How To Clean Headlights With Sandpaper?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

To clean headlights with sandpaper, you will need 1000-grit wet sandpaper, 1500-grit dry sandpaper, and 3000-grit wet sandpaper. Begin by cleaning the headlights and masking off the surrounding areas. Wet the sandpaper and gently sand the headlights in a back-and-forth motion, starting with the 1000-grit paper and progressing to the 1500-grit and then the 3000-grit paper. After sanding, apply AAT 501 rubbing compound with a foam pad attached to a dual-action polisher or by hand. Buff the headlights in circular motions. Remove excess compound and apply AAT 502 Finishing Polish with a clean microfiber towel, polishing in circular motions.

The Importance of Headlight Restoration

• Clear coat degradation and its impact on headlight appearance
• The need for wet sanding to remove the damaged clear coat
• How sanding and polishing can restore clarity and brightness

Materials Needed for Headlight Restoration

Gather the following materials:

1. 1000-grit wet sandpaper
2. 1500-grit dry sandpaper
3. 3000-grit wet sandpaper
4. AAT 501 rubbing compound
5. AAT 502 Finishing Polish
6. Detail spray (non-silicone)
7. Microfiber towels
8. Tape (to protect the surrounding areas)

Step-by-Step Guide to Headlight Restoration

Step 1: Preparation

• Lift the hood and tape off the surrounding paint to protect it.
• Ensure you have ample lighting to see the restoration progress.

Step 2: Wet Sanding with 800 Grit

• Wet the sandpaper and the headlight surface.
• Sand the headlight using up-and-down motions, removing the clear coat.
• Rinse off the sanding residue and check for uniformity.

Step 3: Assessing Clear Coat Removal

• Dry the headlight and inspect for any remaining clear coat.
• The entire headlight should appear milky and cloudy after sanding.
• If clear spots persist, continue sanding with the 800 grit until uniform.

Step 4: Refining the Surface with 1500 Grit

• Wet the 1500-grit sandpaper and the headlight surface.
• Sand uses up-and-down motions to create a uniform scratch pattern.
• Rinse off the residue and assess the clarity.

Step 5: Fine-Tuning with 2000 Grit

• Wet the 2000 grit sandpaper and the headlight surface.
• Continue sanding with up-and-down motions to refine the scratches further.
• Rinse off the residue and evaluate the progress.

Step 6: Polishing with a Dual-Action Polisher

• Attach a heavy-cutting yellow pad to the dual-action polisher.
• Apply a small amount of rubbing compound to the pad.
• Gently polish the headlight using the polisher, allowing it to work.
• Avoid applying excessive pressure that may damage the headlight or its components.
• After the initial pass, inspect for any remaining scratches or haze.

Step 7: Achieving Maximum Clarity with Finishing Polish

• Replace the heavy cutting pad with a foam pad on the dual-action polisher.
• Apply a small amount of finishing polish to the pad.
• Polish the headlight once more, ensuring all scratches and haze are removed.
• Regularly check the progress and adjust speed or technique as needed.

Step 8: Protect and Maintain

• Apply a protective coating: After cleaning the headlights, consider applying a high-quality wax or sealant specifically designed for headlights. This will provide a protective barrier against UV rays and environmental elements, helping to prevent future oxidation and yellowing.
• Regular cleaning: Include the headlights in your regular car cleaning routine. Use a gentle car wash soap and a soft microfiber towel to keep them clean and free from dirt or grime buildup.
• Periodic maintenance: Over time, the protective coating may wear off. It’s a good practice to reapply the protective coating every few months or as needed to maintain the clarity and shine of your headlights.

Tips and Considerations for Headlight Restoration

• Always start with a less aggressive sandpaper grit and gradually move to finer grits to avoid damaging the headlights.
• Take breaks to assess your progress and ensure you achieve the desired clarity.
• Use a dual-action polisher at low speeds to minimize the risk of melting the plastic.
• Maintain a consistent scratch pattern during sanding for easier polishing.
• Apply the rubbing and finishing compounds with gentle pressure to avoid excessive heat generation.

FAQs

Summary:

Following this step-by-step guide, you can clean your headlights to their former glory using sandpaper and a few additional materials. Each stage is crucial in achieving clear, bright headlights, from wet sanding to polishing. Remember to protect the surrounding areas, maintain a uniform scratch pattern, and apply appropriate compounds for a stunning result. Don’t settle for dull and hazy headlights; revitalize them with sandpaper and enjoy improved visibility and a rejuvenated vehicle appearance.

Key Points:

• Clear coat degradation leads to yellowing and oxidation on headlights.
• Wet sanding with progressive grits (800, 1500, and 2000) removes the damaged clear coat.
• Use up-and-down motions to create a uniform scratch pattern during sanding.
• Inspect for clear coat removal and adjust sanding as necessary.
• Polish the headlight using a dual-action polisher with rubbing compound.
• Check for any remaining scratches or haze and refine with a finishing polish.
• Apply a layer of wax or sealant for long-lasting protection.
• Regular maintenance and protection help prevent future deterioration.
• Use specific automotive sandpaper and avoid excessive pressure during polishing.
• Headlight cleaning frequency depends on environmental conditions and maintenance.