How Do You Remove Headlight Glaze?

You can remove headlight glaze using several methods, including DIY techniques like toothpaste or WD-40, or by using dedicated headlight restoration kits.

DIY Methods for Removing Headlight Glaze

Several affordable DIY methods can effectively remove light headlight glaze:

• Toothpaste:

  1. Clean the headlight surface with soap and water and dry thoroughly.
  2. Apply a generous amount of non-gel toothpaste to a clean cloth.
  3. Rub the toothpaste onto the headlight in a circular motion, applying moderate pressure.
  4. Continue rubbing for several minutes.
  5. Rinse the headlight thoroughly with water.
  6. Dry with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat this process for optimal results.

• WD-40:

  1. Clean the headlight surface with soap and water and dry thoroughly.
  2. Spray WD-40 generously onto the headlight.
  3. Wipe the headlight with a clean cloth, applying moderate pressure.
  4. Continue wiping until the haze is removed.
  5. Clean the headlight with glass cleaner to remove any remaining WD-40 residue.

Headlight Restoration Kits

Headlight restoration kits provide a more comprehensive approach and often include sanding pads, polishing compounds, and UV protectants:

1. Preparation: Clean the headlight surface thoroughly.
2. Sanding: Use the included sandpaper (typically starting with a coarser grit and moving to finer grits) to remove the oxidized layer. Wet-sanding is often recommended.
3. Polishing: Apply the polishing compound included in the kit and buff the headlight using a polishing pad or cloth.
4. Protection: Apply the UV protectant sealant to prevent future oxidation.

Professional Services

For heavily glazed headlights, professional detailing services offer specialized equipment and expertise for optimal results.

Factors Contributing to Headlight Glaze

Headlight glaze is primarily caused by oxidation due to UV exposure from sunlight and environmental factors. This oxidation creates a hazy or yellowed appearance on the headlight lens.