How to Clean Yellow Headlights

Headlights that have turned yellow can make a car look really old. The foggy coating that covers the headlight tends to reduce the amount of light emitted on the road. This can affect the driver’s visibility and make it hard to maneuver dark roads.

Fortunately, there are ways you can easily clean your yellow headlights at home. All you need is one of the many household products available. Here are 3 solutions you can use to clean your foggy headlights.

How to clean yellow headlights

1. Toothpaste

Toothpaste contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and other chemicals that help to polish and whiten teeth. The same chemicals work well to clear yellow headlights.

Start by cleaning your headlights using soap and water. Allow them to dry. Apply a small amount of toothpaste and spread it over the headlight.

Using an old toothbrush or a soft dry cloth, rub the headlight in circular motion. Once done, rinse the headlight with clean water and allow it to dry.

2. Aluminum Polishing Compound

Aluminum polishing compound is designed to remove blemishes and scuffs from your car’s paintwork. It works the same way on headlights and you can buy it at any automotive parts store or hardware shop.

Start by washing your headlights with soap and water and leave them to dry. Apply some polishing compound on the headlights and spread it using a soft dry cloth.

Buff the headlight for a few minutes. Make sure you cover the entire headlight and leave it to dry. It will form a hazy coating.

Rinse the headlight once done and wipe it with a dry clean cloth. Repeat this process until your headlights clear up.

3. Sandpaper to sealant

For this solution, you’ll need some painter’s tape, 800-, 1,000- and 2000-grit sandpaper, a lubricant, cleaning polish, and wax sealant.

Start by taping off the part surrounding your vehicle’s headlights. This protects it from getting scratches. Pour some lubricant on the headlight and on the 800-grit sandpaper.

Scrub the yellow headlights in circular motion until you see the top coating lift off. Move to the 1,000-grit sandpaper and do the same. Finish off with the 2,000-grit sandpaper.

Once done, wash the headlights with a cleaner and leave them to dry. Apply cleaning polish and buff it off. Lastly, apply wax sealant to help preserve the clear headlights.

Conclusion

As seen above, there are several solutions you can use to clean your yellow headlights. Some of them do not cost much and only take a few minutes. Whatever you choose to go with, you’re guaranteed to have clear headlights that illuminate the road better at night.