How to Deal with Yellowing Plastic Headlight Covers?
2 Answers
The solutions for yellowing plastic headlight covers are: 1. Car owners can regularly maintain their vehicles by cleaning dirt and dust on the headlight surface with a clean soft cloth. Soapy water can also be used to wash the headlights, effectively removing surface contaminants like dirt and grease to prevent yellowing; 2. Sand the headlights with sandpaper and then polish them with specialized wax; 3. Apply sealing strips around the edges of the headlights, sand them with various grits of sandpaper, and finally apply a protective film using professional tools. The reason for yellowing plastic headlight covers is prolonged exposure to sunlight. Modern car headlight covers are made of polycarbonate plastic through compression molding. While this plastic is durable and transparent, it is still prone to oxidation and aging.
I've always dealt with yellowing headlight covers myself, having driven for over a decade and knowing how annoying it can be. The main causes are UV exposure and dirt buildup, which reduce light transmission. For a DIY approach at home, start by washing off surface dust, then gently sand with water using progressively finer grit sandpaper—I begin with 400-grit and work up to 2000-grit, gradually removing the yellowed layer. Next, apply polishing compound by hand to restore clarity. Don’t forget to finish with UV-protective spray to prevent re-yellowing. The process is time-consuming but cost-effective, with tools costing just a few dozen bucks. Brighter lights mean safer driving and better visibility at night. With a few tries, you’ll get the hang of it—far more economical than replacing covers and extends their lifespan.
