How to Deal with Yellowed Headlight Covers?
2 Answers
Gently sand the cover with sandpaper, being careful to apply light pressure to avoid leaving scratches after cleaning. Sand the headlight with sandpaper and then polish it with specialized wax. However, not all areas can be polished, and the protective film will be worn off after polishing. First, apply tape around the edges of the headlight. Then, sand it with sandpaper of varying grits. Finally, use professional tools to apply a new protective film.
I've always enjoyed tackling car issues myself, especially minor ones like yellowing headlight covers caused by plastic aging and surface oxidation from UV exposure. Initially, I tried household methods, such as applying regular toothpaste to the cover, gently rubbing for a few minutes, then rinsing with water – the polishing effect was noticeable. Alternatively, purchasing a professional headlight restoration kit containing fine sandpaper and polishing compound, then sanding as instructed, restores brightness without damaging the surface. Regular maintenance is key; try parking in shaded areas to minimize sun exposure. After treatment, remember to apply a layer of UV protective wax to prolong clarity. Don’t delay fixes, as impaired lighting affects driving safety, especially at night when poor visibility is hazardous. This DIY approach is simple, cheap, and takes less than half an hour, saving you dozens in repair costs.
