Are your headlights shining bright? If not, you might want to do something about it. Clean, clear and bright headlights are essential and extremely important when driving at night or when visibility is poor.. Cloudy headlights are surprisingly dangerous wherever you go. However, they are especially dangerous when driving on poorly lit roads.
Headlights are mandatory between sunset and sunrise. It is also highly recommended for use at dawn or dusk, in inclement weather or poor visibility conditions. When you need to use your headlights, it is very important that yellowing or clouding does not compromise the light they produce.
Why are the headlights blurry?
Almost all headlight covers are made of polycarbonate plastic with a coating that protects against sunlight damage. However, this protective layer breaks down when exposed to sunlight. The resulting dullness and yellowing can reduce the headlight power by approximately 80%.
Depending on how much you drive during the day, your headlight covers will likely need to be replaced every three to five years. Where you drive the car most of the time can also affect this breakdown program. Sunny locations and strong sunlight at high altitudes will accelerate degradation.
Ideally, you should replace your headlights when you notice that your headlights are losing light. However, this solution can be expensive. AAA estimates the cost of headlight replacement to be between $130 and $430, depending on whether you do it yourself with aftermarket parts or professionally installed OEM parts. Fortunately, there is another option that is much cheaper.
How do you restore your cloudy headlights?
Your favorite local auto parts store probably sells it headlight restoration kits These kits usually contain everything you need to restore your car’s headlights. If you prefer to use materials you have on hand, it is recommended that you get paint tape, high-grit sandpaper (2500 and 3200 grit), polishing compound, a clean microfiber towel, and UV sealer before you begin.
The purpose of headlight restoration is to remove oxidation in the polycarbonate housing. You’ll start by washing and drying the headlights. Then tape around the headlights to avoid damaging your car’s paintwork. After that it’s time to start wet sanding with 2500 grit sandpaper.. Take your time and do a thorough job to get the best results.
Remove the mud and repeat the process with 3500 grit sandpaper. After washing off the residue, apply the polishing agent and rub in small circular motions with the towel. Polish the composition until the headlight is clear. Then apply UV concealer to protect your newly cleaned headlights from the yellowing effects of the sun.
Keep in mind that your headlights won’t be “as good as new” if you go the restoration route. AAA estimates that they will produce around 70% of the light produced by the new headlights. However, this cost-effective option will only cost you about $20 if you do it yourself, or about $190 if you get the job done by a professional.
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