What are the tips for cleaning yellowed headlights?

[McChase]

Here are the methods to deal with yellowed headlights: 1. Spray UV paint: Just dry it with a UV lamp. However, this repair method is not recommended because, in addition to testing the craftsmanship of the technician, it is also prone to "recurrence," and the headlights may still exhibit the aforementioned issues in a short time. 2. Polishing: This is also quite common and can be done at most car beauty shops. The principle is to sand the headlights with sandpaper and then polish them with specialized wax. 3. Fumigation repair: Apply sealing strips to the edges of the headlights, then sand them with sandpaper of varying coarseness, and finally apply a protective film with professional tools.

[JessicaLynn]

When my headlights turned yellow before, I tried cleaning them with soapy water and a toothbrush. First, I wet the surface of the lens, applied soap, and gently scrubbed away the yellowed oxidation layer with a soft-bristled toothbrush. The results were surprisingly good. The key is not to use too much force, or you might scratch the surface. If the yellowing was severe, I also tried a specialized headlight restoration compound sold online—it comes out as a white paste. After applying it evenly and sanding with sandpaper, I wiped it clean with a damp cloth, and the headlights became clear again. It's best to avoid parking your car with the headlights directly exposed to sunlight, as UV rays accelerate aging. Also, be extra careful when washing the car—remove mud splashes and bird droppings as soon as possible.

[McPeyton]

My neighbor taught me a pretty effective method of using toothpaste to clean headlights. Apply white toothpaste evenly on the yellowed areas of the lens, then use a clean damp cloth to gently rub in circular motions. The yellowed oxidation layer will gradually fade away with the friction. Be extra careful when rinsing with water to avoid residue. Wear gloves during the process to prevent hand injuries, and it's best to do it in a shaded area as high temperatures under direct sunlight can damage the headlights. Regular maintenance can also prevent yellowing, such as parking with the front of the car facing away from the sun and frequently cleaning dust and sand particles from the gaps around the lens.

[DiJuliette]

The mechanic at my regular auto repair shop said dealing with yellowed headlight covers can be done in three steps: cleaning, restoring, and maintenance. First, use soapy water to remove surface dirt, then mix baking soda and white vinegar into a paste and apply it to the headlight cover. Wait five minutes before wiping off the oxidized layer with a soft cloth. Finally, remember to apply car wax as a protective layer to keep the cover smooth and less likely to attract dust. The key is to check regularly and address any signs of yellowing early, as driving becomes dangerous once the headlights turn completely yellow and light transmission decreases.

[DiIsabella]

Before my last road trip, I noticed the headlights had yellowed, affecting visibility. I solved the problem using baking soda paste and an old toothbrush. The steps are simple: mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, apply it evenly to the headlight cover, let it sit for ten minutes, then gently scrub with the toothbrush, focusing on the yellowed edges. Remember to brush in one direction to avoid damaging the surface by rubbing back and forth. After rinsing, the clear effect can last for over half a year. For regular maintenance, you can use automotive-specific wipes to clean the headlight covers during car washes to prevent stubborn stains from building up.