Learn How to Restore Headlights in an Afternoon

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If your headlights could use some TLC, you can shine them up to a glossy finish in just under an hour. While many customers wonder how to restore headlights, the process is surprisingly simple! Follow our guidelines below to prepare for your next DIY project.

What Happened to My Headlights?

If your once-brilliant headlights are coated with a cloudy haze, it's perfectly normal. The polycarbonate plastic surface may be durable against scratches and nicks, but it's sensitive to the sun's UV rays. Over time, those rays can degrade the plastic and create a dull and dim appearance.

What Can I Do?

Cloudy headlights don't shine as brightly, which can affect your nighttime driving. Luckily, you can find headlight restoration kits at any auto shop. The staff at Elgin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram would be happy to point you toward our favorite brands that will bring back the luster in your vehicle, so stop by our service department at any time! You can also assemble your own kit with the following supplies:

• Low-tack masking tape
• Wet/dry sandpaper (1000-grit, 1500-grit, 2000-grit, 2500-grit, and 3000-grit)
• Polishing compound
• Paste car wax
• UV protectant
• Spray bottle
• Clean flannel or microfiber cloth
• Orbital polisher with wool or terrycloth pad (optional)

What is the restoration process?

Start by giving your car a thorough wash to remove any dirt and debris on the surface, and feel free to throw in a wax if you'd like. Then, let's get started!

• Protect your paint by taping off the headlights with blue painter's tape, which is less tacky than most types. Some drivers prefer to remove decorative chrome trim to protect it from scratches and smudges.
• Soak your roughest sandpaper, 1000-grit, and begin to sand the surface of the headlight in one direction. Cover the whole surface, and don't let the paper dry. Clean and dry the area.
• Soak your 1500-grit sandpaper and sand in the opposite direction of your last sanding. Follow the same procedure, then clean and dry again. Repeat this process with the 2000-, 2500-, and 3000-grit sandpapers.
• Apply polishing compound to your flannel or microfiber and rub into the clean headlight in a circular motion. Take your time! An orbital sander can make the process faster. Clean up the remaining compound.
• Apply the paste car wax to seal out water and debris, let dry, and finish off with a layer of UV sealant.