Car headlights help to see clearly at night and make the vehicle more prominent. As they play a major role in keeping you safe on the road, it is essential to keep them fully clean. Over time, the headlight can become yellow and foggy due to different factors such as dirt, pollution and exposure to sunlight. Dull headlights not only affect the appearance of your car but also affect visibility while driving.
A lot of drivers don’t know how to clean car headlights properly, some end up with smudges on the surface. In this guide, we’ll share some particle tips on how to clean car headlights at home and when you need to consider professional car cleaning services.
Why Do Headlights Turn Yellow or Cloudy?
Let’s start with the first question that every driver has in mind. There is a reason why car headlights turn so foggy. Headlights are made from polycarbonate plastic, which is durable but prone to damage. When they are exposed to sunlight, harsh weather, and road debris, oxidation takes place. Due to this, the clear plastic surface turns cloudy or yellow. Other common reasons include:
- Dirt and grime build-up from the road
- Water spots or mineral deposits
- Exposure to car wash chemicals is not suited for plastics
- Small scratches from improper cleaning tools
But you don’t need to worry at all. The oxidative and other damage can be repaired with simple tips to clean car headlights.
Tools and Products You’ll Need To Clean Car Headlights
Before starting, make sure you have the right tools. By using the proper items, you can prevent damaging the surface of the car.
Tools:
- Microfibre cloths
- Masking tape
- Sponge or applicator pad
- Spray bottle
- Water bucket
Products:
- Car shampoo
- Headlight cleaning solution or restoration kit
- Polishing compound
- Car wax or sealant
If you don’t have a headlight cleaning kit, you can still achieve good results using simple household items. In this blog, we’ll explain that too.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Car Headlights
Step 1: Wash the Headlight Surface
The first step to clean car headlights is to wash the surface with car shampoo and water. Use soft material like a sponge or a microfibre cloth to avoid scratches. The application of shampoo and water helps in removing the dust and debris from the headlight. This step makes the headlights smooth and prevents any particles from sticking during the polishing step.
Step 2: Tape the Surrounding Area
When you use products with heavy chemicals to clean car headlights, it can damage the nearby surfaces. So to prevent this, make sure to use masking tape around the headlight surface to protect nearby areas on the car. Your car exterior can be protected from unwanted damage with this simple tip to clean car headlights.
Step 3: Apply Headlight Cleaner or Restoration Compound
If you’re using a headlight cleaner, then it can be directly sprayed onto the headlight surface. But when it comes to the restoration compound, you have to apply it with the help of a sponge. Now, after application of the product, spread it evenly with the help of circular motion. This step to clean car headlights removes oxidized layers from the surface.
If you are considering using a restoration kit, then make sure to follow the instructions on the package. Some may require you to let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. This step may need to be repeated 2 or 3 times for tougher stains.
Step 4: Polish the Headlights
The next step to clean car headlights is to polish the surface. Polishing the headlight makes it appear smooth and clear. Simply apply a small amount of polish product on a microfibre pad. Now, move the microfibre pad in circular motion to thoroughly apply the polish. After a few minutes, remove, wipe the headlight with a microfibre cloth to remove any residue.
Step 5: Apply a Protective Layer
This last step for cleaning car headlights is an important one. After polishing, apply a thin layer of wax or sealant on the headlight. The protective layer helps to prevent oxidation by reflecting UV rays away. This maintains the shine for longer. You can apply the protective layer each month to make your headlight always look clear.
DIY Alternatives for Headlight Cleaning
There are also some cheaper home remedies that can help you to clean car headlights. Below is the procedure to clean car headlights with the help of simple everyday products:
Baking Soda and Vinegar:
Take a small amount of baking soda and mix it with vinegar to form a paste. Apply the paste on the headlights by using micro microfiber cloth and rub in circular motions. After a few minutes, rinse and dry the surface. This solution to clean car headlights is not ideal, but it can come in handy when you need quick cleaning.
Toothpaste:
Toothpaste contains tiny abrasive compounds that can help in removing rust from headlights. Just apply a small amount of toothpaste on the headlight surface and rub with the help of a soft cloth. After a few minutes, rinse with clean water. Make sure to dry the surface properly to prevent water spots. This method can give quick results, but for a better spotless glow, we recommend proper car detailing services.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Headlights Clear
To clean car headlights seems like a challenge, but with a few maintenance tips, this headlight cleaning process can become a hassle-free experience. Follow these tips for clear headlights:
- Wash your headlights regularly when you clean your car.
- Apply a protective wax or sealant every two to three months.
- Park your car in the shade to reduce UV exposure.
- Avoid harsh chemicals not meant for car plastics.
- Use microfibre cloths instead of rough brushes.
When to Seek Professional Headlight Restoration
If your headlights are severely oxidised or scratched, a professional cleaning service can help. At Gold Hand Car Wash, we use high-quality restoration products and advanced techniques to bring your headlights back to life.
You can get clean car headlights by opting for car detailing or inside and out services by Gold Hand Car Wash. Our professional headlight restoration can:
- Improve brightness and road visibility
- Remove deep oxidation and scratches.
- Prevent further yellowing
- Add long-term UV protection
If you’re in High Point or nearby Melbourne suburbs, our trained detailers are ready to help. You can visit our wash menu to get further details about our car cleaning packages.
Clean car headlights make the vehicle look fresh and improve clarity for drivers. Home remedies can help to restore the glow of headlights, but for even thorough service, make sure to visit professional car cleaning locations such as Gold Hand Car Wash in Maribrynong.
FAQs:
Why does my car’s headlight turn yellow?
Car headlights are made up of polycarbonate plastic. When they are exposed to sunlight, they become oxidized, resulting in a yellow color.
How can I clean car headlights at home?
You can use a professional car cleaning kit to clean car headlights at home. You can also use simple remedies like toothpaste and baking soda and a vinegar combo to remove the oxidized layer from the headlight.
Should I get my car headlights cleaned by professional car cleaners?
Yes, professional car cleaners deal with your car delicately and precisely to remove dirt and restore shine, which would otherwise be difficult to do at home.
Does car detailing include service to clean car headlights?
Yes, car detailing is a thorough car service that involves cleaning the car’s interior and exterior. Headlight cleaning is also included in this service.
Can I clean car headlights with just shampoo and water?
Yes, but we also recommend using polish and protective layers to prevent water spots and maintain the clarity of the headlight surface.