the desired result is achieved.
- Restoration kit
This is perfect for dull and scratched headlights as well, it consists of a rubbing compound, masking tape, abrasive discs with different grit ratings and an orange foam compounding disc. Before using the kit you need to mask the area around the headlight to protect the paint from scratches and of course safety for yourself is not an option, put on some gloves, dust mask, and goggles. The drill used should be kept at 1200-1600 rpm.
- Steps to follow
1. Start with the P500 grit abrasive disc to your drill, use light to medium pressure. Circular motion is advised but it doesn’t make any difference, it simply ensures you don’t miss a spot. Keep the motion back and forth.
2. Wipe the lens and change the disc to p800 repeat the same technique, observing as the scratches get scoured away.
3. Change the disc to p3000, repeat the same procedure and make sure to clean the surfaces of the lens before swapping the discs. Wet sanding is recommended at this step, keep the lens and disc surfaces moist. this removes the finer sand scratches, wipe off all the dirt and clean the surface. After this step, all the imperfections on the lens have been removed. Polish with the orange foam pad to bring out the gloss out of your lens.
These simple methods can ensure that your headlight is looking perfect all the time regardless of the age of your car.