How To Restore Headlights PERMANENTLY ( Better Than a BRAND NEW Headlight )
Headlight restoration is all about choosing the right products and methods. In this video I show you How to Restore Headlights Permanently. In the first half of the video, i show you how to clean headlights. Cleaning the Oxidised, Yellowing, Fading or Discoloured layer of plastic is the first step. You can even use toothpaste, baking soda and even WD40 but such products are only good for very minor improvements. To get it done professionally with a brand new looks, you have to do a complete restoration like I show you in this video. Then in the second half of the video, i show you how to stop headlights from yellowing and getting hazy which requires you to follow up with a protective coating. What coating you should go with depends on your budget, how long you’re gonna keep the car for and therefore how long you want the coating to last for.
Here are the products I used.
Compound amzn.to/49f3ab8
Polish amzn.to/3Q4YSKr
Professional grade coumpound amzn.to/3FqHPh1
Professional grade polish amzn.to/3McDAJJ
Plastic polish amzn.to/3s3dDFM
Headlight restoration kit amzn.to/2Wq98BC
Sanding backing pad amzn.to/2W1mJOC
Masking tape amzn.to/2MjWnmw
600grit and 1500 grit sandpaper amzn.to/2WCddSk
3000 grit sandpaper amzn.to/3rRjduY
Isopropyl alcohol ( if the film of your choice recommends) amzn.to/3QnkBPb
Dishwashing liquid amzn.to/3Q3kZRD
Headlight protection film amzn.to/45Jnb6q
Headlight coating amzn.to/3Q4Clh6
Film installation kit amzn.to/493o3Ww
UV Hard coat (for professionals) www.momentive.com/en-us/categ...
UV curing lamp (for professionals) glasweld.com/product/headligh...
Cheap clear coat amzn.to/2SXBy2t
2k Cleat coat amzn.to/2VTOkBb
Headlight lens covers amzn.to/45JGZXv
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HI ALL, For those who like to go with my 4th option - You can use clear coat if you want, It is a cheap and a reasonable alternative option for the price. I was explaining the reason why car manufacturers don’t use clear coat, with a demonstration. That demonstration is only to explain how refraction works on clear coat due to its higher RI, like i showed with a water bucket and a pencil and two more examples. Because clear coats tend to have an orange peel effect, you can get a little distorted light output. Combined with the higher refractive index of clear coat, this can be intensified even more. That’s why @7.43 i mentioned to wet sand the lens to get rid of any orange peel so you can minimise any noticeable distortion of the light output. This video is about restoring headlights permanently. As this car is getting a heavy sun exposure which you can tell by the peeling factory clear coat on the bumper near the headlight, ( instagram.com/p/BqZ1EA2AfrY/ ) ( instagram.com/p/BrwneLOBSBb/ ) clear coat is clearly not a permanent solution for these headlights. Removing peeling clear coat is harder than removing a headlight coating when it comes to restore the lens again and clear coat is the only non optical grade product among the 5 options and it has the least clarity. And since clear coat doesn't get bonded onto a highly polished surface like a headlight lens as well as it does on a metal surface, in most cases, you have to roughen up the lens prior to apply cleat coat to stop the clear coat from peeling prematurely and this can further intensify the distortion of the light simply because a roughened up surface create a diffused refraction and this cannot be restored even if you wet sand the lens. That is why the clear coat is the worst option for me among those 5 options. So in this case, i prefer the protection film over the clear coat and all the other coatings because like i mentioned, it doesn't get bonded onto the lens like clear coat or any other coating so in a matter of few minutes i can easily remove and replace the film should the film goes bad in the future which it will and when that happens i won't have to restore the lens all over again, plus the film has the highest optical clarity right out of the box ( you know what i mean if you've ever seen a tinted car window ) and gives me superb chip protection as well. But if you want to use clear coat, you can use a good clear coat and it is completely up to you . That's why i showed you guys 5 common options. i picked mine so you have to pick yours depending on your budget, climate you live in, how long you gonna keep the car for, and what you gonna use the car for (Eg: headlights covers are ideal if you do a lot of road trips as you get good protection from rock chips) . And for those who're wondering why a genuine headlight is so expensive, check this out kzhead.info/sun/ftN7ltWuioyEaps/bejne.html
I use compound and do it every 6 months or when l notice the haze .This works for me it last longer when you wax it after you polish it.
You are amazing :-)
The reason you had refraction on the part of the headlight sprayed with clear coat is that you did not wet sand and polish the clear coat after it cured. The way to clear coat your headlights effectively is to spray several coats of clear coat. Wait at least a few hours between each layer of clear coat. Due to the need to wait for a good cure of each layer of clear coat, this turns into a project that can last 2 days. BTW, remember to protect your car's paint during this process if you spray the headlights while they're installed on the vehicle. Otherwise you will get overspray on your car's paint. After several coats of clear coat are applied and cured, you will notice the lens is heavily orange peeled, however you should not have any streaks if you sprayed the lens lightly each time. This is the desired result at this stage. Attempting to rush the job by applying thick coats, will cause streaking--you do not want this to happen. After the final layer of clear coat is applied and has cured, the orange peel should be lightly wet sanded and polished to a clear finish with a very fine sandpaper. Remember to use clear coat with UV protectant. Hardware stores sell this in an aerosol can. I find this method to preserve the headlights for roughly 18-24 months, longer if you apply a UV protectant wax to the headlights each time your car is washed.
Junky DIY guy all this bullshit for restoring a headlight, r u mad bro ??? Just get a new headlights it’s cheaper then all the shit you r doing I’m not going to spend money on that sand paper, Grinder, coating etc...
The second headlamp was buffed ONLY with compound. Isn't finishing off buffing with polish necessarily? Thanks for this great video.
My son is a professional car detailer and he says your methods of restoration and video production techniques are second to none. You have our attention. Congratulations, you deserve a huge following.
Actually many light need sanded and not just mothers for a professional finish. 1300 cars a year you know this
@just me which polisher
Go home!
Hey whats important is, it is long lasting or just a few years then we are going to go thru that again although how careful we are or not get to accident. Everyone know you can just sand and wax it but it will not last long. After that it is going to be yellowish again
@just me wrong... that only works if headlights are just faded and coating is still in tact with no damage. Once that coating is damaged, like most cars, as in this video, it has to be removed by sanding period. Anyone that knows what the hell they're talking about, knows this.
One of the most professional and through tutorial on youtube.
Exactly
Thank you for this a lot of work but we should keep it clean after this
I agree
I wonder how much in kickbacks the auto companies are getting? I mean nothing came their way in Graff when you just replaced the headlight but with the bigger criminal doings these days I figure either they're getting a cut or own, by fronting the money to companies to start this new division or new company if need be. The CEO's of the auto companies are dimwits but they are good crooks. Hate to think they've made all customers lives hell without feeling they should get some scratch for doing so.
I feel like I have a degree for this now 😂
I wish every KZheadr creating instructional videos would use this framework. Informative, accurate, and not worried about constantly having their own face in the video or their clout. 100% A+ my guy.
I don't even have a car or a license, why am I watching this?
Same lol
Thats what you called manifesting, i once like u
Knowledge
Cause u know u gonna get one eventually.
Welcome to the wonderful world of car maintenance ASMR.
That right there is a masterclass on how to demonstrate a process in a time efficient manner with excellent production value and describe the pro's and con's of common alternatives. Extremely well done!
I totally agree! That's some superior work done there. :)
@@stujones3566 He is the master detailer, very informative
Indeed!
Not only the information is accurate but his production and editing are great. Excellent job dude!!!!!!!
Its easier to buy a new one.
Yes
Sure it’s easier to buy a new one if you are made of money. But at $300 plus’s a set up where I live for my ride and I fixed my Old Ones for about $30 worth of sand paper and compound. I picked up a polishing pad at harbor freight for like $6 for the drill.
@@DavidOptions At $1,496 for a pair it is only easier if you don't have to work for the money.
Agreed
I don't usually comment on DIY videos I find helpful but this was just so incredibly thorough and well explained, yet simple - thank you so much and keep up the good work creating content like this!
Hands down best headlight restoration video on KZhead! Easy to understand and you can see what the headlight should look like after each step.
i have never ever seen a tutorial better than this in my 38 years wow
He made it so easily understood with each process. I am adding headlight restoration to my detailing business. I just gotta figure out my pricing range. Lol.
which state it depends for example texas hmm 16,99$ would be A eye catch
@@King_drew Hi bro wassap
@@mustaifs7374 I'm in AZ. I will be doing a Benz headlights for $30/ headlamp.
Agree !!
I definitely didn't need to know everything in this video but I couldn't stop watching.
Me 2
Felt the same way! Matter of fact. I’ll watch it again.
It was so simple and to the point, I felt like I was back in elementary school. Loved the presentation.
Me too. 6/19/2023 😂😂
Yesterday, I finally got round to restoring the headlights on my 16 year old car in preparation for the M.O.T. I had watched a few KZhead videos on the subject but this one stood out as way better than all the rest. I followed the instructions to the letter and was amazed by the transformation just like it was shown in the video. 15 million views can't be wrong - thanks very much for all your help!
15 million CAN be wrong.
@@shawnholton5182 How so Mr. Know it all?
A lot of the headlight discolouration is caused by the heat generated by the bulbs and is on the inside of the headlight screen.
Very nicely presented. Not only did you go over the professional options and the DIY options, but you also went in depth with every single bit of it! And I really appreciate videos like that!
This is the BEST video ever made on headlight restoration
Indeed!
This is one of the best, succinct, well produced DIY video on any topic I have ever seen anywhere. Kudos, would that all DIY videos could follow his lead.
So amazing I was almost crying. This guy cares for his audience. Period. No sponsors. No BS. In top 5 videos I’ve ever seen on you tube.
you love a drama, dont you
Kids are in tears too
@@kitshicker9591 This is a bot. and at least 40 of the likes and 50% of the other comments on this video.
what a crybaby
What a phenomenal video!!! I’ve watched tons of tutorial videos on DIY car maintenance and this is head shoulders and chest above everything I’ve seen! Bravo man! The work and care you put into this really shows! Thank you!
The production quality of this video is better than any commercial video I've ever seen.
Wow the work of putting this video together must be insane! Job well done
Ya I was thinking that too. Incredible amounts of work.
Respect due 👍
@@pb5626 okoo
Probably one of the best instructional KZhead videos ever! To the point, great editing, time saving. PERFECT
This is by far the best headlight restore video on KZhead. Options, explanations and demonstrations without wasting time. Thanks for the video!
This man is professional and you can trust! Undoubtedly the best video available anywhere. Thank for posting!
This is the FIRST video I have witnessed that KNOWS about headlight restoration. I have been doing this method for years. It's the ONLY correct method I know of that lasts and lasts. NOTHING is permanent or headlights coming from the factory wouldn't yellow in the first place. This is by far, the absolute BEST video on KZhead for headlight restoration that I have watched. Something that ends like this video ends .... takes TIME. You can't restore a headlight in 10 mins. Take your time. DO IT RIGHT. And when you're through, you won't regret your results. AND ... after you have done a few ... you can make pocket money from this. Word of mouth will get around that you're the person to come to. Make yourself some extra $$$ and DO IT RIGHT. This video is GREAT !!!
yeah thats what i was thinking as well. learn the trade then turn it into a side gig.. how much would you charge for this service though????
How long that plastic coating lasts in a good condition?
The plastic coating is a sprayed on CLEAR COAT (usually lacquer) ... and because of driving behind vehicles in rain / snow and road conditions of mud and oil constantly being deposited ON roads then thrown up at your car when driving in rain ... eventually that coating will wear down again. If you keep your car garaged and out of the elements the clear lenses have a tendency to last virtually "forever". But no matter, if you vehicle is a "daily driver" it will be subject to the elements and other cars you follow and what they throw up into your path.@@babycakes8434
Wow, fantastic video! I can't believe I just watched 10 min of headlight video and was intrigued the whole time. Great job!
This video is the definition of above and beyond. Came for a cake but I got the whole bakery
Really love how detailed you are. And you always explain THE WHY!! Learning a lot from you. I appreciate your knowledge of the science of what you are teaching!
Quality video right here! You broke everything down so well without wasting time or over explaining. Excellent job!
I know, I'm absolutely impressed
I don't really have any words. This is one of the best tutorials I've ever seen on ANYTHING.
Clearly one of the best I've seen with thorough examples and descriptions, all presented in an entertaining and concise format. STELLAR!! Thank you so much!
I agree with many people here, this a Masterclass of how restored your headlights. 10 STARS. Thank you for your time and your knowlodge
Bravo, this couldn’t have been done any more perfectly. This is an example of how all informative clips like these should be shot 👍
I've been sanding and polishing headlights with liquid rouge and then wax once a month for over 15 yes, never had to sand or polish again, but in all you have to have some type of maintenance, this is the first time I have ever seen a good video with information at why it is what it is, thankyou for the video.
Absolutely incredible job on this video, extremely informative and insightful! Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into making this!!
Loving this as well as the way you make/produce these videos. Excellent pace, breaks, transitions, subject display etc! Just awesome, thank you!
I watched 5 times, that is how impressed I was. Clarity, detail smoothly presented. Absolutely brilliant!!!!
If you had to watch 5 times then it must be one of the worst tutorials on the internet
The best instructional video I have ever seen on you tube. The way you showed scientifically why some options were better than others was so well done
I agree
Hi, being a female and not really knowing what to do to get my hazy headlight lens clear and being extremely nervous about trying to restore my lens by myself (They were REALLY bad!) I watched your video (a couple times) & followed every step. I hand sanded just as you did, then used an electric drill to compound & polish. My cars lens look ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! I am SO happy I came across your DIY video! Thank you, Thank you, Thank YOU!!!
be sure to apply clearcoat and use wax every 6 months to preserve the clearcoat
Probably the best well put video I've ever seen. I like the beginning when you moved your hand back and forth to show what it would look like to how it looks like..brilliant. well done very well done! Thanks for taking the time to put this all together and edit it. I know it wasn't easy but you did an excellent job.
This is the best headlight restoration video I've seen so far. Well-presented, concise and plenty of explanations. It's also big on the actual reasons why lenses fade and yellow. This chap clearly knows what he's talking about. Well done.
WELL ITS NOT TRUE. THIS DOSENT WORK
@@samcolt1079 please expand on this. why is it not true? what doesn't work and in what way? the presenter invested over 10' (min.) of filming, not to mention prep. time and acquiring the various products, in order to show people what DOES work. then you come a long and in less than 5" (sec.) simply say "it doesn't work." really? did you follow the instructions? apparently mr. prowse did upwards of 11 days before you entered your comments, and his results were outstanding.
@@samcolt1079 You don't have a clue
@@samcolt1079 *DOESN'T
Best headlight restoration video I've ever seen. Well done.
Dean Parker it wad short and to the point but with all the products he bought he coulda just got new headlights. my jeep headlights were 50 a peice which is not that much more
@@cantloop9589 heh, let me guess, some off name led 7" projector lights? Welcome to crappy beam patterns and blinding drivers. If you got OEM or an OEM replacement then sorry for the negative comment, lol. I have a project Miata and it uses the same headlights so I have seen a lot of those cheap headlights.
Dean Parker Agreed. Best one I’ve seen too.
Only one I have seen. Never knew this was an issue. The UK isn't that bright 😅
@@cantloop9589 just use Cif cream or Jif cream $5 done , and alittle elbow grease..
Really great instructions, step-by-step. I so appreciate the thoroughness of this and seeing how all the options played out. You are amazing! Thank you.
Followed this step by step and was blown away by the results. This legitimately worked! I even went with the headlight protective coating to put the cherry on top. Definitely one of the best guides out there.
I watch about 30-40 KZhead videos a day, and I almost never leave a comment, thumbs up, bell and a sub, but this got them all. Thanks!
Your work into these videos does not go unnoticed, I'm subscribing.
New sub...
Me too!
ditto!
exceptional video! straight to the point, clear and easy to understand, loved the multiple options and explanation of why each method might be desirable. thank you!
I've only ever actually commented on less than x10 KZhead videos in my life, but, I simply had to comment on this video.....GREAT flipping video, informative, provides multiple easy to follow resolutions and narrated in an excellent format!... ....well done young man 👨 😊
This is by the best and most informative headlight restoration video ever! A lot of people post half ass videos to restore your headlights to get views and tell you its "permanent" but this video is the only REAL way to keep it permanent. Out of all the headlight restoration videos on KZhead I have yet to see anyone mention protective film. Everyone can a learn a thing a thing or 2 from this video
Started watching: "urgh, this guy is going to be like all the rest with useless 'hacks' " Watched: "...... Well shit, that was actually really informative...."
I thought the same thing.
I was like you, but the more I watched the more I liked his methods and his logical thinking. He nailed this video.
Not only did he show you how to do a really cool hack he didn't waste time with loads of graphics/ unnesessary footage/ loud music.
Same though. I was impressed by this so much.
I have tried the head light fix on my Corvette and it works
wow, i have seen many ways of doing it , but this is hands down the BEST!! no endless talk here just pure gold info. thanks for making the world a better place.
This is the best tutorial video i have ever seen. The ammount of detail and footage of every step. This must have taken a serious ammount of time to put together. Well done congrats to you and thankyou for the helpful information may you live long and prosper
This was one of the most professional DIY video I’ve ever seen. I’ve had people in store parking lots ask for $20. to do my lights but I will definitely be doing own from now on. Thank you! ☺️
what’s a good price to pay for someone to do them for you ?
@@jessicaciciliano8717 $20 seems reasonable if they do it properly
@@yasirkadhim2940 if you have to do it repeatedly (or if you have multiple cars to work on) then getting your own materials would be worth it, but for a one-off, $20 does seem reasonable
This is the most detailed restoration video I have ever watched. Good on you mate👍🏻 Please make more videos on car detailing.
This guy went all-in for this video. Not only was it great knowledge, but he also showed every little step and "what ifs" as well, such as spraying on half of that small lens and showing the results with the light on. Deserves every view it got so far.
Fantastic presentation. Hands down one of the best tutorial videos I've seen. Professionalism at its best.
I’ve seen real good videos on headlight restoration and some have been great. But this video has got to be the best of them all. It explains all steps very detailed and gives alternate solutions no one else had given. Great video.
This was one of the most professional DIYs I've seen that *correctly* mixes theatrics with informative presentation.
By far the best video I’ve seen with perfect explanation and examples 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
What a phenomenal video! Your production techniques, presentation methods, content, and time management are about the best I've ever seen! I am an immediate subscriber!
Beautifully presented, logical clear steps with written/labelled products clearly shown, as well as a experience/choice sequence! No rubbish music, or unecessary graphics. A rare thing on YT, a teacher to his fingertips, presenting as it should be done. Thank you very much.
I agree, no need for music, just verbal instruction and the video! Great job.
Yes, straight to the information without droning on for half an hour like some videos
I think this is the best headlight restoration video I've ever seen. Thanks man
Very well explained, especially for car owners like me that are learning. Thank you for taking the time to do this video for us!
The video is perfect and exactly to the point and extremely educational. And the edit is perfect. Love it.
FINALLY!! Someone who offers _REAL_ results and options for us DIYers - thanks a million!! Amazing video 👏👏... U broke this down like a scientist, in layman's terms 💯
Seriously, I think you're the first youtuber I *actively* do NOT mind watching ads on. Please monetize it :)
I have been looking for a technique on how to restore my headlights. I have seen several KZhead videos and your video caught my attention. It was very detailed, and the results are second to none. Great job and keep those videos coming.
By far the best video on headlight restoration. A must watch for anyone who is about to embark on restoring their headlight. Immediately subscribed.
This video will age very well on KZhead. It will become a timeless masterpiece. Thank you!
And will keep its ‘ crystal clarity’ ..LOL !!
Best DIY Headlight Restore vid for 2019!!
Amen to that!!
I’d say ever
Word!
@Serial Killer you can do that, but you will have yellowing again in 3 to 6 months time and be out polishing the lights again. You have to seal the plastic once you have removed that factory coat for any sort of longevity.
Agreed. The attention to detail is great and he doesn't waste time.
Thank you so much! The best video I’ve seen on KZhead for headlight restoration.
You are obviously a true Professional at what you do. Best do it yourself video I've ever seen. Thank you
Wow. I have been watching KZhead videos ever since KZhead has been around. This video is by far the most no nonsense, straight forward, sensible, easy to understand, easy to follow and super job on the recording itself. Superb, even an equipment list of all products used. Outstanding.
Best restoration video I've seen. 1. Bang on comprehensive information. 2 Love the enumeration of options 3 Great pacing, no lulls, fillers or hesitation in delivery. 4 Perfect lockdown camera. No unnecessary unmotivated movement. 5 High impact before and after demonstration. Nailed it. Great. Thanks.
Thanks Russell, appreciate it
i looked at a lot of videos concerning this issue, your video by far is the best i seen. CONGRATS on a great presentation, Thank You.
I'm not one for commenting on videos usually but just have to say that was one of the clearest and most concise instructional video I have ever seen. Thanks and a definite subscription from me.
This DIY tutorial was 'Spot On' - Thanks for the time and effort, explaining all of the options. You deserve all 11M+ views. Well deserved.
There are many headlight restoration videos on YT, but your editing skills and explanations blow them all out of the water. Good job!
Never thought that adding a protective film would last so long. Great idea. Thank you!
Wow. You are a great teacher. You show the options' pros and cons and why you make your decisions. Thank you and God bless you.
REALLY liked all the science info you included. Had not thought about the issue of Refraction. This is the best approach I've seen to headlight restoration. Thanks for your time on this!
This man is the best in my 50 years of driving I never sean a better explanation bravo my friend
This has to be one of the most informative and well constructed how-to vids I've ever seen!
i LOVE THE VIDEO!!! Thanks for taking the time to provide such a thorough explanation and presentation on restoring and protecting the headlights. I wish I had known about these options before I ordered replacement headlight casings. Thanks for providing this step-by-step information.
The best headlight restoration video on KZhead, incredibly informative, clear and without the usual stupid distracting music in the background. Moves at a good pace and Get’s On with what you need to know...excellent!!!
I watched a lot of videos on do it yourself headlight restoration, this one is by far the best.
Install license plate light on the river 2001 Plymouth neon
Excellent content. Very clear step by step guide and everyone can choose their preferred method. Well done and brilliant channel!
I like the manner in which you demonstrated and explained everything. Thank you kindly. Well done.
One of the best and most professional tutorials I've seen, tried it and it worked brilliantly...👍👍👍
The details to this video is insane. Very helpful!
Great transitions, well spoken, great editing/clipping, all links provided at the end, no bullshit and quality, applicable content. Very well produced mate, well done. You'll go far.
I cannot tell how I landed hear but I have learnt something new today. Much appreciation from Nairobi🇰🇪
You ppl are so sweetly credulous. I shed tears of compassion for you.
Wonderfully thorough presentation. This guy is an amazing presenter. He's a teacher at heart--and a good one, at that.
Wow, I'm actually impressed by your video transitioning. They were seamless. Good video altogether.
I have absolutely no clue how I landed here, but damn I learned something new. Good work!
you took the words right out of my unspoken thought :)
Following, because I enjoy hearing the scientific facts explaining the WHY in a DIY vid. This video is Exactly what was needed to send me on this project prep to get my lights clear again. I haven’t been driving with confidence at night so stopped all outings after dark. That’s how dim they are. Thank you!
Your tutorial was excellent and I enjoyed it very much but as an old man of 76 I can't help remembering the days when we needed a new headlight we went down to our local Western Auto and bought a new complete unit of glass for about 5 bucks~!! Beautiful glass that never turned color or looked scratched. Installed it in 5 minutes with a screwdriver and plugged it in and you were ready to go for another few years~!! The new tech has caused us so much stress everyone is a little crazy these days and I would trade it for yesterday in a New York minute~! Your work on this video is Outstanding~!!
This was an excellent video. Clear, concise and also includes details as to “why” he is doing what he does. Well done and extremely helpful.
This is THE best restoration video and I've see all of them, Scotty, Chrisfix etc
This is the best DIY video I have ever watched. For any category. And I have lots of hobbies. Well done, keep up the great work.
The light in my head just turned on! You, sir, have inspired me. Well done.
Mate, you absolutely nailed this tutorial! Thank you for all the work you put into this.