How to Clean Your Car's Headlights Yourself: What Can You Use?

(Photo Credit: freepik)

If your car's headlights are starting to look yellow or foggy, don’t worry! You don’t need to spend a ton of money to fix them.

Here are some easy DIY tips and tricks to get your headlights looking shiny and new again.

Why Do Car Headlights Turn Yellow?

Yellow or foggy headlights are a common issue for older cars. Here’s why it happens:

• Sunlight (UV Rays): UV rays from the sun react with the plastic on your headlights, causing it to degrade and turn yellow over time.
• Dust and Dirt: Dirt, oil, bugs, and soot that accumulate on the headlights can become baked on by the heat of the sun, creating stubborn stains.
• Chemicals: Certain cleaning agents or environmental pollutants can react with the plastic, leading to discoloration.
• Heat from Bulbs: High heat from the headlight bulbs can cause the plastic to deteriorate faster, contributing to yellowing.

How to Clean Yellowed Headlights

Clean with Toothpaste

• What You’ll Need:
  • White toothpaste (without beads or gel)
  • A clean cloth
  • Water
• Steps:
  • Wash the headlights with clean water and dry them.
  • Apply toothpaste directly to the headlight surface.
  • Rub the toothpaste in circular motions with the cloth, covering the entire headlight.
  • Rinse off with water and dry with a clean cloth.
  • Repeat if necessary for better results.

(Photo Credit: freepik)

Clean with Baking Soda and Vinegar or Lemon

• What You’ll Need:
  • 2 tablespoons of baking soda
  • A small amount of vinegar or lemon juice
  • A clean cloth or sponge
• Steps:
  • Mix the baking soda and vinegar (or lemon juice) into a paste.
  • Apply the paste to the headlight.
  • Use the cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface.
  • Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Clean with Sandpaper

• What You’ll Need:
  • Wet/dry sandpaper (320 and 1,000 grit)
  • Clear coat spray or polishing compound
• Steps:
  • Wet the sandpaper and headlight surface.
  • Start with the 320-grit sandpaper and sand evenly over the headlight.
  • Switch to the 1,000-grit sandpaper and repeat until the surface looks smooth.
  • Apply a clear coat spray or polish for added shine and protection.

(Photo Credit: freepik)

Clean with Multipurpose Cleaner

• What You’ll Need:
  • Multipurpose cleaner
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Water
  • Gloves (optional)
  • Masking tape (optional)
• Steps:
  • Clean the headlights with water and dry them.
  • Use masking tape to cover the surrounding paint to protect it.
  • Apply the cleaner to a cloth and rub in circular motions.
  • Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
  • Repeat if needed.

How to Prevent Yellowing

Prevention is better than cure! Here’s how to keep your headlights looking clear:

• Avoid Parking in Direct Sunlight:Use a sunshade or car cover if you need to park outdoors.
• Regular Cleaning:Wash your headlights frequently to remove dirt and grime before they stick.
• Use Protective Coatings:Apply a UV-protective film or wax to your headlights.
• Switch to LED Bulbs:LED bulbs produce less heat, which reduces the risk of plastic degradation.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals:Use mild, automotive-safe cleaning products.
• Check Seals:Inspect the rubber seals around the headlights to prevent moisture buildup.

Taking a little time to clean and maintain your headlights regularly can save you from bigger, costlier issues down the road. Keep your headlights sparkling and drive safely!

Read More:  Radiator Leak – Can You Keep Driving? Is It Dangerous? Let’s Find Out!

Looking for a  car appraisal?  You can contact us for a free car valuation within 24 hours…