How To Wet Sand Headlights! - Chemical Guys

Oxidized headlights can ruin the entire look and value of your vehicle. Whether it be a brand new car or an older vehicle, headlights can cost thousands of dollars to replace! Not many people understand that it can also be a safety hazard when driving in the nighttime and harsh weather conditions. It obstructs your lights from beaming through the plastic limiting how far, wide and bright you will be able to see the coming road when it matters most.
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[@rapjoy4585]

Detailing seemed so complicated and scary but with just a few videos from you guys it’s so easy and fast to learn

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!!

[@rhoward134]

Well well well. Of all these videos I’ve watched. This is the first one to use clay bar. Now I have several methods to try on other headlights. Thnx CG

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad it was helpful!

[@laurenalderson8724]

I just have to say you did a great job on this video. A lot of people have no idea how important each step is and why. Just had to say you did a great job at explaining everything. Keep it up! 🤘🏻

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@natemartinez8444]

You guys really kill it man!! Watching these videos everyday inspire me to start my own small detailing business! And your products rock, keep up the awesome work!!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi Nate! Thanks so much for being part of the Chemical Guys family!!

[@rhoward134]

Facts

[@-curedetailing2162]

Wow you've completely restored the headlights. It's a very attractive product. I should practice with the video's products as a person who is doing the details.

[@backpacker3421]

I can vouch for it as well. Even without wet sanding, it will improve hazy headlights quite a bit. With wet sanding, it will make them look factory fresh brand new.

[@jonnygti]

hb8dinwa for how long though? I’m pretty sure this method would cause the lights to yellow up again after a few months in hot sun, or in the cold winter days. It’s not a permanent fix

[@AdventuresGaming]

@@jonnygti thats why it's important to buy a good sealant or even a ceramic coating for the headlights after doing all the hard work to make em look crystal clear again and protect em very well

[@jonnygti]

AdventuresGaming oh I didn’t know you could use something like ceramic coating on it. But you’ve got to add up all the costs of these products, and some people don’t have a machine polisher for the best results too. I think I’d rather just get new headlights, far less effort doing that! And there new and won’t fade for years

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching and thanks for the amazing feedback!

[@scottwiltse4081]

Wow !! What a difference. Great looks like I'm headed to the chemical guys store. My sister's 2009 Subaru Outback headlights are real foggy . Well not after I'm done ! Thanks for all the information.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching and thanks for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@ccrane4916]

this is a great video hope every mechanic/ worker would be like this and do everything right and even the small steps

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@usi9fl]

I watched this video when it was first posted. I visited Chemical Guys Detail shop in Fort Myers and purchased the items used. Perfect, thank you for the advise and process. Our headlights look like new!!!

[@ChemicalGuys]

We're so glad you're enjoying your detailing products!

[@markflores3885]

Love this product! Done with many headlights restore. Thx Henry!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Mark, thanks for the amazing feedback!

[@Santino11238]

Using the V series polishers in stages seemed to yield better results than just the headlight restorer.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey Sonny! Absolutely, multi-step corrections will achieve the best result however if you are short on time or the vehicle doesn't require multiple steps of polishing, reach for Headlight Restorer.

[@MegaFranceschini]

Joey, what a huge difference my friend WOW.👍👍👍👍👍Thanks for that video. Take care. GOD BLESS.👍

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@AdventuresGaming]

That's Henry

[@juniordrift8686]

Amazing ever since I found out about y'all products I've hooked ever since. Starting my own services soon

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@rendellbaldwin8946]

Great video sir. Easier than other videos I've seen 👍

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@djkid2b]

Definitely recommend this products to all my friends 👍🏼😎

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@JPistols]

Was up y’all. Love the product and specially the tutorial vids. 😂 keep up the awesome work... shout out to all the fellows that work at the Gardena Location. Always get answers when they arise.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for the amazing feedback and happy detailing!

[@DaveInBridport]

I've gone down to a 7000 paper. The yellowing has gone but it's still hazy.

[@IknowImNotCrazyYoumightbe]

I would use a separate sealant with a UV protectant...

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! If you would like to you may apply a ceramic or sealant after to enhance the protection. Thanks for watching and happy detailing!

[@snappishmonkey5630]

When I do mine I have a clear coat for plastics with uv protection, then I top it off with a wax

[@corywhitten9596]

Its amazing how he uses the clay bar with so little lube. Typically waaaay more lube is needed.

[@natethegreat3194]

I bought an ats v recently and the tops of the headlights seem to have micro fractures in them, I’m going to try wet sanding with this process first but I’m guessing im going to have to replace them

[@alternateimpact81]

I use the 3 finger Shocker method. 2 for the rough, one for the buff.

[@ChemicalGuys]

😆 Happy detailing!!

[@shiloh5199]

Great video, do you guys sell a kit with all those materials and sand paper with sanding block?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Check out these headlight restoration kits. www.chemicalguys.com/collections/headlight-restoration

[@FCT8306onTwoWheels]

2:38 the headlights on my Audi were so cloudy the brightness on the headlights was like a birthday candle.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@dailydriventuners9122]

So is it better to use the v compounds with the jet seal or is this method better? I don’t have any yellowing on my Stinger but the clear coat on the headlights are spider webbing pretty bad. Just trying to figure out what’s a better method to use with out going to a shop and having to reclear it

[@badbrad5424]

After I clay bared my headlights I used the orange pad and your guys scratch and swirl remover headlight brand new. 🤘✌️

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!!

[@ripjeffhanneman5838]

I call it a Tucks medicated pad. Awesome! Awesome! Thanks man!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching and happy detailing!

[@robhtp3817]

Thanks Bro. This is cool. I’ve got a 94” Dodge Pickup beater aka “Rusty” and I’ve gotta get the headlights right again. Do you have any videos in DIY taking off heavy rust from paint without tools? My buddy said wet sanding as well?

[@demeteriuswilson3604]

Really appreciate the video! Great demonstration!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!!

[@DetailingSolutions]

Great content!! I put out a similar video not long ago , we can only hope to grow our channel to even half the size of you guys!! Continue to inspire guys!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@DetailingSolutions]

@@ChemicalGuys Thank guys you as well!!!

[@cod3man529]

Great video thank you. I know the length of how long it will last depends on various scenarios, but after they start fading again, do I complete the whole process such as sanding/polishing again, or just polish/seal? Thank you in advance. What additional sealant can I use from you guys? Ps: you look like my nephew.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! If they do start t fail again, simply use Head Light Restorer by hand. Also, we recommend applying Jetseal, it creates a strong shield against water spots, contamination, road grime, and UV sunlight. Innovative UV protection technology helps reject harmful solar rays and protect headlights against fading and discoloration. Thanks for watching and thanks for the amazing feedback! www.chemicalguys.com/jetseal-durable-sealant-and-paint-protectant/jetseal-sealant.html

[@vishalharricharan4305]

Yes loving chemicals guys products since i start using it btw first

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@lincolntiffin]

I only use your products on my truck, but I wish y’all would open a shop here in Gainesville Florida you would do well here. College town.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for your feedback!

[@philiportiz6713]

I am a beginner at detailing i have a 21 year old toyota 4 runner and i would like to know how do you polish the rubber trim that goes around the bumper and decide panel doors

[@nismomike2359]

Does the sealant wash off with every car wash? Also how often do you recommend applying it for constant protection.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Sealant will withstand washes for months.

[@Patchkaa33]

Need to get these products , I live in New Zealand hopefully they sell them at my auto store

[@ChemicalGuys]

Greetings from Southern California!!

[@Skydeeppearls]

Everuthing great thank you, but still after paste still it is a litle bit fogy, after a wash maybe it goes away?! Or need a better sandpaper and water job to be more perfect? Thank you

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Yes, it may be necessary to wet sand the headlight to restore perfect clarity.

[@anthonymorales1178]

I did my headlights but using v34 and v36 came out nice but still had some haze seems like it's from the inside 😕

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for tuning in!

[@jamesgrimm611]

Great job of restoring.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for the amazing feedback!

[@dannyoliveira4787]

Love the content. Great channel ,Awesome job.👍🏻💯👍🏻💯

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@rschaefe1]

Good video and easy to follow. I’m curious... why don’t you lift the hood up before doing the headlights??

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! You can also lift the hood if you do not mask off with tape. Thanks for watching and happy detailing!

[@christalthecreator]

Amazing! Great job!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@THEWARBEARDJOHN]

Which sealant would you suggest would work best for the dealing those headlights? Would VPR be a viable option ?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! We recommend Jetseal, it creates a strong shield against water spots, contamination, road grime, and UV sunlight. Innovative UV protection technology helps reject harmful solar rays and protect headlights against fading and discoloration. www.chemicalguys.com/jetseal-durable-sealant-and-paint-protectant/jetseal-sealant.html

[@beckyandchad]

Can you do a video on polishing chrome cladded wheels? They are becoming more and more common.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Great suggestion!!

[@ever6]

Wow great video I'll have to get that Toro or something similar to it half price.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@themobilebinbath1461]

great video, thanks. headrrrrrlight ;)

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@mxgeru343]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@louferraro6301]

Brother, I just wet sanded my headlight which had some scratches on it from a car cover. I used your Chemical Guys lube, soapy water and 1500 & 3000 grit. The scratches are gone but there's a 😭 "haze" left on the portion I sanded. I don't have any compound or polish (I thought I did 😭) am I screwed now. What should I do in the meantime? Thank you all @ChemicalGuys- big fan 👍

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi Lou! The next step would be to polish the surface to refine and remove the sanding marks. Use an Orange Hex-Logic Pad with Headlight Restorer Polish.

[@rubytusda]

Great demo! What is the polisher speed setting? I’m using torq X.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey Ruben! Spread the product out on the lowest speed setting then use the highest speed setting to diminish the product.

[@tflo25]

Can you do this with a dual action polisher with 5" backplate?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Yes, that is correct.

[@Itz_JayM]

I do all these steps but on badly yellowed headlights I do a dry sand with a course grit sanding pad first and slowly work my way up.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for sharing your amazing feedback!

[@chansongassett3717]

Can you hit the headlights with a orange cutting pad along with headlight restorer?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Absolutely!

[@brunningstave]

How do I know if I need to wet sand a headlight or if the one step process in your other video will be sufficient?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Headlight Restorer is great for removing light to moderate oxidation and haze. For heavily oxidized/dull headlights using the appropriate sanding sheets to refine the finish.

[@tucksmith8300]

Looks good

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!!

[@dannyoliveira4787]

Love your videos brother👍🏻

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you like them!

[@albertnavas3790]

I'm gonna be buy that stuff from Yu guys my headlights are just like that with my Honda and not just one both of them but that stuff is so Good 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for the amazing feedback!

[@exwifeschewtoy5516]

not done without a quality uv resistant clear coat and then monthly wax

[@ChemicalGuys]

Great tip!

[@SegerSyanide]

I was told that when wet sanding, you're supposed to soak the sand paper in water for an hour or so. Is that not the case here?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi there! We have found that it is not necessary to let the sanding sheets soak for that long, only a few moments.

[@karkule5919]

Nonsense, just have a spray bottle with water and keep spraying as you go to keep it wet. And it's good to have a bucket of water also to rinse and keep the sand paper clean of sludge during the job.

[@warzero]

what's the logic of using a clay bar when you will still sand it though?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! The clay bar will ensure that the surface is totally clean and prevent embedded grime from micro scratching the lens when sanding.

[@jillou4981]

Thanks Henry. Looks much better. What happens when u use a DA?

[@AdventuresGaming]

It takes longer but same results

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! You may also use a DA polisher if you would like. Thanks for watching!

[@jillou4981]

@@ChemicalGuys thanks alot

[@beckross5186]

What setting did you use on the rotary machine?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi there! Use the lowest speed setting to spread the product then the third or fourth speed setting to properly diminish the product and refine the finish.

[@dgoode2846]

Thank you, nice job.👍

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching and thanks for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@srt8killz]

Can you use 2000 grit and 3000 grit?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi Noe! Absolutely, it is perfectly fine to lightly wet sand the headlight before using Headlight Restorer.

[@raheelahmad5089]

Can you use a 3000 grit sand paper if you can’t find a 3500?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Absolutely!

[@siddjay2855]

AMAZING!! Yall are the truth!!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@omhounde2289]

Do y’all sell the sandpaper separate from the kit?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hello! Please check out this link to the product page. www.chemicalguys.com/latex-self-adhesive-sanding-sheets/sanding-sheets.html

[@patrickbennett4554]

Nice video!

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ever2gut1]

What do you think of clay mitts? I've got one I've used in the past.

[@backpacker3421]

I really prefer the bars. When they get contaminated on the surface, you just twist and knead them like silly putty and they can be used again and again and again. And since you only use a small hunk at a time, one bar will last you a LONG time. A clay mitt is good for a few uses, then you have to toss it. Much more expensive over time.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Clay mitts work amazing!

[@ogbladee]

Any tips for removing burnt plastic from the headlights? I accidentally applied to much heat when using my rotary polisher on my headlight and it burnt the plastic.. but I feel like it can be fixed. Thanks!

[@Parker-di7ef]

Did you try sanding it? You might need to go down in grit if there’s a lot of excess plastic. Then go up the ladder until you reach 2500 grit. It might take some time but it’s better than buying new headlights.

[@ogbladee]

Parker B thank you! I read this earlier and people were saying to go down and then up, but I’m glad to have someone actually recommend doing that. I’ll give it a shot, thank you!

[@ogbladee]

Parker B the plastic that is burnt was originally oxidized so it feels slightly more raised than the plastic that’s clear. I’m sure I have room to work with for sanding.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Unfortunately, if you burn your headlight it has permanently been damaged and cannot be brought back. We recommend purchasing a new set of headlights. Thanks for watching and happy detailing!

[@ogbladee]

Chemical Guys thank you for the info! I appreciate all the videos you guys make it really helps!!

[@EpicStory17]

Herrlight… 😂 Good vid tho

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching!

[@omendoza1993]

Do you guys recommend using one sheet of sand paper per headlight or can you use one sheet on both headlights

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey there! The sanding sheets can be used on several headlights as long as they are properly stored and undamaged. Have two specified or a dual-sided sanding block is recommended.

[@jeffreyg5718]

Definitely pancake. My grandfather, who grew up in northern Nevada, called them flapjacks. Additionally, a lot of old school Nevada restaurants refer to them as flapjacks.

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching!

[@levishepard3696]

He says headlight so cool. Headliddddght.

[@ChemicalGuys]

😄

[@tomsgrilling5341]

Only products I’m using

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for being part of the Chemical Guys family!

[@tomsgrilling5341]

@@ChemicalGuys just cleaned my truck today and all I used was yalls brand great stuff enjoy the videos and learning stuff

[@abdulblessinger6659]

That is Boss, thanks

[@ChemicalGuys]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@aarons7267]

Since its has a sealant in it, how long does it last?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! I restored my headlights 4 months ago and they still look amazing. -CG Antonio

[@jrabella8485]

Can i use DA machine??

[@ChemicalGuys]

Absolutely! Use Headlight Restorer with an Orange Hex-Logic Pad and your DA polisher.

[@jamirrequena8174]

Hey guys, would you guys be Interested in making a KZbin video of restoring headlights by hand?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Headlight Restorer Polish can be used by hand as well to restore clarity.

[@AdventuresGaming]

I call clay Silly Putty, because its all fun and games until you drop the clay bar 😕

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for sharing!

[@EnemyAC130_Above]

What do you think of starting on a grit as low as 800?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi there! Using 800 grit sand paper may be a little too aggressive for headlight restoration.

[@tayvonrose2528]

Lol I had to go down to 120

[@bbyflip1]

where do u get the sandpaper Home Depot ??

[@masterbeta343]

So headlight restore is basically just V4?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Headlight plastic is sensitive to harsh UV rays, which fade the plastic, turning it hazy and opaque. Simply rub the refined cream formula into the faded headlight plastic with a microfiber towel until it turns clear. Micro-abrasives blended into the formula peel back layers of dead plastic that block light and dull the clarity of the headlamp, revealing crystal-clear plastic underneath. www.chemicalguys.com/headlight-lens-restorer-and-protectant/headlight-lens-restorer-protectant.html

[@KristenFordmusic]

can we talk about how handsome this bro is?!

[@ChemicalGuys]

😄😄

[@rachelhoyle5728]

He is handsome! 😊

[@ns_raptorlife]

Nice like it good job

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for the amazing feedback!

[@rollinoutsidetv2892]

And Another one 🙌🏾🙌🏾💪🏾😍✨

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching!

[@tvalentino5156]

What pad did you use?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Check out the Orange Hex-Logic Pad.

[@petermuniz9296]

I got it on cyber Monday deal

[@ChemicalGuys]

Happy detailing!

[@_compa_santi_]

Could you use a microfiber applicator instead of using a machine?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Absolutely!

[@azizlenox]

How an I do it by hand?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! We recommend using the Hex Logic Orange Cutting Hand Pad. Chemical Guys Orange Hex-Logic Hand Pad is perfect for polishing and removing swirls, scratches, oxidation, and paint transfer from wherever a machine polisher just won’t fit. www.chemicalguys.com/hex-logic-orange-cutting-hand-pad/BUFX_201.html

[@bfilz]

Can you use a DA?

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Yes, you may use a DA to polish out the headlights.

[@jonstebbins5115]

Where do you find your sticky sandpaper and block? Thanks

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Check out the link down below. www.chemicalguys.com/easy-grip-hyper-flex-water-spot-sanding-block/FLEX_PAD_PINK.html www.chemicalguys.com/latex-self-adhesive-sanding-sheets/sanding-sheets.html

[@lakemalawifishkeeping2599]

Y clay an then wet sand just seems like twice the work

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey Jose! All of these steps are necessary to achieve the best results.

[@77autodetailing]

How many inches does this plate and pad have? 😃

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hi there! A 3 inch backing plate and pad will be most ideal for headlight polishing. Check out this link. www.chemicalguys.com/torq-r5-dual-action-backing-plate-with-hyper-flex-technology/r5-hyperflex-backing+-plate.html

[@77autodetailing]

@@ChemicalGuys Great! I bought already on Chemical Guys's Web Site! Thank you! :-)

[@markdicrosta8478]

Awesome

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks for watching!

[@robertmcguinness7949]

Brilliant, a perfect example of KISS (Keep it simple stupid)

[@ChemicalGuys]

Thanks so much for tuning in!!

[@DeBenedettiD]

Clay bar so you don’t scratch the headlight??? You’re scratching it with sandpaper

[@rachelhoyle5728]

Clay bar so you don’t use the sandpaper to sand in and damage the headlights with microscopic pieces of dirt and grime.

[@Sir-Kay]

2500 grit? I thought he would start from 600 or so. 🤔

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey! Using the combination of 2000-2500 and 3000-3500 grit sand paper is all that is needed.

[@gvi341984]

This car needs a deep polishing video

[@ChemicalGuys]

Should we make a 3rd video on how to polish?

[@annellapodaca4280]

I miss Nick. 😕

[@ChemicalGuys]

Hey there! Stay tuned, we have more content on the way. - CG Nick

[@Mariah5679]

😮

[@ChemicalGuys]

😃