Can the plastic cover on the outside of the headlight be replaced?
2 Answers
The plastic cover on the outside of the headlight can be replaced. Impact of the headlight cover: If the headlight cover of a car is cracked, it needs to be replaced promptly. If not replaced, the headlight will lose its seal, leading to moisture inside the headlight, which affects car lighting. In rainy conditions, water may even enter, potentially causing a short circuit and damaging the headlight. Replacing the entire headlight assembly: The headlight cover can be replaced by yourself. If the headlight cover is damaged, a 4S shop will usually replace the entire headlight assembly because original headlight covers are not available. It's important to note that replacing the entire headlight assembly is a complex and time-consuming process.
I recently helped a friend replace the headlight cover, and it's entirely possible to replace just the plastic cover. Many older cars develop yellowing and cracking on the headlight covers over time, which significantly affects lighting performance. If you're doing it yourself, you'll need to remove the entire headlight assembly, use a heat gun to soften the sealant, then pry it open with specialized tools—cleaning off the residual adhesive is particularly tedious. When choosing a new cover, opt for UV-resistant material, and make sure to apply the sealant evenly during reinstallation to prevent water ingress during rainy weather. I'd recommend that most people avoid DIY attempts and instead spend around 300-500 yuan at a professional headlight modification shop for peace of mind. Also, using fewer corrosive cleaners during regular car washes can help delay headlight cover aging.
