Do Your Headlights Look Foggy or Hazy?
If your headlights have a foggy or hazy appearance, and you’ve noticed a decrease in visibility—especially at night or during rainy conditions (thanks, Iowa weather)—don’t worry! You don’t need to replace your headlights or open up the lens (as many people mistakenly think the haziness is coming from the inside of the lens). In most cases, the problem is on the outside.We can restore the clarity and brightness of your headlights, improving both their appearance and functionality, without the need for a costly replacement. Let us bring back the shine and clarity for safer driving!
The Ultimate Headlight Restoration Process
At Elegant Visuals, we don’t use those generic, one-size-fits-all headlight repair kits you find at auto parts stores.
Instead, we use a full 8-step process that includes sanding, compounding, polishing, and protection to give you the best possible results.
1. Start Sanding with 800 GritThe first round of sanding focuses on removing the oxidized, yellowed layer. You’ll see plenty of slurry come off as we break down the surface.
2. Sand with 1,000 GritThis step refines the sanding, removing some of the oxidization while smoothing out the marks left from the previous sanding.
3. Sand with 1,500 GritAs we continue sanding, the clarity of the headlights will start to improve noticeably.
4. Sand with 2,500 GritWe use a finer grit to remove any remaining imperfections from the surface, moving closer to a clearer headlight.
5. Sand with 3,000 GritThis is the final sanding step, and by now, your headlights should look much clearer with a smooth, uniform surface.
6. Compound the HeadlightsWe then use a cutting disc, compound, and a machine polisher to remove all sanding marks, getting rid of the dullness.
7. Polish the HeadlightsNext, we perform a light polish to refine the finish, bringing out maximum clarity with a polishing pad.
8. Protect the HeadlightsTo keep your headlights looking fresh for longer, we apply a 1-year ceramic coating for durable protection against future oxidation and fading.
By going through this detailed process, we’re removing the failed clear coat that caused the yellow or foggy look. After the sanding, we compound and polish the headlights to restore them to a like-new condition, then finish with a protective layer.
Notice: We no longer offer headlight restorations as a stand-alone service. It must be combined with at least one other service.
Headlight Restoration FAQ
Do you come to me?
We offer both mobile and shop-based services for headlight restoration. However, headlight restoration cannot be done as a standalone service. You will need to pair it with another service, such as a Premium Wash or Wash and Wax. There may be limitations based on distance or location. We serve Polk County, Iowa and surrounding areas, including Dallas County, Story County, Jasper County, and Warren County.
How long does this service take?
Typically, headlight restoration takes between 45 to 90 minutes depending on the size and condition of the headlights. If the condition is severe, it may take longer.
Can you restore any headlights?
While we can restore most headlights, there are limits. If the headlights have reached a point of severe damage, we may not be able to fully restore them to a like-new condition. We can improve their appearance significantly, but sometimes, there might be permanent damage that can’t be fully reversed.
Why do my headlights get ugly?
Your headlights have a clear coat just like your car's paint. Over time, constant exposure to sunlight and UV rays causes the clear coat to deteriorate. This results in the yellow, hazy, or cloudy appearance. Iowa's heat and sun exposure exacerbate the problem, especially if your car is parked in direct sunlight for long periods. The clear coat on headlights doesn’t last as long as the one on your paint, which is why headlights often need restoration sooner.
How do I keep my headlights looking good?
Keeping your headlights clear requires regular maintenance. Here’s what you can do:
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Avoid parking in direct sunlight as much as possible.
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Apply a sealant or wax every 3 to 5 weeks to protect the lenses. This process takes less than 15 minutes and helps keep them clear for longer.
Keep in mind, typical waxes and sealants wear off over time, so regular reapplication is key to maintaining clarity and protection.