[HwnMurano]

This doesn't apply to a new MO, but it's something I was curious about...

Have you noticed that the clear plastic headlight covers (the ones that go over the actual headlight lenses and assemblies) get hazy on some of the older cars? Some of them almost look like they're translucent as opposed to transparent after they've gotten hazed. This must reduce the efficiency of the headlight's illumination of the road at night.

We have these clear headlight covers on our MOs. I'm guessing that a combination of old age and sun exposure might cause the problem. Thus, some of us may be faced with this problem in a few years if we park our MO in the sun often.

Anyone know of a detailing method that would fix the problem?

 

[dklanecky1]

Nissan produced a TSB for this exact issue on my 00 Maxima SE and their solution for the dealerships was to use 3M's Plastic Cleaner (#39017) followed with 3M Plastic Polish (#39010).

I bought a bottle of each (8oz size) a couple of years ago and still have 3/4's of each still un-used. I use it probably twice a year on each vehicle.

You can also use any light cut cleaner (I really like Hi-Temp Light Power Cut Leveler #HT-61) and a buffer if you have it available
which is a lot faster but will cost you significantly more.

I used the ht-61 and my Porter Cable buffer on a really hazed up 98 Honda Accords headlights and they look brand new again.

 

[HwnMurano]

Thanks dklanecky1!

Do you attribute the hazing to sun exposure?

 

[dklanecky1]

I can't imagine what else it could be other than sun.

I suppose there's some kind of chemical reaction that causes the plastic fogging or deteriorating because of the UV rays.

The plastic cleaner and polish also work wonders on plastic eyeglasses (which is what I use the stuff on most of the time).

 

[EdMPT]

I always figured road debris was the problem. I thought rocks, bugs, and dust must sandblast the plastic at hightway speeds. I never thought about the sun...hmmm

 

[Gonzo]

Might also be related to poltants in the atmosphere.

 

[Mike Brown]

Hazing headlight covers

Any kind of plastic polish is good. Do not use any products designed to clean glass! If there is a General Aviation airport close by, try a pilot supply store. There are a large number of products designed for cleaning and polishing aircraft plastic windshields and windows.

 

[Gonzo]

Hmmmm I didn't even think of that and I'm a pilot that uses stuff like that. Thanks for the suggestion... no idea why I didn't think of it.

You can also order aviation items like that from Sporty's Pilot Shop.

 

[GripperDon]

Even, Good Old Collinites Insulator wax works. Grip

 

[UncaDanno]

Back in the day, there was a "polish" that riders used on their motorcycle helmet faceshields.....

Toothpaste.


Not gel, but paste.

 

[Ohio Murano]

The toothpaste should make them whiter and brighter!!! At least that is what it says on the tube.

 

[njmo]

Mothers Mag & Aluminum Polish

I have used this stuff to take the cloudiness away and restore shine to chrome and mag wheels. I experimented with it on old clear parking lights on a 85 Chevy van and it cleared up the yellowing. Now I use it confidentally on all clear plastic car lenses when they appear faded. Use a small dab on a soft cloth and gently rub in a circular motion. You will see the cloth discolor as it removes the dirt. It works! Good Luck!

 

[GripperDon]

But why does it happen?

I have been looking everywhere to try and fine the cause. I used to think it was sunlight, and it may be I want to talk to some one who has stored a car inside with a full cover and ask if it still happens. I can't seem to fine the answer on the web and I have looked hard.

GRIP

 

[hfelknor]

Just shotgunning here....I don't know what causes the problem.

But, if it is the sun, and if by "the Sun", we mean UV rays, then Zaino may help.

Zaino provides UV protection. UV 40.

I have always "done" my headlights (Tailights too!) with Zaino while putting a coat on the paint.
Never had hazing, but that doesn't mean too much I would guess.

Just a thought.


Homer

 

[GripperDon]

Homer you MAY be right

I don't know but I sure would love to get a set of headlight cover and do a little experiment, One in the sun. One inside., One inside and covered, One in the sun but sealed in a large glass vacuum bell jar.

Bet the answer would pop up quickly. Better experimental approach is, I am sure possible, but this is a spur of the moment quickie. GRIP

 

[MOpar]

Clear-guard recommends the 303 Aerospace Protectant against UV for their tinted films.Probably good for headlight covers to. They are using the smoke tint on tail lights.

 

[GripperDon]

MOpar

Hope you got my message about the reason I lost you at Pinnacle, sorry. Did you ever get any of the Clear_Gaurd film? I did get the key "Next DAY" that guy that runs parts Jason, nice guy that he is< overnighted it from LA.

I did go ahead and get a stick on rear bumper protector from him, figured it would offerr more protection than the film. My driving lights are full of water, No biggie, have to change to the 85 watt draw lamps anyway and will RTV them tight at the same time. GRIP

 

[MOpar]

Wet sanded,400,600,100,1500,2000 then used Simi Crome polish on my Caravan headlight/parking light covers.They are crystal clear again.Most mid to late 90's Chrysler product van covers look bad, at least here in AZ.

 

[SSpiro]

I was going to post about this. My other vehicle is a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the headlights are AWEFUL. I was hoping the Mo didn't have this issue.

So best bet to prevent this from happening is using a plastic cleaner and protectant once a month or so?