323-255-7711

4802 EAGLE ROCK BLVD., LOS ANGELES CA 90041

CARTEK Collision

Over time, it’s normal for headlights to lose their shine. Headlights on most modern cars are manufactured from polycarbonate plastic, which degrade from exposure to UV rays and get clouded over. This can be a hazard to your safety — especially while driving at night. However, you can eliminate this residue by cleaning your car’s headlights.

If your headlights are looking hazy while driving through Eagle Rock, Los Angeles, Pasadena or Glendale, follow CarTek Collision’s step-by-step instructions to restore their original shine.

Step 1: Preparing to Clean Your Headlights
Use soap and water or a glass cleaner to remove as much dirt from your headlights as possible. Once the area is dry, tape the area surrounding your headlights to prevent your vehicle’s paint from getting sanded off. Once you’re finished prepping, you’re ready to start cleaning your headlights.

Step 2: Sanding Your Headlights
Thoroughly sanding your headlights is the first and most important step to cleaning them. This clears away its discolored, hazy outer surface. Once you’ve finished, your headlights should have a rough surface and be clear of any yellowing.

Step 3: Polishing Your Headlights 
Using polish will clean the sandpaper scratches and clear your headlight lenses. This should brighten your headlights and improve visibility.

Step 4: Applying a UV Sealant
Headlights get worn down from too much UV exposure. Sanding them removes whatever protective layer is left, so it’s important to reapply a sealant to prevent your headlights from clouded over again. If you don’t, your headlights could cloud over again within a matter of weeks.

Realigning Your Headlights After Cleaning 

Some drivers like to remove their headlights while cleaning them. If you do, you must line them up properly after reinstalling them. Here’s how:

  • Park your car a few inches away from your garage door. Make sure the surface is level.
  • Turn on your headlights
  • Use a piece of chalk to mark where your headlight beam falls.
  • Back up approximately 25 feet. Your low beams should be level with the chalk marks.
  • If your beams aren’t level, use the headlights’ two setscrews to adjust the beams.


Clean Your Headlights at CarTek Collision

If you need help cleaning your headlights or other auto detailing services, CarTek Collision would be happy to assist you. Our I-CAR Gold Class technicians can get your headlights shining like new again and will inspect their surfaces for scratches or damage.

When your headlights need attention, schedule a servicing appointment at CarTek Collision, conveniently located at 4802 Eagle Rock Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90041. For immediate assistance, call CarTek Collision during our business hours from 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday -Friday and 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday at 323-255-7711.