How to remove aged and hardened headlight film?

[SanWalter]

Use your fingernail or a hard card like a bank card to lift one corner of the headlight film, or employ a wallpaper knife. Then you can peel off the film, and the use of a heat gun can assist in removing the film with its heat. At this point, you can use alcohol, tar, or hot glue methods to remove any remaining residue, followed by a rinse with tap water.

[LaBella]

The headlight film on our old car also hardened last year, and we found that a heat gun works best. First, clean the surface, then set the heat gun to medium temperature and blow it at the film for two to three minutes. When the film softens and bubbles, use a plastic scraper to slowly push it off, remembering to keep the heat gun moving and not fixed on one spot. After removal, there will be adhesive residue; spray a dedicated adhesive remover, let it sit for five minutes, then wipe it off with a non-woven cloth in a circular motion. If you don’t have the right tools, a hairdryer can work if you blow it for a longer time, but never use a blade to scrape hard, as it will scratch the headlight cover. After cleaning, apply car wax for protection; otherwise, the exposed headlight cover can easily turn yellow. Doing it yourself doesn’t cost much, but the key is to be patient and take your time.

[DelOmar]

Last time I helped a friend with headlight film, I realized softening is key. A heat gun is the safest option, but a hair dryer works too—just evenly heat the film until it's peelable. Prepare two things: alcohol wipes for residue removal and a plastic bank card as a scraper. When peeling, don't rush—lift a corner from the edge and pull steadily in one direction while heating. If the film crumbles, spray some WD-40 and let it soak for ten minutes to ease removal. Afterward, check the lens for scratches—light ones can be buffed out with toothpaste. Lastly, never use steel wool or solvents, as they can corrode the plastic lens. Summer is easier than winter for this job since higher temperatures speed up softening.

[SanLayla]

The headlight film has aged and hardened. I found the hot compress method quite effective. Boil some water, soak a towel, wring it semi-dry, and apply it to the film for five minutes. While it's still warm, use your fingernail to lift a corner. Peel it slowly while applying heat, and any residual adhesive can be removed with essential balm. There are three key points: the temperature must be sufficient, the peeling angle should be flat, and use soft materials for scraping. Avoid using a hairdryer for prolonged high-temperature heating, as the plastic lens can't withstand it. After treatment, there may be some fine scratches, which can be concealed with two coats of liquid wax. If it's too troublesome, you can spend 200 bucks at a detailing shop—they have professional steam guns. Try to avoid parking in direct sunlight to prevent the new film from aging quickly.