If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t give much thought to your car’s headlights – until they start to yellow. Once that happens, it’s hard not to notice, and the discoloration can be an eyesore. But before you rush out to buy new headlights, know that there are a few ways to prevent them from yellowing in the first place. In this article, we’ll share tips on how to prevent headlights from yellowing. So read on for tips on how to keep your headlights shining bright.
Summary: If you want to keep your headlights from yellowing over time, there are a few things you can do. First of all, use a good quality lightbulb. Secondly, avoid parking your car in direct sunlight. Finally, make sure to clean your headlight lenses every couple of months.
What Causes Headlights to Yellow?
There are a few factors that can cause your headlights to be yellow, including:
Sun Exposure:
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause the plastic in your headlights to break down over time. This process is known as photooxidation, which is the main reason car headlights yellow with age.
Road Debris:
Another factor that can cause your headlights to be yellow is road debris. Small rocks and other particles can chip the clear coating on your headlights, which will cause the headlight to yellow over time. It’s important to note that most car insurance policies do not cover this type of damage.
Weather Conditions:
Extreme weather conditions can also cause your headlights to be yellow. Hot temperatures can cause the plastic in your headlights to warp, while cold temperatures can make the headlight material brittle and more susceptible to cracking.
Poor Quality Headlights:
If you’ve ever bought a cheap pair of headlights, you know that they don’t last as long as the more expensive ones. This is because they’re made with lower-quality materials that are more prone to yellowing.
Cleaning Products:
Certain cleaning products can also cause your headlights to be yellow. This is because some cleaning products contain chemicals that can damage the clear coating on your headlights. Therefore, it’s important to read the labels on all cleaning products before using them on your headlights.
A Complete Guide on How to Prevent Headlights From Yellowing
1. Use a Uv Protectant:
One of the best ways to prevent your headlights from yellowing is to use a UV protectant. This product will create a barrier between your headlights and the sun’s UV rays. Uv protectants are available in both spray and wipe-on formulas. If you’re using a spray, be sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area.
2. Keep Them Clean:
One of the best ways to keep your headlights clean and bright is to wash them regularly. You can use a mild soap and water solution or a commercial headlight cleaner. Just be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it won’t damage your headlights. You can test it on a small area first if you’re unsure.
3. Park in the Shade:
Whenever possible, try to park in the shade. This will help prevent your headlights from yellowing by keeping them out of direct sunlight. Park in a garage or under a tree if possible.
4. Use a Car Cover:
If you can’t park in the shade, another option is to use a car cover. This will help protect your headlights from the sun’s UV rays. Be sure to choose a car cover made from a breathable material to prevent moisture build-up. If you live in a hot climate, look for a car cover specifically designed to reflect the sun’s rays.
5. Wax Your Headlights:
To protect your headlights from yellowing, you can wax them. This will create a barrier between the headlight and the sun’s UV rays. Be sure to choose a quality car wax that won’t damage your headlights. Then, apply the wax according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to wax your headlights more often.
6. Clean Your Headlights With Vinegar:
If your headlights are starting to look yellow, you can try cleaning them with vinegar. Vinegar is an acidic cleaner that can help remove the yellowing. Be sure to dilute the vinegar with water before using it on your headlights. Apply the solution to a clean cloth and wipe it over the surface of your headlights. Let the solution sit for several minutes before rinsing it off with water.
7. Polish Your Headlights:
If your headlights are yellow, you may need to polish them. This will help remove the damaged layer of plastic and reveal the clear headlight beneath. Be sure to choose a headlight polish specifically designed for plastic headlights. Then, apply the polish according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your polish isn’t working, you can try using a power drill with a polishing attachment.
8. Use a Headlight Restoration Kit:
Headlight restoration kits are another option for yellowed headlights. These kits contain everything you need to restore your headlights, including sandpaper, polishing compound, and a UV protectant. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you don’t damage your headlights. To use the kit, you’ll need to sand down the yellowed layer of plastic. Next, apply the polishing compound and buff it out. Finally, apply the UV protectant to help prevent your headlights from yellowing again.
9. Replace Your Headlight Sealant:
If your headlights are severely yellowed, you may need to replace the sealant around them. This will help prevent moisture and dirt from getting inside and causing them to be yellow. Be sure to choose a headlight sealant specifically designed for plastic headlights. Then, apply the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the headlight lenses with a microfiber cloth. If they are still yellow, buff them with rubbing compound. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get rid of all the yellowing.
10. Avoid Hot Temperatures:
Avoiding hot temperatures is one of the best ways to prevent your headlights from yellowing. This includes keeping them out of direct sunlight and avoiding parking in hot weather. If you live in a hot climate, try to park in the shade or use a car cover. You should also avoid washing your car in hot weather. The heat can cause the wax on your headlights to melt and enter the headlight’s pores, causing them to be yellow.
11. Use a Uv Blocker:
You can also use a UV blocker to help prevent your headlights from yellowing. This will create a barrier between the headlight and the sun’s UV rays. Be sure to choose a UV blocker specifically designed for plastic headlights. Then, apply the UV blocker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to reapply the UV blocker more often.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Yellow Headlights?
The cost of fixing yellow headlights can vary depending on your chosen method. If you opt for a headlight restoration kit, the cost will be around $30. If you need to replace the sealant around your headlights, the cost will be around $50. And if you need to replace your headlights, the cost will be around $200. Normally, it’s best to avoid replacing your headlights unless they’re severely damaged. This is because replacement headlights can be difficult to install and may not match the rest of your car.
Additional Tips and Warnings on How to Prevent Headlights From Yellowing
Tips:
- Be sure to clean your headlights regularly with a headlight cleaning kit.
- Be careful when using harsh chemicals or abrasives on your headlights, as they can damage the protective coating and cause yellowing.
- If you live in an area with a lot of pollution or road salt, wash your headlights more often to prevent build-up.
- Always use caution when working with any chemicals, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Warnings:
- Do not drive with your headlights on during the day, as this can damage the bulbs and cause yellowing.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives on your headlights, as they can damage the protective coating and cause yellowing.
- If you are unsure how to clean your headlights properly, take them to a professional for cleaning.
Can I Use Ceramic Coating on Headlights?
Ceramic coating can be used on headlights to protect them from yellowing. The coating creates a barrier between the headlight and the sun’s UV rays. This will help to prevent the headlight from yellowing over time. Ceramic coating can be applied by a professional or by the owner of the vehicle. First, the headlight must be cleaned and sanded down. Next, the ceramic coating is applied to the headlight. Finally, the headlight is cured with UV light. The ceramic coating typically lasts for two to three years. The cost of ceramic coating can vary depending on the size of the headlights and the type of coating used. Usually, the price will be around $100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Wax Protect Headlights From Yellowing?
Yes, wax can help to protect headlights from yellowing. By applying a layer of wax to the headlight every time you wash your car, you will keep surface pollen and other contaminants from adhering to the light bulb and causing it to yellow over time.
What Causes Headlights to Turn Yellow?
Headlights can turn yellow for a variety of reasons, the most common of which is age. Headlights are designed to produce a high level of visibility so that you can see in low-light conditions, and as they get older, their Luminous Intensity decreases. This leads to reduced illumination when Driving or during normal use.
Another cause is sand/dust build-up on the headlight lens caused by road commuting or long car rides. The result is an increase in glare and less visible night driving conditions. Finally, some paints used on headlights contain yellow 5 dye which slowly discolors with time due to oxidation (atoms joining together).
Should You Wax Your Headlights?
the decision of whether or not to wax your headlights ultimately comes down to personal preference. That said, if you’re in the market for a new set of headlights, it may be a good idea to consider waxing them – it will likely increase their lifespan and make them look better. Keep in mind that waxing your headlights will also require some upkeep – you will need to apply a fresh layer of wax every few weeks in order to maintain their shine.
Can Yellow Headlights Be Restored?
Yes, yellow headlights can be restored. There are a few different methods that you can use to restore your yellow headlights, and the best one for you will depend on the condition of your lights. If they’re just oxidized or flaking off, then you may want to try applying a clear coat over the existing paint. This will help to protect them from further damage and make them look new again. Alternatively, if they’ve been damaged by rust or corrosion, then you may need to replace them completely.
Conclusion
This article has provided you with several tips on how to prevent headlights from yellowing. Headlights are an important part of your car and should be kept in good condition. Not only do they help you see better while driving at night, but they can also help you avoid getting pulled over. By following these tips for how to prevent headlights from yellowing, you can keep your car looking great and improve your safety on the road.
