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If you have an older car, chances are your headlights have started to get a little cloudy. Sometimes, they might even look yellow or be covered in scratches. It happens. Luckily, there are a number of easy and affordable ways to make your headlights look brand new (or pretty close anyway). Here’s a look at six methods that are known to work wonders on your headlights.
1. Use a Headlight Restoration Kit
There are some affordable headlight restoration kits out there. You can find them on Amazon for as little as $10. Most kits will include sandpaper, polish, and a YV sealant. The kit will come with step-by-step instructions that will walk you through what you need to do to make your headlights shine like new. Overall, the process takes somewhere between 30 and 45 minutes.
2. Try Toothpaste for a Quick Fix
Believe it or not, regular white toothpaste (not gel) can help remove grime and light oxidation. Apply a generous amount to a microfiber cloth and rub it into the headlight in a circular motion. The mild abrasive in toothpaste acts like a fine sandpaper, helping to polish the surface. Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe clean with a dry cloth.
3. Sand and Polish for a Deeper Clean
If your headlights are severely foggy or scratched, sanding and polishing might be necessary. Start by taping off the area around the headlights to protect your paint. Use wet/dry sandpaper in stages—starting with 600 grit, then moving to 1,000 and 2,000 grit. After sanding, apply a plastic polish with a clean cloth and buff in circular motions.
4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
A natural cleaning method involves mixing baking soda and vinegar into a paste. Apply this mixture directly to the headlight using a soft cloth and rub in circular motions. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water. The chemical reaction helps break down grime and light oxidation. It’s eco-friendly and safe for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals.
5. Apply a UV Sealant or Protective Coating
After cleaning or restoring your headlights, a UV sealant is essential to prevent them from turning yellow again. UV rays are one of the main causes of headlight clouding, so protection is key. Many headlight kits include a sealant, or you can buy one separately. Clean and dry the headlight completely before applying a thin, even coat of sealant. Let it dry according to the instructions and avoid washing your car for 24 hours for the best results.
6. Replace the Headlight Lens or Assembly
If your headlights are cracked or extremely damaged, replacing the lens or full assembly might be the best option. You can purchase replacement parts online or from an auto parts store at various price points. Some models make lens replacement easy, while others require full assembly swaps. Installation often involves removing screws or clips and disconnecting the wiring harness.
Bring Back the Shine With a Little Effort
If you want to make your headlights look brand new, it’s totally possible. You don’t have to spend a ton of money, replace them, or even go to a shop. There are some fairly easy quick fixes that will get you the results you’re looking for. Once you restore your headlights, keeping them looking good will require regular cleanings, but it’ll be worth it once you see the way your car looks. Not to mention, it will lead to improved visibility and increase your car’s safety at night. So, what are you waiting for? Try one of these methods and let us know the results.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.