If you drive a car, then at some point, you will have to deal with headlights that have turned yellow. While it’s not a huge deal, it’s definitely unsightly and can make your car look aged. In this post, we’ll explain what causes headlights to be yellow and show you how to stop headlights from yellowing. We’ll also share some tips for cleaning your headlights if they have already begun to yellow. Keep reading for more information!
Summary: If you’re noticing yellowing in your headlights, there are a few things you can do to stop the process. First, make sure you’re using headlight lubricant every time you drive. This will help keep the headlight lens clean and free from dust and other contaminants. Second, try washing your headlight lenses regularly with a mild soap and water. Finally, avoid driving in extremely dusty or dirty conditions, as these will increase the likelihood of headlight lens damage.
What Causes Headlights to Yellow?
Headlights turn yellow for several reasons. The most common reason is simply aging. Over time, the clear plastic that makes up headlights begins to oxidize and turn yellow. This process is accelerated by exposure to UV light, which is why you might notice that your headlights look more yellow in the summer than in the winter.
Another common reason for yellow headlights is road debris. Small rocks and other bits of debris can chip away at the clear plastic, causing it to turn yellow. Likewise, if you regularly drive on dirt or gravel roads, your headlights are more likely to become yellowed.
Additionally, some car cleaners and polishes can cause headlights to be yellow. If you regularly use these products on your car, the headlights may turn yellow more quickly. The other main reason for yellow headlights is improper care. If you don’t regularly clean your headlights, they can become caked with dirt, grime, and other debris.
This not only makes them look yellow, but it can also make them less effective at lighting up the road ahead of you. Lastly, if you don’t properly protect your headlights, they may become scratched or pitted, which can also cause them to turn yellow.
Why Should You Stop Headlights From Yellowing?
Aside from the fact that yellow headlights are unsightly, there are a few other reasons why you should try to stop them from yellowing. First, yellow headlights can reduce your visibility while driving at night. If your headlights are significantly yellowed, they can cause glare and make it difficult to see other vehicles on the road. This can lead to accidents. Second, yellow headlights can also reduce the lifespan of your headlights. The yellowing is caused by a build-up of UV rays, dirt, and other debris.
This can cause the headlight to crack and eventually break. Third, yellow headlights can decrease the value of your vehicle. If you plan on selling or trading in your car, yellow headlights will likely result in a lower offer. Finally, yellow headlights are just plain ugly. If you want your car to look its best, you should try to keep your headlights looking new.
10 Ways How to Stop Headlights From Yellowing:
1. Keep Your Car Clean
One of the best ways to prevent yellowing headlights is to clean your car. This includes washing both the exterior and interior of your car regularly. To do this, you can use various car cleaners and polishes. First, wash the exterior of your car with soap and water. Then, use a cleaner or polish specifically designed for cars to clean the interior. This will help remove any dirt, grime, or debris that could cause your headlights to be yellow. Finally, be sure to vacuum the interior of your car and clean the windows to allow as much light as possible.
2. Use a Headlight Protectant
Another way to prevent yellowing headlights is to use a headlight protectant. This is a clear coating that you can apply to your headlights. It will help protect the plastic from UV rays, dirt, and debris. There are many headlight protectants on the market, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for headlights.
First, clean your headlights with soapy water and a microfiber cloth. Then, apply the headlight protectant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you live in an area with many suns, you may need to reapply the headlight protectant every few months.
3. Apply a Uv Protectant
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause your headlights to be yellow, so protecting them from the sun is important. One way to do this is to apply a UV protectant to your headlights. This clear coating will help block out the sun’s UV rays. Many different brands of UV protectants are available, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with your vehicle.
First, clean your headlights with soapy water and a microfiber cloth. Next, apply the UV protectant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you live in an area with a lot of suns, you may need to reapply the UV protectant every few months.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can cause your headlights to be yellow, so it’s important to avoid them. This includes household cleaners, car wash solutions, and even some soaps. If you must use a cleaning product on your headlights, make sure it is designed for automotive use and gentle. If you are unsure, test the product on a small area of the headlight before using it.
5. Store Your Car in a Garage
If you have the option, store your car in a garage or covered area. This will help protect your headlights from the sun’s UV rays and from debris. Consider investing in a car cover if you don’t have a garage. Be sure to choose one specifically designed for your vehicle and covers the headlights.
6. Use a Microfiber Cloth
When cleaning your headlights, be sure to use a microfiber cloth. This type of cloth is gentle and will not scratch the headlight. It is also effective at removing debris and dirt. To clean your headlights, first wet the microfiber cloth with soapy water. Then, gently scrub the headlight in a circular motion. Rinse the headlight with clean water and dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.
7. Apply a Headlight Restoration Kit
If your headlights are severely yellowed, you may need to use a headlight restoration kit. These kits usually come with sandpaper and a polishing compound. You’ll need to use sandpaper to sand down the yellowed layer of plastic and then use the polishing compound to restore the headlight’s shine. If you’ve never used a headlight restoration kit before, be sure to read the instructions carefully. It’s also a good idea to practice on a small headlight area before doing the entire headlight.
8. Wax Your Car
Waxing your car can also help prevent yellowing headlights. This is because the wax will create a barrier between the headlight and the elements. Waxing your car regularly will help to keep the headlights looking clear and new. First, wash your car and then dry it completely. Then, apply a thin layer of car wax to the headlight. Allow the wax to dry and then buff it off. Repeat this process every few months to keep the headlights looking clear.
9. Polish Your Headlights
Polishing your headlights can also help to prevent them from yellowing. This is because the polish will create a barrier between the headlight and the elements. You can use a commercial headlight polish or make your own by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water. Apply the polish to the headlight with a soft cloth, and then buff it off. If your headlights are very dull, you may need to repeat this process a few times.
10. Apply a Sealant
Applying a sealant to your headlights can also help to prevent them from yellowing. This is because the sealant will create a barrier between the headlight and the elements, including UV rays. There are several different sealants available on the market, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for use on headlights. Sealants can be applied similarly to polishes, so be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Once applied, the sealant will need to be left to dry for some time before being buffed off.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Yellow Headlights?
The cost of fixing yellow headlights can vary depending on the severity of the problem and the chosen method of repair. For example, if you only need to clean your headlights, this can be done at home with a few household supplies. However, if your headlights are severely yellowed, you may need to use a headlight restoration kit, which can cost around $30. If you choose to have a professional fix your yellow headlights, the cost can range from $100 to $300.
Is It Safe to Drive With Yellow Headlights?
While yellow headlights are not illegal, they can be dangerous. This is because yellow headlights can make it more difficult to see at night. Yellow headlights can also make it more difficult for other drivers to see your car, leading to an accident. Therefore, if you have yellow headlights, it is important to take steps to fix them as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Headlight Yellowing?
Headlights yellow over time as a result of the harsh blue light that is emitted from them. This light causes the plastic to break down, which then leads to darkness in the area around the headlights. Over time, this darkness will spread and impact visibility in all directions.
Can Yellow Headlights Be Restored?
many people believe that it’s possible with the help of a professional. If you’re willing to invest in the necessary tools and materials, there may be a chance that you can restore your headlights yourself. However, doing so is not recommended unless you are an experienced mechanic or have undergone extensive training. Any repairs done without proper knowledge or equipment could potentially result in further damage or even failure of your car’s engine.
If you decide to try restoring your headlights on your own, make sure to do so only after consulting with a reputable automotive technician who will be able to provide accurate information and advice regarding the restoration process. They also should be able to give you an estimate for the cost of materials and labor involved.
Will Wax Protect Headlights From Yellowing?
Wax is a natural product that can be used to protect headlights from yellowing. It comes in a variety of formulations, including liquid, paste, and spray. The most effective way to apply wax is to apply a thin coat to the headlights and then buff it out using a cloth or microfiber cloth.
What Home Remedy Cleans Headlights?
Headlights are one of the most common places where dirt and dust buildup occurs. One way to clean them is with a diluted vinegar solution. Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, shake it well, and use it to clean your headlights. Be sure to rinse off any excess before driving.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about how to stop headlights from yellowing. Following this article’s tips and advice, you can keep your headlights looking clear and new. So don’t wait any longer; get out there and clean those headlights!
