How to Remove Fog and Fading from Headlights
Author: Toby Date Posted:21 February 2025
Tired of your car's headlights looking dull and foggy? You're not alone.
Australian weather – with all its sun, dust, and rain – takes a toll on headlights, making them cloudy and less effective. But don't worry, you don't need to be a mechanic to fix this.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to clean faded headlights so you can see better at night and keep your car looking its best.
Why Do Headlights Get Foggy?
Your headlights have a tough job, and over time, they’re bound to take a beating. Here are a few reasons why they get foggy:
- The Aussie Sun - The UV rays can bake the plastic, causing it to fade or yellow.
- Dirt and Grime - Road debris, dust, and grime can stick to the surface, making it dull.
- Oxidation - When the plastic reacts with oxygen, it forms a cloudy layer on the surface.
Foggy headlights aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they’re a safety hazard too. Dim headlights reduce visibility, especially during nighttime or poor weather conditions, so it’s important to keep them clear.
What You’ll Need
Before you get stuck in, grab a few things:
- Microfibre cloths
- Masking tape
- Sandpaper (800, 1000, and 2000 grit)
- Headlight restoration kit or plastic polish
- A spray bottle with water
- Soap and water
- UV sealant (this is key to keeping them clear for longer)
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Foggy Headlights
1. Start with a Good Clean
First, give your headlights a proper wash with soap and water. This gets rid of all the surface dirt and makes the rest of the job easier. Dry them off with a clean microfibre cloth.
2. Protect the Paint
Use masking tape to cover the edges around your headlights. Trust me, you don’t want to accidentally scratch your paint with sandpaper!
3. Sanding the Headlights
If your headlights are really cloudy, wet sanding is your best bet. Here’s how to do it:
Start with 800-grit sandpaper. Spray the headlight and the sandpaper with water to keep it nice and damp, then sand in small circular motions.
Move up to 1000-grit, then 2000-grit, to smooth everything out.
Keep spraying water as you go so the surface stays wet—it makes the sanding process much easier.
If your headlights aren’t too bad, you might be able to skip this step and go straight to polishing.
4. Polish It Up
Grab your headlight polish (or a kit if you’ve got one) and apply it to a microfibre cloth. Work it into the headlight using circular motions. This step really helps to deoxidise headlights and bring back that clear, shiny finish.
5. Seal the Deal
Once your headlights are looking clear, apply a UV sealant. This step is super important—it protects your headlights from getting foggy again. Just spray it on and let it dry, and you’re good to go.
Why Bother Restoring Your Headlights?
Fixing your foggy headlights isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a practical step toward safer driving. Clear headlights provide better illumination, which means improved visibility and quicker reaction times on the road. Plus, cleaning them is a lot cheaper than replacing them entirely.
Tips to Keep Your Headlights Looking Good
After putting in the effort to clean your headlights, you’ll want to keep them looking fresh. Here are some easy tips:
- Wash Them Regularly - Just like the rest of your car, your headlights need regular cleaning to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Use a UV Sealant - Reapply a UV sealant every few months to keep oxidation at bay.
- Park in the Shade - Whenever possible, park in a garage or undercover to protect your headlights from harsh sunlight.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals - Some cleaning products can damage the protective coating on your headlights, so stick to products made for car care.
When to Replace Your Headlights
Sometimes, no amount of cleaning will do the trick. If your headlights are cracked, deeply yellowed, or simply not bright enough even after restoration, it might be time to replace them.
Replacing your headlights isn’t just about visibility—it’s also a safety feature that ensures other drivers can see you clearly on the road.
Brighten Up Your Ride with Superspares
Need a hand? Check out Superspares for all your car lighting needs. Whether it’s headlight restoration kits, UV sealants, or full replacements, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t let foggy headlights dim your drive. Grab your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get your headlights sparkling again. It’s a simple job that makes a huge difference in how your car looks—and how safely it performs on the road.
Your headlights will thank you, and so will anyone driving in front of you!
