Cleaning Headlight Lenses

[HonestBlue]

I have a 2001 Stratus R/T with what appears to be pollution crud starting to accumulate on the headlight lenses.What might be good to remove it and return them to new condition?Can I safely use an orbital buffer to apply it?And also,what can be done to prevent this in the future?I am a new guy here and would like to say hey and thank you in advance for any tips.

[Lynx131]

yea i have basically the same problem on my 97 mustang. The turn signal lamps are as clear as can be, but my headlights are yellow. And it really bothers me that i can't get them clear. ( or atleast as clear as when they left the dealship ) I have used a variety of products, including 3m plastic polish, i've tryed everything, except for meguiars scratch X. SOmeone told me it most likely wouldn't do anything so i never picked up a bottle. Im looking forward to the responses

[Rockpick]

Hey Guys!

Meguiar's does have a product for you! It's called url=http://www.meguiars.com/store_meguiars/product_detail.cfm?sku=G-123]'Plastx'[/url] and it should be available at a store near you!

This product is specifically designed to deal with the problems that both of you have mentioned in that it contains Diminishing Abrasives so that it can remove light oxidation, chemical degration, surface contamination, stains, and light surface scratches with ease.

I'm finding that guys with very high-end sportscars with Plexi-glass rear windows (like Porsche Boxsters) LOVE this stuff!

Check it out!

RP

[Tim Lingor]

Hey,

Just to tag Rockpick's advice, please see this review on PlastX:

http://www.showcargarage.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=41&highlight=plastx

This may help a little as well!

Tim

[HonestBlue]

Thanks for the input all.I have read several tests of Plastx on-line and will try to find some locally.If it is as good as the reviews claim,it should fix my problem.Nasty headlight lenses sure do ruin the look of a detailed vehicle.

[stainbuster]

Hi all,

Do you think Plastix will restore these lenses? It's a 98 Carava. They're very cloudy and rough.

Thanks, here's the pic:

[Tim Lingor]

Hey,

It depends whether or not the marring is on the surface or if the plastic has been discolored. If it is on the surface, then you will improve the headlights a great deal. But, if it is in the plastic, (as in discolored) there is nothing that can be done.

The best advice is to give the PlastX a try.

Good Luck and keep us posted!

Tim

[Reflections]

I tried the Megs plastic cleaner/polisher and didn't convinced me. I use #83 Dual Action and works great. If I need a little more cleaning action I use Diamond Cut followed by DACP. If you know how to use a rotary, you'll have perfect headlights in no time.

[Tim Lingor]

Hey,

I would highly advise against using an aggressive compound and/or a rotary to clean plastic headlights as some headlights have a coating on them while others do not. The problem is, you have no real way of knowing if your lights have that coating or not until it is too late. Therefore, if you choose to try a more aggressive product beyond PlastX, use great caution and try it in a spot where no one will see it, just in case. I found out the hard way!

Like I said, when I first used PlastX, I did not work it long enough. When I worked it in until it was almost gone, the product really works well!

Just IMHO.

Tim

[stainbuster]

Thanks for the replies:

Tim, you said you found out the hard way when using a more agressive method. Did it involve a coated lens?

Also, would another tool like a DA or drill fitted with a small buffing pad be effective?

OK, my plan would be:

Hand polish with #10/#17
Move to Plastix, if needed
Move to DACP, if needed
Then ?

Thanks. Mike

[Tim Lingor]

Hey Mike,

Yes, I did run into a set of coated headlights. The coating starts to wear away leaving a dull spot. One thing I noticed is that it tends to leave white dust if it is scratched. So, just be real careful.

Sure you could use a PC and a W-9006 Finishing Pad to do the job. Make sure not to get the plastic too hot. Also, follow up with a wet MF afterwards to break the static charge. Plastic tends to built up a lot of static electricity which will attract dust to your newly cleaned lenses.

Good Luck and keep us posted!

Tim

[Reflections]

I did a set from a dodge caravan, and thoses were coated. I removed the dullness with Diamond Cut, but I've done others with sand paper. After years of been the target of bugs and stones, the clear coat chips away just like the paint in the front bumper and hood. Now don't take me wrong. I believe DACP is enough for most lenses. Try the 8006 with your PC and you'll see the difference.

[stainbuster]

Well, thanks for all the advice here. They turned out great! Had to 4-step wetsand, then polish, etc...

here's the pic: