COMPLETE Headlight Restoration Step by Step Tutorial!! Do it right the first time!!!

This is a detailed tutorial on headlight restoration. to complete the restoration. the original lens coating that is failing, must be completely removed. Followed by replacing it with a quqlity non yellowing, UVA UVB resistant clear coat of some kind. I use the KBS Clear DIAMOND Finish.
KBS Clear Diamond Finish.....www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=U...
Flex PE8 Kompact Rotary....www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=U...
Trizact discs....www.amazon.com/gp/search?ie=U...
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[@apexdetail85]

If you are not comfortable with a spray gun...each clear is usually available in an aerosol spray ready can. It is better than nothing at all!😃

[@allenracy7558]

Apex Detail what type of sprayer are you using and can you make a video for how to use the sprayer?

[@billh1355]

are you not worried about over spray with the paint gun?

[@Codriver72]

So you do not do any polish of the clear coat after it is applied?

[@teec3557]

Hi I own a 2006 Mercury Montego. I want to this to my headlights but I read that you cannot do this to these lights because they have a. Factory film over the headlights. Is there any truth to that?

[@GodzillaMX007]

@@Codriver72 Correct, no need to polish.

[@lukeciszewski1149]

Great work Brian. I watched 10s of headlight restoration videos and there is 1000s ways to do it but your way is 100% accurate with what i do. Im not a profesional and i only do my own cars but this is imo the best way. The only thing i do different is using 1500 between 600 and 3000. For all you who is going to follow this video step by step you will not fail.

[@imrichbitch.1937]

*_Brian, your work continues to inspire me. Hope your having a nice summer season, stay cool!_*

[@apexdetail85]

The summer is wonderful!! Thanks!

[@chavezcustomdetailing9540]

I guess we got to forward this video to Scotty Kilmer and show how pros properly restore headlights. Great job as always Brian.😉

[@KD0LRG]

Mario Chavez i was thinking the same thing

[@apexdetail85]

Not sure who that is... but will check it out when I have some down time👍🏻

[@apexdetail85]

Just looked this Kilmer guy up... wonderful... another guy giving advice from his driveway.😏

[@jnajjar2687]

It seems to be that Scotty gives advice from the highest bidder! Just my opinion

[@SherrifOfNottingham]

Not like this channel is a bastion of high quality and good advice. At least scotty kilmer isn't price gouging people

[@Vanguardcredit]

I feel like I have watched every single headlight restoration video on youtube now and I think this is the best method of all

[@richardseem7948]

trust me he does care and does answer texts and emails.im his biggest PIA constantly asking questions and always gets the correct answers back.thanks again Brian...

[@apexdetail85]

Richard Seem sure thing!

[@reddyuda]

Excellent job with that mini spray gun! I have not had any issues with using a high quality clear clear-bra after re-finishing the headlights. Sanding from 800-2000 grit, hitting it with compound + a MF pad, then polish + a foam pad. The 3M clearbra I used on my Mustang headlights lasted 5 years before I sold the car and it still looked great

[@apexdetail85]

Absolutely! Its quality protection. I was referring to those that just throw a wax or sealant on there and expect it to last.

[@SeanTheDetailGuy]

Thank you for the video very informative and thorough

[@apexdetail85]

😁👍🏻

[@Steen_Skov]

Thank you very much for all your videos, Brian. They are excellent :)

[@apexdetail85]

Thank YOU! The support and kind words are appreciated!

[@kryptoknightkid]

This is the best headlight restoration vide ever thank you so much for taking the time to make this.

[@ClockFixer]

I enjoy watching a Professional work!

[@apexdetail85]

Cheers!🍻

[@therushden]

Better than new. Another Apex Detail 👌👊👍😎

[@apexdetail85]

therushden 😁👍🏻

[@GrecoLoscar]

This video definitely has to be on my favorites list

[@QdotRich]

Awesome job!!!

[@jnajjar2687]

Thanks Brian, I'll be looking up that clear. Did my daughter's headlights last fall and the sealant didn't hold up. You called that one 👍

[@inxs13]

Great info !

[@apexdetail85]

Dr. Sudsy 😁👍🏻

[@ryanfay1]

I did the sanding by hand. Did you use a polish compound after and buff by hand? I then used a 1 step headlight restore with the drill attachment, and buffed... I then purchased the meguiars headlight UV protectant clear coat.

[@markeasterling559]

Total Amazing job Brian.

[@apexdetail85]

Thanks Mark!!

[@sspaarrro7359]

Im currently using 3 inch da for headlight restorations, 800 g 1200g 2000g sanding followed by cut and polish and ceramic coating.. should last for around a year hey? my only issue is when using 1200 grit and 2000 grit i feel like it isnt cutting anymore as theres no residue even if i use new discs.. i use them with a soft interface bad. This leads to visible swirls.. not sure what im doing wrong

[@jeremiahbachmann3901]

You would charge $500 for that? Do you rob banks in your spare time too?

[@ripster9713]

LMAO!!!

[@richardseem7948]

another great video my friend.finishes the SUV off now lights r done..

[@apexdetail85]

Like the cherry on top!

[@mlab8]

Super well explained with close ups of the work and a sense of how long you should be doing each step. Subscribing!

[@user-ei9rm8lk2e]

I like your work. Thank you for all information

[@tbeast2454]

You are extremely detailed my friend you are very thorough in your information how and why thank you for letting me learn from you

[@QdotRich]

What grit did you use with the foam block to remove the swirls left by the 3000 grit. 3000 grit just left to right? Thanks!

[@sleepe361]

Very nice work!

[@tedcontreras9729]

Great video,I’m gonna start doing headlights this way,I used to use polish it worked but sometimes I didn’t come out how I would’ve liked,with this technique will the headlights be clear everyrime if I take off the factory coating,seems sometimes the scratches or marks are in the inside,thank you 👍

[@chuckger1625]

What are you using to remove those marks and scuff that is attached to he foam block. any compound used in this step?

[@bchangsf]

Love the intro!

[@BigG616sts]

Thanks mate u have solved my issue. The cracking on the next coat. Id say now i am putting on wet coat and not a medium coat

[@henrinicholson9201]

Great video, thank you for taking the time to explain the whole process step by step. Would it be possible to buff the headlight with G3501 DA Compound before spraying the clear coat? Thanks!

[@starmountmotorsllc1461]

Now That's Great Work,Good Job Brain.

[@apexdetail85]

David Bradley thanks!

[@TopTneRazr]

What did you stick onto the foam block to remove the swirl marks left behind from the 3000 grit sand disk?

[@volarknight5427]

For spraying the coating, would you recommend any air compressors? And other accessories that may be a worthy investment if I will start doing a bunch of these jobs

[@balkantvofficialbackup]

Hello sir When you scuffed from left to right with the foam block, (9:47), you did not say what grit you were using. What did you use?

[@agent_ethan]

500 can cost the headlight, but for most cars you can buy just the lens / cover for 50 bucks or less... so keep in mind on that before charging crazy high prices for restoration.

[@bjraleigh1439]

quite laughable considering those lights would be passable with a quick ten minute polish

[@anomaly72443]

Quite laughable that you can always tell the people who “half-ass” their way through life.

[@stevofla239]

Quiet laughable that everyone thinks that this is a laughable situation

[@anomaly72443]

@@stevofla239 quite laughable that you thought your comment was clever but it was really just quite laughable.

[@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP]

This was Quite laughable in the end.

[@pcdetail602]

Also do I have to use that same kind of sanding disc or can I use or kinds ?

[@Prevstar]

Stunning job

[@apexdetail85]

Thanks Andrew!!

[@squirrelatwork]

2 questions. Can I use an air brush sprayer to coat the lense? And how much do you charge fkr this service?

[@watchdaride]

do you know of any clear coat or ceramic coating you can wipe on with a cloth . my Shop not set up to spray

[@nigelbenjamin5102]

Great job 👏

[@dbj7093]

What if you wet-sand the original coating off with the grits gradually increasing, then polishing it, and then applying a good ceramic coating. How would it hold up against this method?

[@GodzillaMX007]

After using the 3000 grit, what else did you use to uniform them? Thanks

[@justinavery4047]

What kind of sander/angle grinder is that your using? I have been doing it by hand and not removing enough material.

[@mikeyp2447]

You are one of the better teachers on YT! Great info!!

[@apexdetail85]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@smokeysgriddle7993]

After the 3000 what did u scuff it with to remove scratches what pad was on the foam block from 3M?

[@aurorabell1259]

Have you happened to use the purple gravity spray guns from HF?

[@coltcele8420]

Brian, on topic, though off the center, what respirator/mask filtration are you using to protect your lungs? Thanks!

[@JC-mx1mk]

The Diamond clearcoat that you used, is it possible or have you ever tried using a micro-fiber application pad and wipe it on? I would appreciate your thoughts on that.

[@MrBod4life]

Do you use Water and Oil Separator for your Air Compressor? Are they necessary?

[@r1crs2009]

Would the spray can clear they sale do just as good or spray out of the gun

[@MichaelBrianInc]

Is it best to sand by drill or rotary or by hand? Is it just faster that way or does it make sanding down more effective?

[@notsodelusional]

I know it's been a few years, but, Brian, you are the man!

[@b_thegamer7114]

What type of scuffer did you use after the 3k sanding? Thanks!!

[@grandmastert01]

Do you still recommend the KBS ? I was thinking about using meguiars headlight spray. I’m really thinking about getting into just headlight restoration

[@erikg.warner8314]

I have a total noob question.. I have two vehicles that need this and am planning to do it myself. Question is, would the process work with a cheap harbor freight DA polisher? Similar process?

[@ryanfay1]

What are you scuffing with with the foam block? 3000 grit?

[@michaelscott7706]

Also can you use a DA polisher or would it be better to use a rotary

[@pascalhebert3203]

Quick question when you say scuff what do you mean (Scotchbrite)? Thx

[@daniellee5243]

Have you tried oscillating tool to sand headlights instead of polisher?

[@bobbydavis7779]

Whats the longevity of it in place where its always sunny like Las Vegas?

[@gerardogaleana7676]

Do you have a video of your sprayer set it ?

[@stevenbarnett6614]

I am having a problem with the headlights on my 99 Mercedes S320. The chrome coating is starting to come off. Would chrome paint work?

[@apexdetail85]

It will not match... get it re plated.

[@ECXTD]

Have you used the spray can clear coat version? Looking at doing mine just can’t justify buying the can for 1 pair.

[@JC-mx1mk]

what is the shelf life of this Diamond Finish Clearcoat?

[@BulliKid]

What if new headlights cost 100. What would you charge?

[@mreightytwenty8709]

Hi again. Can you tell me. With the KBS Clear, how many coats do you put on...how long between coasts and do you thin the product with thinners. Thanks. Have a great day mate from Australia....

[@caldinho7953]

The foam block he’s using to scuff after using the 3000, is that a specific grit at all? Just foam? I’m a little stumped on that. However, great tutorial.

[@csiautodetail]

Brian. If you have to pick one 3" polisher between your flex DA and the rotary you were using in this video which one you pick?

[@apexdetail85]

The rotary.....easy pick!😃

[@CarloDavid]

Hi Brian, what are your thoughts on using paint protection film over the newly-polished headlights as an alternative to clear coat? I've recently heard claims that ppf is superior to using clear coat as they both yellow after 5 - 7 years, but the ppf is more easily removed and reapplied.

[@keithroberts5611]

So as I explained there's nothing permanent when it comes car headlights!!!

[@CHIBA280CRV]

Wow fantastic job , I would spend the money on the equipment and do it myself ! Lol thanks

[@apexdetail85]

Cheers!!🍻

[@redbaron2448]

Can you use Diamond to clear coat the entire car?

[@conatusenterprisesltd1743]

Seeing that this was done around 4 years ago, can you say how it has been holding up?

[@MrBod4life]

what PSI are you using on the hvlp?

[@Mickey_Bauer]

Wow , that looks beautiful. Thank you for video! Is orange peal noticeable and can you actually wet sand and polish these headlights later on just like a car paint or is there really no need for it?

[@pbakai182]

Hey Brian. I've been testing my own methods similar to yours on scrapyard light assemblies. 800 grit wet on DA, then gray scuff pad going horizontally and spray from there. Have you tried spraying earlier in grits? I have heard high quality CC paints will cover grits as low as 800-1000 with ease.

[@apexdetail85]

I would recommend no lower than 1500 grit. There is no wrong answer if you are getting results. I just want you guys to be successful. A scuff pad is similar to 3000 to 5000 grid sand marks.

[@donvito2491]

Man great videos! This one is great, definitely motivating me to do mine own for my daily. Could you shoot a video with spray can clear? Please and keep the videos coming Brian!

[@apexdetail85]

I will order some👍🏻

[@pbakai182]

Apex Detail Yes many including myself would very much like to see a video with a rattle can. Wonder if the orange peel will require a cut and buff before releasing to customer.

[@batcavecomics4499]

Hey Brian definitely one of the better videos on this I’ve seen. Few Q’s . Do you use 3000 grit to remove the swirl marks? What size reservoirs on your paint gun or how many oz of clear for 1 coat? Do you clean your spray gun after each coat. Thanks for your time. Rob

[@watsonstudios]

What grit disc are you using for final hand scuff before clear coating? You didn't say.

[@apexdetail85]

Clear will fill and bond to 1500 grit or higher with great results.

[@ryanmartin735]

hey not sure if this was answerd but what grit was used on thr final right before spraying clear? thsnk you

[@apexdetail85]

5000 grt....similar to a scuff pad.

[@jetsetjoey]

Does anyone know what exactly is he referring to when he says "... I grab my 'Foam Block" left over from a headlight restoration kit."???

[@DJTHABOSS]

Hey Brian, I’m out of Atlanta. Most places I go want to do the headlight restoration the old fashion way with the sanding blocks and rubbing compound. Where can I go to get the headlight restoration applied the way you do it? A body shop or a high-end detail place?

[@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP]

I do headlight restoration in Atlanta...

[@DJTHABOSS]

@@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP Really, how can I find you? I have a Mercedes Benz CLS 550 2011 that needs the head lights and fog lights done…. Where can I find you?

[@paulrhodes482]

Thank you for another great video! I have to say I have been detailing over 20 years and watched many headlight restoration videos this has got to be my favorite. By the way do you happen to have a link or brand and part number of the plastic you mask with? Thank you for taking the time to make these amazing videos have a wonderful week. -Paul

[@williamking24]

Brian Great video After using 800 & 3000 the lens is still scratchy( cloudy). Did I do something wrong? Should I try 5000 to get cloudiness out? Want to get it clear before sealing it Thanks

[@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP]

What did you use for the cloudiness after the 3000 grit?

[@zir786]

9:46 what did you use?? 3000 disc?

[@gregfisher216]

Great Video Brian as always,would a DA do the job or do you need the torque of the rotary ?3M is rather pricey ,would a less expense 3" disk work as well?

[@apexdetail85]

The DA will work...just a bit slower. There are cheaper discs out there that take some time to find.

[@VictorHernandez-nt3tw]

Awesome work... definitely worth it to clear coat it if you’re charging them that amount. People might say that’s too much money but hey... buy a new set and then it won’t have as long of protection and you will pay double and have to pay someone to replace or spend time yourself to replace the set. Question. How long you let it cure for after the last coat, before you can drive it or take it outside"

[@apexdetail85]

3 hours... then it can head out doors.

[@turfdancer78]

Finally a detailed who suggest clear coat... 2k is the way to go!

[@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP]

I hear 2k clear can damage the polycarbonate?

[@campuzanoivan21]

Where did you get those plastic covers?

[@virendrawate2128]

Can I restored with out clear coat or by ceramic coat after polishing headlight. Please answer. 🙏

[@apexdetail85]

Absolutely...it will only protect for as long as the coating lasts.

[@bsfunk44]

Polish the headlight then use film like lamin-x, more protection than clear coat and protects against uv.

[@INTIREMOBILETIRESHOP]

For $500... Why not

[@mohamedbendahib2032]

Thanks Brian for this great video, How long does this coat last ? Also what's ur opinion about using 3 inches DA pneumatic polisher for that ?

[@apexdetail85]

I offer a warranty for as long as they own the car. Have never had a return customer. DA would work just fine.

[@JC-mx1mk]

When you scuffed from left to right with the foam block, (9:47), you did not say what grit you were using. What did you use?

[@MrBod4life]

I too would like to know

[@balkantvofficialbackup]

ikr i hate when people always forget the most important part grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

[@akaredcrossbow]

Johnny Chaney should still be 3000 grit, but going side to side up and down in strait lines to remove the swirls.

[@PickledAmericano]

@freezeme360 swirl marks will cause noticeable diffraction (splotchy, uneven light.) That last step clears that up

[@PickledAmericano]

@freezeme360 it probably isn't totally necessary, but when I did mine following this process I turned the headlights on at various stages..after 3000g machine sanding there was uneven diffraction. After hand-sanding there is none. (Technically there IS diffraction, it's just even...optics are weird) A layer of clear would not get rid of the uneven-ness. Again, probably unnecessary and most people wouldn't notice it but if you're charging hundreds of dollars you might as well go for perfection

[@gearhead2175]

Yet another fantastic and informative video. I'm still waiting to see if it sold and how much you made on the Escalade. Like a soap opera, I just can't stop watching lol.

[@MichaudDaniel]

I went on Amazon and i can't find the KBS .....

[@logvn.ricvrd]

What was on the foam block that you used after the 3000 grit? Was it still a 3000 grit pad?

[@apexdetail85]

Oh... sorry... 5000 grit equivalent to a scuff pad.

[@dukeking550]

So brian if I dont have 5000 grit can I use an actual scuff pad? And if yes which color scuff and brand do you suggest.

[@apexdetail85]

Absolutely...this would work...www.bavauto.com/bmw-scuff-pad-158544003?msclkid=f516db21163c1de749df806850f1d784

[@kaylarun123]

Is there any way to stop this from happening especially if parking in the sun is the only option? I just brought a new car and I really want to keep everything as new as possible especially since I have those nice clear blue led headlights

[@pbakai182]

kayla runyon I mean, I suppose you could throw some type of material over the headlights while it sits outside temporarily. There's a marketing idea here somehow lol

[@apexdetail85]

Prevention is key....I suggest someone installing protective film on the lense...PPF

[@apexdetail85]

www.invisiblemask.com/clearbra_land.html?_vsrefdom=adwords&msclkid=b64d40d643011f353c5a1b9c7cc86249

[@MichaelBrianInc]

Amazing work btw! What clear do you recommend especially if providing a mobile service? Also noticed you didn’t compound or polish after sanding and before the clear coat... Any reason why in this case?

[@hillsheadlightrestoration]

Headlight coating is highly recommended

[@ericschott5100]

I was shocked to hear you charge $500 for that... more power to ya!

[@williamking24]

Brian, I must of missed this, but what grit paper where you using at the end with foam pad by hand? Thanks great Video

[@tattoosmakemehorny]

He says 5000 grit in one of his responses from 2 years ago.

[@HristovRumen]

I don't understand how dafuq will clear coat stick to that. We sand with 420-600 over primer before we paint base coat. How will clear stick to fuckin 3000,...5000... what the fuck?

[@anguslean4058]

@@HristovRumen most guys stop at 800 grit and finish horizontally with it and then spray.