THE Best Headlight Repair Method. Long Lasting, DIY Fix. Save Money!!

This method is by far THE best method for a more permanent headlight fix.
In this video we repair and refinish the Head lights to a better than factory finish!
learn the technique with this full tutorial. Fix corrosion and oxidation on your head lamps. Avoid MOT and roadworthy car test failures. Don't repair... replace!
For all the tools and materials used please see the tagged products and also our KZbin store.

[@rodjohnson2632]

Finally someone shows how to do headlight restoration correctly! There are dozens if not hundreds of methods on YT and elsewhere claiming to do the job easily in minutes, but the truth is, there's no shortcut that works. It takes considerable elbow grease, with several progressively finer sandpaper grits, exactly as shown here. Thanks!

[@blackinblue11]

Immaculate as always. People comment about sanding directions, if you are unexperienced then yes, it's easier to see if you removed scratches from previous stage. But this dude has a miles and miles in his hands and can sand with he's eyes closed. Thanks for the clear video as always, cheers!

[@MisterAjxr6]

Love it.. No bullshit, no time wasting, just straight to the point and very informative 💯👌🏻

[@cvrpov]

Always 👊🏻

[@dziadWSZEWIED]

@@cvrpov bardzo pomocne informacje, dziękuję ! ;)

[@stevenlengyel9701]

However I don’t need to see every piece of tape being applied

[@MisterAjxr6]

@@stevenlengyel9701 correct, but you're not everybody though are you

[@stevehoulihan726]

​@@stevenlengyel9701We see him apply 3 pieces of tape before the video fades to the whole lamp having been masked off.

[@stevejones7574]

I've done aircraft plexiglass, and ALWAYS sand in one direction, then change 90 degrees with next grit, rinse, repeat. This way, you can easily make sure you've removed all scatches from previous grit; otherwise, you may be trying to remove 600 scratches with 1000 grit, etc. Aircraft windshields are large, and of course, if you screw one up you're out of busine$$.

[@cvrpov]

Don't doubt it mate... although I think as long as you sand thoroughly and keep your process uniform... you will achieve the desired results. Obviously I've sped up the sanding process as it's boring to watch.

[@johnhopkins7614]

Whatever works for you, but I reckon your on your own.

[@clarity-in-motion9393]

Aircrafts do not have old Nissan Micras headlights, you are comparing two completely different processes for two completely different objects and saying one is better that the other. They are NOT comparative, full stop.

[@johnhopkins7614]

I would disagree. It’s the process of wet sanding that’s in question. I’ve worked in high-end bodyshop and I have never come across any piece of profession equipment or member of staff who sands in straight lines, regardless of the surface being prepared. Anyway, it obviously works for you so we will have to agree to disagree.

[@clarity-in-motion9393]

That’s rubbish, it’s the grade and quality of sanding that produces the end product. As I said you are comparing an aircraft to a Micra.

[@valeriewilliams5013]

I'm gonna have to try this and hope it works for me like it did for you in this video , I'm 67 years young and will try anything at least once to see if it works . Thanks for this video Sir ❤💯👵🏽🙏🏽

[@runningon-dinosaurs1569]

I often wondered if they were sealed from the factory. In recent years the likes of Maguire’s have included an aerosol sealer in their headlight restoration kits. Using 2K lacquer makes complete sense. I saw the top comment about micro cracks etc. At the end of the day this should last a couple of years. When it finally degrades machine sand it off with some 800 and start again. I am so glad I found your channel, a few years ago now. I have used your methods and saved hundreds of pounds improving paint jobs on my cars and repairing scratches etc. Thanks Mr CRV POV, your a legend!

[@cvrpov]

I have found 2k clear is the best and lasts the longest. Everyone has their preference though

[@idonotwantahandle2]

I've been doing that for 6 years. The UV filter coating appears to be industrial use only.

[@roymcgavigan5018]

you're a legend

[@davidk3729]

2004 Corsa. For MoT I buff the yellowed lenses with Brasso and Vim kitchen scouring powder. Finish with Turtle Wax headlamp uv protector. Been doing this twelve years.

[@evanpnz]

Cutting polish works too

[@cjfazio3012]

Good video how to keep clear longer! Reminds me of working with my grandad in the garage doing auto body. I sure miss our time together.

[@lalacrypto1]

I like the last bit. That makes it look absolutely brand new! Thanks for sharing!

[@harrypolychronopoulos478]

On my old Mondeo the head lights come completely off . Saves me time from the masking. With this tutorial I found out what I was doing wrong at the end stage all these years. Thanks Mate .

[@gregorypalamara6723]

I've done this for decades, doesn't take long, and lasts. ez money maker. Personally i go in one direction per grit, helps for precise details and removing each grits lines. Nice job man

[@nopes1776]

one thing they teach you in any automotive setting is you never go in strait lines unless you want giant gouges in your substrate to work with. good to know youve been doing it wrong for decades.

[@gregorypalamara6723]

@@nopes1776 look up wet v dry sanding :)

[@HxTurtle]

​@@nopes1776you again?! my friend owns a body shop and sometimes restores valuable old cars and he instructs all his trainees to go in one direction per grit only (you start off perpendicular to the wind flow, if applicable.) he has eagle eyes and knows every little detail there is to know on a microscopic level about paint. so, the comment you replied to did everything right!

[@HxTurtle]

​@@nopes1776this one's gone too? I'm not getting it why I can't comment anymore. -- you again?! my friend owns a body shop and sometimes restores valuable old cars and he instructs all his trainees to go in one direction per grit only (you start off perpendicular to the wind flow, if applicable.) he has eagle eyes and knows every little detail there is to know on a microscopic level about paint. so, the comment you replied to did everything right!

[@googleuser868]

I sure miss the old low maintenance glass headlights.

[@mattspontiacta]

Great job !!! I did the same on my 2004 Lexus GS 300 4 yrs ago. They still look as good as the first day I did them. My car is garage kept also. Only difference in my process is I didn’t wet sand or polish my clear coat after spraying. I sprayed a total of 3 even coats of 2k clear. Looked great so that’s why I didn’t wet sand and polish them. Nice video you did , to the point 👍

[@cvrpov]

Good stuff mate glad you liked it

[@Orwic1]

Thanks for this. I’ve looked at several videos on how to do this job, and this one is definitely the best!

[@zahimiibrahim3602]

Nice video, the exact same method I used on my 2008 VW Golf. I had used ordinary 1k paint previously but that only lasted a few months as the clearcoat itself started to yellow. So I repeated the process with 2k paint and 2 years on my headlights still look like new. Just like to add that you can be fairly agressive with 2000 or 3000 grit sandpaper sand down 100% all the orange peel before polishing and wax. The 2k coat is essentially the same as the clearcoat on your car paint so you can polish and wax it the exact same way as you would car body paint.

[@cvrpov]

Good stuff I have had similar results to what you describe

[@easygoing7011]

A proper job. And no unnecessary build up waffle. A true professional.

[@gerryhodgson4966]

your right, best set of intructions ever.

[@nopes1776]

congrats on your stupid comment, dont do this unless you want to buy new housings after 6 months.

[@Wargasm54]

The 3M kit works awesome for 25$ and 1/4 of the work. Comes with drill bit polishing pad and compound instead of spraying top coat. Has all the sandpaper and they stick onto the drill bit wheel too. Did my Benz and Volvo 4-5 years ago and still looks new. For the price and the amount of work required, it’s hard to beat .

[@Timjacks01]

Just found your channel. What I like is you don’t cut corners but it’s stuff we can all do properly 👍🏻

[@HomeWithDrew]

I thought it looked good with the Pro2kClear because that was great clarity. Will work well on scale model cars. But when you polished it, I could see the reflection on the surface, a white rectangle...that made me see the true benefit. Top work!

[@mrshrimpet2598]

Your tutorials are awesome. the no BS repairs are just great. You give me the confidence I needed and I feel like I can do it. My old car will thank you later I hope. Greetings from France

[@tz6414]

Great video , shows all the stages , good end result too. Thanks for posting.

[@philtucker1224]

Good tip about warming the can, especially during the winter, I usually stand it on the hall radiator for 15 minutes before shaking again and using. Lovely finish buddy 👍😁

[@cvrpov]

Nice one mate

[@philtucker1224]

@@whizzdom6923 That also works with hair spray when the wife is panicking because the can has run out 😁

[@That_2_guy2T]

Thank you for making this video! I am currently working on my federal signal AeroDynic fire truck light bar which the plastic has 40-50 years of weathering. So far I've wetsanded it and my next step it to clear coat it.

[@wilfredosoto2722]

This is the best damn video on how to renovate lenses ever! Thank you!

[@lukeplayer187]

Wow what a difference. I’ve been needing to do my headlights for ages and now I know how to achieve a lasting finish. Very informative video 👌🏼

[@panagiotisharos9625]

Congratulations.. regards from Athens Greece 😊

[@SouthernArcher1962]

This is absolutely the best video I've ever seen on this subject. Thank you Sir.

[@cvrpov]

Glad it was helpful!

[@philipatoz]

Super helpful showing each step. Because for one never having done this, putting sandpaper to headlight covers is a scary deal!

[@cvrpov]

Yes... but now you have seen the process

[@forddoctorforddoctor5918]

Absolutely spot on I did pretty much the same thing a few years ago only using Poundland lacquer 🤩 an it’s still looking pretty good today 😎😎😎😎

[@cvrpov]

Nice one mate

[@mrkoolio4475]

Pound land is the brand? Type of lacquer?

[@tonyromano6220]

That 2k must have a polyurethane type carrier and UV protection chemical. I don’t get why he used heat gun.

[@mreightytwenty8709]

Good video mate. Like you i have been doing Head Light repairs for years now. I use Meguiars Head Light Coating. After using many products over the years i find this is best. I do not use 2k products on head light... Have a great day...from Kiwi

[@cvrpov]

Greetings

[@advosetexas7988]

That’s what I use brother

[@rodjohnson2632]

I can attest to Meguiars working great. But I suspect if you've done all the prep work beforehand properly, the coating step is the easy part, and several different products will do the job well enough.

[@Eric_W]

I did this same thing to my Scion xB about 6 years ago and the headlights are still clear. I used Krylon clear coat with UV protection, UV is the key to keeping the headlights from going yellow sooner than later.

[@cvrpov]

Ok mate nice one

[@pauljohnson9326]

Looks absolutely amazing, mate . I'm not sure why I'm surprised as all the work you do looks great .

[@cvrpov]

Thanks for watching mate

[@mrcomenttoe2009]

Looks good 👍 hope everybody's doing well through the depression of the twenties the hyperinflation the pandemics and the wars

[@PedroPlckle]

and the Muslim invasion of our lands

[@timphilpott7119]

Brilliant videos my good man. Just discovered your channel. Love it

[@djparsons7363]

I'm 77, I think I'll just buy new headlights.

[@cvrpov]

Many headlights these days are £1k+. Also many headlights now require the bumper to be fully removed before changing them.

[@bigfist255]

Just buy a new car 😂

[@trapps75]

Not true I have 2004 Toyota Camry watched some KZbin mechanics take bumper off and some just popped the sides out slipped screwdriver in and took headlight out

[@jumpinjehoshaphat9075]

I have found that the inexpensive replacement headlights do not focus well and yellow quickly. I suggest keeping the OEM. I suggest 3M has a pretty good kit whether it's a hand sand or using a drill head and the they have a clear coat wipe in a packet within. The clear coat is the secret to a good job. You can do one light in around 30 minutes to 1 hour, what else are you going to do with an hour when you're 77? Tip: keep the drill head moving as I had a friend sit in one spot and melt the polycarbonate. That took a long time to correct! Then every week or 10 days you maintain and protect with a product called Plexus. You can get a few years out of your polish and protect job, even more if you have a garage to keep the vehicle in.

[@phoenixrising7623]

Excellent work absolutely amazing

[@banjobob9409]

Great video mate, this is the best tutorial I have seen. Very simple and straight forward. Keep up the good work 👍

[@rkcannon]

I used to paint cars and would use 400 before color coat. Literature said finer grade would probably cause paint to debond because it was too smooth. Never noticed any scratches. Paint filled them all in. Would sand with 600 before buffing. That's all the paper they sold back then. Just a thought.

[@kennethd7048]

What is the big deal about not using "glass" for headlights anymore. I mean, are we having a sand shortage? In the 80's a burned out Sylvania was 10 $ .. I was at the Volvo dealership and a new headlight was needed for a 2023 xc90.. 2000$..? R U F'ng crazy? Or you think I am. Someone needs to come up with glass aftermarket alternatives.. for the people.

[@mr.giggles4995]

There actually is a sand shortage, it's one of the most over-harvested resources there is. Beaches everywhere are being hauled away in dump trucks to be used in concrete.

[@silvereaglestacker3109]

They make everything cheap everything is plastic. Crap!!!¡!!

[@homeloveeverything2932]

Auto companies use plastic because it’s cheaper for them, lighter to transport as parts, and they can claim it helps make the car more fuel efficient

[@corinnelaking569]

Excellent tutorial, thank you! Cheers from Ontario Canada!

[@cvrpov]

Glad it was helpful!

[@RC-Closer1313]

Wow! That’s the right way to do it

[@soroyoayres5357]

Big up viewing from jamaica 🇯🇲

[@shaneholly1329]

Absolutely good tutorial! Thanks

[@brad22law]

I tell you what all you need is some bug repellent like Off. spray that on the headlight let it sit for like 20 seconds then wipe it off. Headlight will be good as new.

[@garethdavies7564]

i restore headlights for side job i do all the prep then i either use vapor kit or compond and polish then a 5 year ceramic coating ... i defo do want to try 2k clear coat at some point awesone video 🤙

[@JimmyLeeJr]

It's not all about the best job, take care of your health. 2k is dangerous.

[@cvrpov]

Yes mate go for it

[@cosmicquasar1747]

Spraymax makes a dedicated headlight coating called 2K 2in1 Headlight Clear

[@cvrpov]

I've used this product. If that's what you want to use, then by all means use it. The process I explained is exactly the same no matter what spray application you may decide to use! I've had great long lasting results with normal 2k clear. Cheers

[@HoomanR17]

Can the Spraymax be heat cured or only UV? Asking for a home DIY! Thanks.

[@mobileterminaluzer1858]

That's what I used 7yrs ago. Headlights STILL Crystal clear. Spray Max 2K clear coat headlight system 1K 368 4098 2K 368 4066 I baked in oven for for 40min at 175°. Did all the headlights & brake lights on my 3 vehicles

[@mobileterminaluzer1858]

​@HoomanR17 you can bake in kitchen oven 30min at 175°. Use a large cardboard. Don't want to get hot metal rack on headlights.

[@HoomanR17]

@@mobileterminaluzer1858 I don't see myself removing the headlights to place in the oven.. would hair dryer work, or would I need to get a cheap UV lamp?

[@AnnieRed66]

Thanks for that! I wasn't even looking for this type of video...your's just popped up, as a suggestion. I've got a PT Cruiser, which I bought from another content creator, on here...the headlights are definitely in need of this treatment.

[@Prefect99]

Did you read my mind? Was thinking of doing this today!

[@cvrpov]

Great.. hope it helps

[@mpbraj]

excellent finish...

[@biolabiola85]

Great job, very detailed explanation. Thank you.

[@andrewmcglashan5041]

This channel is great, helped my business offer more repairs and earn more income. Should do a workshop or course for these repairs👍👍

[@cvrpov]

I will be doing an online course hopefully this year. Just got to build it. Thanks for watching

[@gordowg1wg145]

Simple trick to make it a little faster and easier - open the bonnet before starting. It means less masking and one doesn't need to be quite so careful along the lights' edges for that part. Because the oxidation and dirt layer is quite soft and thick, I use scotch-brite to remove that top layer.

[@4thwalltvandfilm]

Can't wait to do my trusty Tahoe

[@gunterbecker8528]

U an absolute champion, great work mate !

[@cvrpov]

Much appreciated!

[@eurosonly]

It looks like someone's spilled soup all over those lenses lol.

[@garithsmith1798]

Fantastic Job

[@JamesDavis-qv2ws]

I think to use all of the spray can, sand , prep both lights. Great video

[@bradleybbb]

When you paint Don't get over zealous, too much paint = runs. Then ya have to start over.

[@JamesDavis-qv2ws]

@@bradleybbb True A few thin coats is better than one heavy coat. Even in winter.

[@cvrpov]

Yep 👍🏻 cheers

[@kentaylor6563]

I find it easier to remove the headlight. No masking or chance of overspray on the car. 45 years in the panel Industry here in Oz. Good job though

[@cvrpov]

Yep I probably would too. Although, bear in mind, alot of headlights don't come out anymore unless you take the bumper off which isn't really DIY level.

[@jtc1947]

@@cvrpov On some vehicles, there is NO telling just what all would have to be removed to get to those "PLASTIC" covers...AND THEN have to put it all back!

[@garrykennedy5653]

Nice improvement on what I have done in the past

[@esa7269]

Hey mate! Have to give you feedback, this was the most PERFECT vid: how to do. There was absolute 0% of extra bs, just straight from point a to point b💪💪💪 Cheers from Finland🇫🇮, now i know how to do mine peugeot 107 with confidence😄 PS:result was brilliant☀☀

[@cvrpov]

Awesome, glad you liked it, cheers

[@jeffryblackmon4846]

You, Sir, have impressive results I am now a subscriber. Thanks for a great concise video.

[@jockobacumbo623]

Looks great!

[@oby-1607]

No substitute for good work. Looks like new and really helps the car look better.

[@cvrpov]

Thanks 👍

[@gradyrogers6707]

i wish these videos would start off by saying, "Ok, here is what you are going to need"

[@cvrpov]

People would probably turn off 😅 its hard to keep their attention

[@davefox7516]

​@@cvrpov I agree with the original poster. If you had these items laid out on the table and told us what they were, I would have preferred it. Just say'in.

[@sirinitisimon1350]

Good job 👍

[@duca53]

Ottimo lavoro sia professionale che didattico. Angelo - Pisa - Italy

[@cvrpov]

Greetings to Italy

[@zzhughesd]

AMAZING end result !!!! Instead 2k clear there are a number of headlight lacquer products for poly carb. Some channels sware blind not go 2k but specific headlight clearcoat ( for poly carb plastics etc ) … I don’t know what to think. I go onto 1500 grit and then 3000 Trizact (3m) and use finish on headlight compound polish and a UV wipe. 3m. This seams fine for well over a year and they look very well maintained rather than brand new. Haven’t sprayed one yet but do intend too. I use g360 also on wool. Soft wool

[@cvrpov]

I like 2k coating them personally

[@pmlm1571]

Excellent work, thanks.

[@thegusk520]

My car always faced south parked on the street, which meant it was nearly always exposed to constant sunlight. I now park facing north, which really extends the life of any restoration.

[@1.thomasalmeida]

that looks fantastic! I love how you used the drill to give it that final polish!

[@cvrpov]

Trying to keep everything as diy as poss for my viewers

[@metalman4141]

Hair lacquer works just as good 👍

[@cvrpov]

Never tried that

[@MickH60]

If there's any left in the can, throw it in the fridge, you can use it for quite a while longer, I also rad that putting the can in the freezer can make it last months....

[@cvrpov]

Good tip mate I noticed that the clear in the can stayed usable for some time after

[@concreteboy7851]

Thanks man. This will help many people.

[@aoktechus]

Very thorough and detailed, I will try to apply it to my car

[@cvrpov]

Thanks for watching

[@nicholasrees4755]

Great job

[@protonmike]

What's in the water you spray on? Dishwasher liquid? Great result.

[@cvrpov]

I just use normal water but I like to add a bit of car soap to the bottle for wet sanding.

[@sf2372]

Mate that was a brilliant tutorial.... The Evo will be getting a fresh look very soon

[@Nite-owl]

Perfect timing, my daughter just MOT'd her 2004 Peugeot 206 and they advised the headlights needed swapping/repairing 😁

[@cvrpov]

Great, hope it's of use to you then

[@kelvinmurphy9704]

WOW! Awesome job!!!

[@cvrpov]

Thanks

[@mattwernecke2342]

Nice work!

[@Jbmc65]

So does he just more or less sand on the part where the light is? That’s kinda what it looked like. Excellent job, I have seen so many cars that need it bad, it’s obviously not hard.

[@richardhalliday6469]

Thanks for the video - great tutorial, very useful with your usual USP - No BS which is why we keep subbing

[@cvrpov]

Trying to keep maximum value in minimal time for my viewers. Appreciate every sub cheers

[@ericmol2614]

I did it about the same way. I don't think the lamp covers are corroded but they are eroded, wind erosion. In the factory they use clear semi gloss. Wind erosion hits it in the front but the back is protected from wind erosion. I used distilled water but to me it doesn't matter that much. I used only 880 grit with an up and down motion and a circular motion watering as you go and sponging it. You're basically sanding down a grit or sheen of paint / lacquer. This is very similar to eyes with cataracts. The lens is scratched/ eroded. Wind erosion can do this to eyes as well. After sanding I forget what I used next, I think baby oil. Then I sprayed it with clear semi gloss that I got at Walmart cheap, but I only used one coat. My car is so old and screwed up that I didn't care to mask it out with paper and tape. And that's it. I got the fine grit sand paper at a body shop. Don't expect to find such fine grit sandpaper at a hardware store because it wouldn't be a frequently sold product there or a house paint store. Body shop place usually have that grit.

[@cvrpov]

Ok good luck

[@RT65CB-SWL]

Plus one for the ‘G3’ paste. It’s better than ‘T-Cut’ 👍

[@cvrpov]

100%

[@synystergates07]

An even faster and better way is bug spray and a paper towel.spray on, wipe off. That's it.

[@brentmason6782]

Nice work! Great video!

[@cvrpov]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@ruthmoon9235]

Awesome job

[@tonyromano6220]

Wow that 2k stuff must be incredible!

[@Mansionlife-m7l]

I bought new ones cheap from Rock Auto for my gen 10 f150, years later they look great.

[@jeffharper862]

Deep Woods Off bug spray, done!

[@ben1canobe150]

Amazing Job ! Thanks for sharing

[@cvrpov]

Thanks for watching!

[@mansize6622]

Looks great labor intensive.

[@cvrpov]

Cheers. Not really. Didn't take long or much effort

[@mansize6622]

@@cvrpov How much $$ you charge ?

[@scooby2142]

Great work man - top notch.

[@cvrpov]

Glad you liked it!

[@Jeppedy]

Say, um... Nothing on their website suggests it blocks UV at all. Isn't that what caused the damage initially, but now, we've lost the original UV protection from the factory, no?

[@Vance-ik9ck]

I use Maguires mirror glaze and then put a coat of wax on top of it and it last a year and a half so far! Less than 10 minutes a lens.

[@sw-wk3qm]

I did my truck lights using this method and before two years, the clear coat was yellow and lights were worse than before.

[@cvrpov]

Not had this experience personally

[@kj9219]

Lets say that plastic headlights are bogus. It take decades before a glass headlight pits. Both the clear, and the plastic surface of the light are soft.

[@cvrpov]

95% + are plastic now

[@kj9219]

@@cvrpov sure, cheaper. Thanks

[@jordans4827]

This isn't really a DIY for normal blokes. This is a professional auto mechanic going over how to clean this light, somewhat expensively. Yellow or duct protective tape, major layer of brown construction sheet paper, numerous versions of sand paper, protective gloves, 20 dollar bottle of confusing one time use 2K grenade spray, gas masks for harmful fumes, a compound paste, a buffer drill, and polish sponge/rag. Great results, but not really a DIY video, unless you are already a professional mechanic, or a person with a large fully equipped garage and advanced knowledge of auto care and maintenance.

[@user-iv5gy3rc2b]

Because it takes a few minutes of gathering the materials it's not DIY? What's confusing about masking tape, polish, and a few sheets of sandpaper? You must be pulling somebody's leg.

[@smokinwithskruggs]

I'd like to see you put duck tape on that cars finish and then take it off. Nice job!

[@cvrpov]

Layer some masking tape down 1st then duct over it. Done it many times

[@smokinwithskruggs]

@@cvrpov why?

[@volt8684]

Love ur channel thanks for teaching us

[@cvrpov]

Thanks for being here

[@iyogi2]

Excellent, thank you.

[@cvrpov]

Glad it was helpful!