How to Clear Up Clouded Headlights

Many car manufacturers have converted to using a high-impact plastic product for headlight lenses. Though this is a lighter, more economical material, after a few years the lenses can become quite clouded. Clouded headlights are not only a cosmetic issue, but a safety issue as well, so clearing up clouded headlights can be an important detailing element. While it does require a bit of elbow grease, it does not require expensive products to get sparkling clear headlights.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Car cut polish
• Cotton rags

1. Wash the headlight lenses thoroughly with plain water. Remove any bugs or dirt.

2. Read the instructions on the cut polish can carefully. Some products need to be worked with wet, while others need to be dry. Follow whatever instructions your manufacturer recommends.

3. Apply the cut polish directly to the headlight lens with a clean, dry cotton rag.

4. Rub the cut polish around the lens vigorously. Apply the polish to the entire lens surface using small circles.

5. Stop rubbing when the polish begins to dry. It will become stiff and more difficult to spread.

6. Turn the rag over to expose a clean surface. Rub the surface of the lens, using firm pressure. This may take a minute or two and some serious work, depending on how clouded up your headlights have become.

7. Keep working and buffing the surface of the headlight lens until it is clear and all the polish has been removed.

8. Repeat for the other headlight.

Tips & Warnings

• Use this technique for your fog lights and tail lights, too.