Maintaining your vehicle’s headlights is essential for ensuring optimal visibility while driving, especially at night or in conditions of limited visibility. However, over time, the plastic lenses of headlights can become foggy and discolored due to exposure to UV rays, which can greatly reduce their effectiveness. Cleaning your headlights is a simple task that can be done at home and will help ensure the safety of you and your passengers. In this article, we will discuss the causes of foggy headlights, the products you can use to clean them, and the step-by-step process for restoring your headlights to their original clarity.
Table of Contents
What Causes Foggy Headlights?
Foggy headlights occur when the plastic lenses of your headlights become discolored and hazy due to exposure to UV rays from the sun. The plastic lenses used in most modern cars are made of polycarbonates, which are known for their durability and scratch resistance. However, over time, the outer layers of these lenses begin to break down and degrade, causing the lenses to absorb blue light from the bulbs and emit a less potent, yellowish light. This can greatly reduce the effectiveness of your headlights and pose a significant safety hazard while driving.
What Products to Use When Cleaning Headlights?
When it comes to cleaning your headlights, there are a variety of products available on the market that can effectively restore the clarity of your lenses. One popular option is a headlight restoration kit, which typically includes a cleaning solution, a sanding pad, and a polishing pad. These kits are specifically designed for cleaning foggy headlights and are easy to use. Another option is to use a homemade solution of baking soda or toothpaste mixed with water. Both of these products are abrasive enough to remove the fog without scratching or damaging the headlights. Polishing compounds such as Rain-X might also be effective enough to remedy UV damage.
Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Headlights
Cleaning your headlights is a simple task that can be done at home with a few basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you restore the clarity of your headlights:
- Clean the Surface of Debris: Before you begin, make sure to work with a clean surface. Use a mild cleaner to remove any dirt, particulates, dead bugs, or gunk that may have accumulated on the surface of your headlights.
- Towel Dry: After cleaning, use a dry towel or rag to wipe down the surface of your headlights until they are moisture-free.
- Apply Headlight Restorer: Apply a thick layer of your chosen headlight restoration product – whether it is a commercial product or a homemade Apply a thick layer of your chosen headlight restoration product – whether it is a commercial product or a homemade solution – to your headlights. If using a baking soda solution, make sure to mix it with a small amount of water first to form a thick paste. Leave the solution on the lens for a few minutes to allow it to dry slightly.
- Remove Cleanser with Brush: Using circular motions, work your way around the surface of the headlight gently with a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to gouge into the plastic surface as the cleanser is abrasive. You should see the yellowing or fogging disappearing from the lens as you work.
- Clean off Excess Cleanser: Use a clean rag or towel to buff away any remaining solution from the surface of your headlights. Repeat the process if necessary.
It’s important to note that you should avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or sandpaper, as they can scratch the lens and cause further damage. Also, it’s always better to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the lens.
How to Clean the Inside of a Sealed Headlight?
In addition to cleaning the exterior of your headlights, it’s also important to maintain the inside of sealed headlights. Sealed headlights are factory-sealed units that are designed to be maintenance-free, but over time, the inside of these units can become dirty and collect moisture, which can cause condensation to form inside the lens. This can greatly reduce the effectiveness of your headlights and pose a significant safety hazard while driving. Here’s a guide on how to clean the inside of a sealed headlight:
- Remove the Headlight: The first step is to remove the headlight from your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to do this.
- Clean the Inside of the Headlight: Once the headlight is removed, use a clean rag or towel to wipe down the inside of the lens. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated inside the lens.
- Dry the Inside of the Headlight: Use a clean, dry rag or towel to dry the inside of the lens. Make sure to remove any remaining moisture.
- Apply Silica Gel: Once the inside of the lens is clean and dry, you can apply silica gel to the inside of the lens. Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture and will help keep the inside of the lens dry.
- Reinstall the Headlight: After the inside of the lens is clean, dry, and treated with silica gel, reinstall the headlight on your vehicle according to the instructions in your owner’s manual.
It’s important to note that if you notice any signs of damage, such as cracks or holes in the lens, it may be best to replace the headlight unit entirely. Cleaning the inside of a sealed headlight may not be a permanent solution and it’s recommended to check the headlight regularly and keep an eye out for any moisture or condensation inside the lens. Regularly inspecting your headlights for any damage or signs of moisture will help ensure optimal visibility and safety while driving.
In addition to cleaning your headlights, it’s also important to consider the best aftermarket headlight brands when looking to upgrade your vehicle’s lighting. YITAMOTOR, Anzo USA, Parts Geek, HeadlightsDepot, and BuyAutoParts are considered to be among the top brands in the aftermarket headlight assembly industry. They are known for producing high-quality, innovative products that offer improved performance and style.
Final verdict
In conclusion, cleaning your headlights is a simple task that can be done at home to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. It is important to regularly clean your headlights to maintain their effectiveness and avoid foggy lenses. Choosing the best aftermarket headlight brands is also an important factor to consider when looking to upgrade your vehicle’s lighting. Remember to always prioritize safety overlooks and make sure to clean your headlights regularly.
