Headlights Looking Cloudy? Here’s How to Polish Them

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Headlight Restoration | ER Autocare

When you are driving at night, in the rain, or in other dark conditions, you are relying on your headlights to help you see what’s in front of you and to help other drivers see you. Your lights come with a special coating to make them resistant to wear, but it is still possible for the plastic on your lights to become dull after repeated exposure to the elements and harsh chemicals.

When this happens those lights you are depending on become cloudy. While most automotive services and repairs are best left to the experts, ER Auto Care wants you to know that you can brighten up your headlights in three easy steps.

Gather Your Supplies

The first thing you need to do is gather your supplies. There are some online stores that make it easy by selling ready made headlight cleaning kits, but you can also assemble your own with a quick trip to the auto parts store.

Your headlight cleaning kit should include gloves, soap and water, a clean microfiber cloth, sandpaper, plastic polish, and sandpaper.

Polished Headlights in Three Easy Steps

Once you have your supplies and a safe workspace it is time to get started.

Prep Your Vehicle

It is important to prep the headlight area by thoroughly cleaning it with car safe soap and water. Once the area is dry, it is time to start taping. Place your painter’s tape around the headlights to protect your car’s paint.

Sand Your Light Cover

Soak your sandpaper in clean water for 30 seconds to a minute, then rub it from right to left on the plastic light cover. We recommend that you use sandpaper that is 1,500 grit. If absolutely necessary you can also move up to 2,500. Now rinse the area and repeat, going vertically from top to bottom.

Polish Your Headlights

Once the sanding process is complete, it is time to polish. Wash your headlight cover with soapy water and then thoroughly dry it. Put on your protective gloves and firmly rub the plastic polish into the headlight cover using a circular polishing motion. Allow the polish to dry and then buff it away using a soft, clean cloth. Voila, polished headlights.

How to Maintain Your Clear Headlights

Keep your headlights looking bright by cleaning them regularly with a mild detergent. And when you need to change your headlamp bulbs, consult with the experts at Plain City, OH‘s ER Auto Care for the bulb that is right for your car, or simply bring your car in and we will do it for you.

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