How to Clean Foggy Headlights: A Step-by-Step Guide for Clearer Vision
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Imagine you’re driving up a hill in a rural area with few streetlights. Your headlights seem to be doing an okay job of lighting your way, but then you reach the peak, and the road and what’s beyond look like a black void.
Cloudy headlights diminish nighttime visibility and present a real risk to you, other drivers, and pedestrians. To improve safety, it’s essential to learn how to clean foggy headlights and illuminate the world around you.
Why Clean Foggy Headlights?
Cloudy headlights may seem like a cosmetic issue. They can make a car look old and uncared for. However, the primary concern is safety.
Foggy headlight lenses reduce light output by up to 50%. That’s why you can have your brights on but not be able to make out what’s across the street or down the road. The effect isn’t limited to you, either. Other drivers are depending on you and your headlights to illuminate roadways and obstacles, especially in low-light situations.
When visibility is low, it increases the likelihood of accidents. You might not see an animal, person, or obstacle in the road until it’s too late.
Common Causes of Foggy Headlights
Before you learn how to clean foggy headlights, it’s important to understand the common causes of cloudiness. The reasons for the problem can affect your cleaning choices.
The most common cause of cloudiness or fogginess is the accumulation of dirt and debris. Typically, water vapor builds up in the lens, allowing dirt and grime to collect on the polycarbonate or plastic surface. The moisture usually comes in through a worn seal.
Oxidation is another common cause of a foggy headlight. This chemical aging process degrades plastic headlights. Exposure to UV rays and the breakdown of the headlights’ UV protectant cause yellowing and a cloudy appearance on the headlight lenses.
Finally, improperly sealed sockets and temperature fluctuations can cause the lenses to cloud over. Old or improperly installed seals around auto headlights lead to moisture buildup and allow dirt behind the lens. When poor seals are combined with rapid temperature changes, the headlights can experience greater amounts of condensation.
Now that you understand how “fog” forms, it’s time to learn the best way to clean foggy headlights.
Using Commercial Restoration Kits vs. At-Home Remedies
There are two options for cleaning foggy headlights: commercial restoration kits or at-home remedies. Both options are DIY-friendly.
Commercial kits use specially formulated cleaning compounds and polishing pads to remove headlight buildup and restore clarity. Some kits include coarse sanding options for severe cloudiness, allowing you to remove oxidation and heavy grime.
While typically safe, when learning how to clean foggy headlights at home, it’s often best to focus on less volatile solutions, especially if the lenses aren’t that bad. One common headlight cleaning recipe uses the following simple ingredients:
- Two parts distilled white vinegar
- One part baking soda
Stir the ingredients to mix them thoroughly. Dip a soft cloth (microfiber) into the solution and apply it in circular motions to the outer layer of the headlight. Spend a few minutes on each lens. When finished, rinse the lenses with clean water and dry them with a clean cloth.
Another method to clean foggy headlights in a DIY way is to use toothpaste as a mild cleanser. Toothpaste has a little more grit than the vinegar solution, so it might be better on dirty lens interiors. Wet the headlights with water and apply a fair amount of toothpaste, again using circular motions. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes, then softly scrub again. Finally, rinse the lenses.
Preventative Tips for Keeping Headlights Clear
While it’s useful to know how to clean foggy headlights, it’s better to avoid them becoming cloudy in the first place. The best way to prevent headlight fogginess is to apply a UV protectant or a headlight protection film. The protection films usually include UV protection and have the added benefit of protecting the lenses from road debris.
You can also protect your headlights by parking in the shade or garage. By avoiding direct sunlight, you limit the risk of oxidation.
Finally, get a commercial cleaning kit or mix up a DIY solution to keep on hand. To maintain maximum visibility and illumination, you’ll want to clean your headlights periodically, usually once every few months.
Note that headlight damage from normal wear and tear isn’t typically included in car insurance coverage. Foggy headlights, unless severe and the result of an accident, are out-of-pocket expenses. That’s why preventative care is important.
Safety Benefits of Clear Headlights
Learning to clean foggy headlights has several safety benefits. Clean and clear headlights provide better visibility on the road, which reduces accident risks and improves overall safety.
When To Seek Professional Help for Headlight Restoration
You’ll want to seek professional help for headlight restoration when your headlights have significant damage or wear. Severe yellowing, cloudiness, haziness, scratches, cracks, or other noticeable signs of damage may need a professional with specialized tools.
Whether you take your car to a professional depends on the severity of the damage. It might also depend on your insurance for car repairs. If the damage stems from an accident, such as a cracked headlight or broken seal, your insurance might cover the repair, but only if a professional performs it.
Protect Your Vehicle and Safety With Car Insurance
If you want an insurance plan that offers the most protection for your car and its parts, including headlights, look for a comprehensive policy. Check out EverQuote to compare several quotes from top-rated insurers and find the one that’s right for you.