Cloudy or hazy headlights can reduce visibility and make your car look older and neglected. Fortunately, cleaning them is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your car’s cloudy headlights:

1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need the following items:
   • Masking tape or painter’s tape
   • Car soap or dishwashing detergent
   • Water
   • Sandpaper (grits: 800, 1000, 2000)
   • Plastic or metal polish
   • Microfiber towels
   • UV sealant or clear coat (optional)
2. Tape off the area: Use masking tape or painter’s tape to protect the paint around the headlights. This step will prevent accidental scratching or damage.
3. Wash the headlights: Mix car soap or dishwashing detergent with water to create a soapy solution. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to wash the headlights thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a microfiber towel.
4. Wet sanding: Wet sanding helps remove the oxidized layer on the headlights. Start with the 800-grit sandpaper and soak it in water for a few minutes. Keep the sandpaper wet throughout the process. Gently sand the headlight surface using horizontal or vertical strokes. Continue sanding until the surface feels smooth. Rinse the headlight and sandpaper frequently to remove debris.
5. Move to higher grit sandpaper: Repeat the wet sanding process with the 1000-grit sandpaper and then the 2000-grit sandpaper. Each time, sand in a different direction from the previous grit to ensure even coverage. Rinse and clean the headlight after each sanding.
6. Polish the headlights: Apply a small amount of plastic or metal polish to a clean microfiber towel. Rub the polish onto the headlight surface using circular motions. Continue polishing until the headlight appears clear and shiny. Wipe off any excess polish with a clean microfiber towel.
7. Apply UV sealant or clear coat (optional): To protect the headlights from future oxidation, you can apply a UV sealant or clear coat. Follow the instructions on the product and apply it evenly to the headlight surface. Allow it to dry completely.
8. Remove the tape: Carefully remove the masking tape or painter’s tape from around the headlights.

By following these steps, you should be able to restore clarity to your car’s headlights. However, if the cloudiness persists or if the headlights are severely damaged, it may be necessary to consider replacing them or seeking professional assistance.

1. Clean the headlights: Start by washing the headlights with soap and water to remove any surface dirt or grime. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to scrub the headlights gently. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber towel.
2. Assess the haze: Determine the severity of the haze on your headlights. If it is a light haze, you can try using household items for cleaning. For more severe haze or damage, specialized headlight restoration kits may be required.
3. Toothpaste method: This method can work for mild haze. Apply a small amount of regular toothpaste (not gel) directly onto the headlight surface. Rub the toothpaste in a circular motion using a soft cloth or a toothbrush. Continue rubbing for a few minutes and then rinse off the toothpaste with water. Dry the headlights with a clean cloth.
4. Baking soda and vinegar method: Create a paste by mixing baking soda and white vinegar. Apply the paste to the headlights and rub it in using a soft cloth. Leave the paste on for a few minutes, and then rinse it off with water. Dry the headlights with a clean cloth.
5. Commercial headlight restoration kit: If the haze persists after attempting the DIY methods, you can purchase a headlight restoration kit from an auto parts store. These kits typically include sandpaper, polishing compound, and a sealant. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to remove the haze effectively. The process generally involves sanding the headlights to remove the top layer, polishing the surface, and applying a sealant to protect the headlights.
6. Professional assistance: If the haze is severe or if the DIY methods do not produce satisfactory results, it may be best to seek professional assistance. Professional detailers or auto repair shops have specialized equipment and expertise to restore heavily hazed headlights.

Remember, regular maintenance and protection of your headlights can help prevent future haze. Consider applying a UV sealant or clear coat to protect the headlights from oxidation and keep them clear for longer periods.