Restore Neglected Headlights to BETTER THAN NEW Condition

Hazed and sun-faded headlights are not only unsafe, but they look atrocious. They can make any car that is in good condition, look neglected and abused.
The reason why headlights with polycarbonate (a.k.a. plastic) lenses begin to look cloudy and faded is because the UV resistant coating on the lens has seen some wear and tear due to the constant abuse from road grime, bugs, rocks, dirt, snow, salt, etc. When the UV resistant coating begins to pit, it will expose the bare polycarbonate lens. When that is done, the constant UV rays from the sun will oxidize the composition of the plastic and create the faded, cloudy lens. To repair this problem, sanding the entire headlight is a must so that the failing UV coating that was applied when the headlight was made, is completely removed. You will then need to remove the scratches and the haze from the lens by polishing and restoring it to new condition.
At that point, the headlight will look crystal clear and will be able to allow light through the lens instead of being distorted from the haze. If it is left like that, it will begin to haze again in a matter of no time, especially if you live in an environment where your car will see alot of sun. The best way to prevent the oxidation is from a Paint Protection Film. Since it is a UV resistant film, the sun’s UV rays won’t be able to deteriorate the lens. Not only does the PPF absorb small impacts like rock chips and debris (so the UV coating will not be compromised), but it will be able to be replaced quite easily. I also find that removing the headlights / masking the entire car, is a pain in the butt so that we can paint a layer of clear coat over the lens, which will eventually fade due to the same pitting problem we have with the headlight being at the front of the car.
The exact 3M film I showed in this video can be purchased here (goo.gl/FTzN5P). It is also available in many different sizes. You can purchase the roll to do a custom piece like your headlight, and you can also purchase pre-cut kits for your car by following this link here (goo.gl/psw29p).
If you’re interested to see what other products I used in this video, all of the links can be found below (in order of appearance):
3M Automotive Masking Tape ▶︎ goo.gl/UriCBW
Foam Sanding Block ▶︎ goo.gl/sQmUtS
1500 Grit Trizact Sand Paper ▶︎ goo.gl/mv9sFL
3M Headlight Restoration Kit ▶︎ amzn.to/2LGrXvT
Cordless Drill ▶︎ goo.gl/uv8Wta
Corded Drill ▶︎ goo.gl/e32DuQ
3000 Grit Sanding Discs ▶︎ goo.gl/7BWLBt
Meguiars M105 Cutting Compound ▶︎ goo.gl/U2JwQH
3 inch Cutting Pad (3-Pack) ▶︎ goo.gl/mk7Rse
Meguiars M205 Polishing Compound ▶︎ goo.gl/mpKygy
3 inch Polishing Pad (3-Pack) ▶︎ goo.gl/tUv6YQ
Premium Microfiber Towels ▶︎ goo.gl/YntJM8
Isopropyl Alcohol ▶︎ amzn.to/3OHzMSt
Original Scent Dish Soap ▶︎ goo.gl/wr7R2D
3M Scotchgard Paint Protection Film ▶︎ goo.gl/xLPTK3
Olfa 9mm Utility Blade ▶︎ goo.gl/wQTuzu
Camera Used for this Video ▶︎ goo.gl/C1mN2C
Camera Used for Alternate Shots ▶︎ goo.gl/TN4ZgG
If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email at [e-mail]. Thanks for watching!! :)
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Please give it a like 👍 and follow 👣
KZbin Channel ▶︎ / milanmastracci
Instagram ▶︎ / milmast
Facebook Page ▶︎ / milanmastracci
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Video Chapters
Introduction: (0:00)
Results 1.5 Years Later: (1:12)
Overview: (1:47)
Restoring the Headlight To New Condition: (2:28)
Post Headlight Restoration: (5:33)
Protecting the PERFECT Headlight to Better than New Condition: (7:00)
PPF Application: (8:05)
Final Remarks: (9:44)

[@The1Music2MyEars]

I've seen a lot of headlight cleaning videos, and that is an under-statement. You are the only KZbinr who zooms really into the headlight to show the microscratches from the sandpaper. You wouldn't believe how many people simply don't show this state up close.

[@royalway12]

This is the best headlight restoration video I've ever seen. You should pursue a career as a pitchman young man. You presented it in very clear, concise, and professional manner. Good day to ya.

[@michaelroberts2053]

I'm a 72 years old man who wants to start headlights restoration and have been following detailing on KZbin but I've learnt so much from your video that gives me confidence to go the sanding route. Thank you so much for the step by step demo...you're the best

[@milanmastracci]

You can do it! Good luck Michael

[@TheRealVivia]

Wow this is the first video that DIDN’T CUT TO ULTRA CLEAR HEADLIGHTS instead of SHOWING THAT YOU BUFFED THEM TO BE THAT CLEAR. Now I actually feel confident to do this. THANK YOUUUU

[@gerardpeters4878]

Finally someone that made a proper video....no one hand shaking camera and well spoken. I'll be trying this method out on my car lights. Thank you and keep up the great work.

[@JM-qh5zi]

Did it work?

[@josephbass305]

Car care

[@HellGatefr2]

He makes money for it.

[@mohdshuibabubakar470]

@@josephbass305 . I ..ZSz

[@kellybell1874]

Gerard Peters Yb

[@salmanjaved537]

By far the best restoration job I've seen so far. And I'm a detailing buff. This guy knows what he knows. Clearly knows what he is doing Cheers

[@stfuplsok]

I know he knows.

[@Hoghaw]

Regardless of the Naysayers who’ve posted negative comments, out of the many KZbin videos on this particular subject, this guy’s video is head and shoulders above the rest. As someone has already mentioned, he takes the time to carefully explain what he’s about to do, as well as why he’s doing each step, AND clearly describes and identifies each product he’s using. The headlight lenses on my 2007 GMC Sierra VortecMax are embarrassingly yellowed! I mainly use it as my hunting truck, and hadn’t really noticed how dim the headlights actually were, until a friend asked me if I knew one of my headlights wasn’t working. I changed the bulb, thinking that my headlights were going to be bright again. I know, that wasn’t very bright on my part. (Pun intended!) I plan to purchase all the materials he suggested, and try to restore the lenses on my pickup. The batteries on my DeWalt drill died years ago, but I imagine my Bosch drill will do an adequate job. (Just a joke here folks. I doubt DeWalt has given him a Lifetime Supply of DeWalt products for using their drill in his video. If I’m wrong, I’ll be happy to announce to one and all that my Bosch cordless drill does an even more amazing job than the DeWalt if they’ll send me a lifetime supply of Bosch products!☺️) If anyone reading my comments has used this guy’s headlight lens restoration methods, I’d appreciate your comments as to how well they worked for you.

[@marvincrawford773]

You re an EXCELLENT presenter and the clarity of content it AMAZING! Thank you I have learned MUCH!

[@trevorperes7455]

Gotta say I followed your system step by step and the headlight covers of my Audi A4 V6 3.0L Cabriolet look brand new. Everyone, who has seen the restored headlights, is blown away on how good they came out. Thank you and good job!!!

[@nate678]

Wow man this is one of the best edited videos I've seen in awhile. I appreciate how you sped up video but still showed the technique. Also I never thought of using two different formulas one to apply and move around in the other to clean it and squeegee it out. Other KZbinrs can learn from your editing style. Subscribed!

[@web5271]

I've watched at least 20 videos on this subject. I've talked to detailers who say use WD-40 or toothpaste. I've screwed around with this issue for years. This guy's video beats all. I salute you, sir.

[@marcsparc7481]

Well filmed and presented video Milan.......your clear description is far better than any other tutorial i have seen trying to explain the same process....keep up the good work fella

[@VictorGonzalez-to2jw]

I have seen this same process done so many times and each time I am amazed on how big of a change it gives to the look of the vehicle. I love series like this were you can see a neglected vehicle get restored, and the step by step process they take to get there. Reminds me of the Golf all over again.

[@eponymous7910]

So many jettas and mk5 golfs on the road with horrible, scummy headlights

[@poponachtschnecke]

This video is awesome. I appreciate the video quality, time management, and the speed/quality/volume/pronunciation of your voice.

[@Kynetguy]

Very well made video. Its refreshing to see someone make a video that doesn't look like they are filming it with a potato while having a seizure. I also appreciate the fact that you are well spoken and professional in your style as well. Nice work.

[@jeanettewilliams606]

Sade song

[@omnipitous4648]

I've seen a bunch of these videos and they all use different methods. This by far the best method which yielded the best result. Thanks.

[@harriglnola7655]

Your video is OUTSTANDING!!! You did a masterful job of explaining EVERYTHING! Also, your diction and intelligibility was perfectly clear. VERY well done! I have just subscribed.

[@EmsLdn]

I don't even own a gd car but I still watched this whole video until the end... what has my life become?! Thank you for the video - excellent explanation

[@BREGGREN]

Wow, The Best Headlight Video Restore I've Ever Seen in a Video! This Man is an Incredibly Good Talker! Distinct Enunciation, Unbelievably Angelic! WOW!

[@manithor7572]

Great job. I haven't seen any other person doing it this professional on KZbin. Thank you.

[@kathyrose9515]

I am new to your channel and so happy to find such clear easy to follow instructions. You even covered the problems that could arise, saving even more time. Thanks! Keep up the good work!

[@stellamariesanchez3392]

Wow! This is amazing!! I never thought you could actually make headlights good as new

[@ibanezrg320fm]

I watched a few of the top videos for this and I like your video the most. You hit everything on the head along with cautions I would've wondered while I followed along. Really great video man, thanks.

[@dwilson2126]

Great work! The best video I have seen on headlight restoration. My first time here and this convinced me to subscribe. 👍🏾

[@MorfiusRacing]

Thanks for the tips fella, one of those OCD hangups I have with my car.

[@lemuelleequinones8575]

Awesome video, I really like that you even included the links to the materials used in the process.

[@RoyCampanella44]

Dang, man. That's one of the best--professional, polished (ha!), and technically crisp--how-to educational videos I've ever seen. Thanks you.

[@troybynoe7247]

Best restoration vid I’ve seen. Explanation was precise and leaving no possible question unanswered. Fantastic 👍🏽

[@philem68]

Nice job. Ex detailer here. I could do this full time in Australia with our Sun.

[@logmeindangit]

Your sun is my sun.

[@xcrazy4xxxx]

I really like the video...the best one yet that I have seen and I have seen alot looking for the best way to restore my headlights. A BIG THANK YOU!...

[@randytorres2420]

I saw A LOT of Headlight cleaning Video's. This is the BEST one to follow. GREAT EASY INSTRUCTIONS.

[@playprostudios712]

Thanks for putting so much work into your video production. Makes all this easily followable. Great work, I just subbed!

[@ashunderwood88]

Posting all the materials makes you better than SOOO many tubers. Subbed.

[@larrythelobster4880]

Ash Underwood let me clap them cheeks mama

[@kellybell1874]

Ash Underwood [

[@timothymatthewtoppings0323]

Hey

[@catslivesmatter1268]

@@larrythelobster4880 😅😂🤣😹👀

[@catslivesmatter1268]

Scotty kilmore does a pretty good video but it's better than average because you can actually get personal thru the Maven app and get straight answers to your questions from Scotty Kilmore , and it's nice to get personal directs from the source ! This is a good video 👌 but I simply picked up a renewal headlight kit from mcquire apply and Bam it's done no work involved and just as inexpensive as the ones that don't work

[@anthonymiles2302]

This is a great video. Very easy to follow and seems all the steps are clear and in order. Thank you!

[@pmdoit]

Thank you this is the most complete, simple guide for repairing fogged headlights that I have ever seen.

[@a.cartagena9468]

... After watching endless hrs of videos on this topic, I am glad to have seen yours. It actually gave me the answer that I was looking for, for my '08-CX9.

[@HousePlant_Ambient]

Yeah, very impressed. Thank you for the step by step and clear direction.

[@usernick8928]

I hesitated to click, thought for sure it was going to be bug repellent or WD40 or some crap... But, you actually show the only proper way to do it! Great video man!

[@goshen574]

Thanks for this info. I’m going to try this out on my aunts car and see if it works as soon as I’m done with her tune up and a sea foam treatment. Can’t wait to see the difference. These vids always make me wanna go out to the garage and start tibkering

[@Mad0768]

Brilliant video, quick stages and fast before and after really enjoyed it and confident that I can do this successfully myself thank you.

[@DarronSmithBahamianMillionaire]

This is the best method that I have ever seen!! Awesome job Bro!

[@rakhit]

Just used the Polish cream on my Subaru Impreza and it wasn't enough. This guy just gave me hope to fully restore my headlights. Thumbs up.

[@charleycharles2426]

Your process makes better sense than others I've seen. I think I'll give it a try.

[@rabidgp]

Excellent tutorial! Thank you so much, have 2 cars needing this.

[@williamgentile997]

VERY WELL DONE!!! Educational and enjoyable. Great presentation.

[@Nate_Vee]

Brilliant explanation and perfect work. This is how a KZbin video should be. Thank you for your production.

[@bryanst.martin7134]

Nice info! Thanks! I rarely learn much of anything new, but your method of protecting the lenses afterwards was beautiful.

[@bitsandpiecesonly6462]

Great video and awesome explanation step by step! Thank you very much

[@delkhalifa..a6640]

Nice job brother

[@nasty6758]

Excellent demo on this finally! Thanks

[@andrewlee2424]

Some ppl are just gifted at explaining things. Thanks man

[@iselili2]

Excellent video👌🏼 love that you had great tips and went straight to the subject showing clearly how to do it! Wish more people did their videos this way❤️

[@apexalpha4947]

BEST way on KZbin ! GREAT Video Bro ! ! !

[@Shadow2084]

Excellent tutorial. As always - you're the BEST! Take care. ;)

[@jeremywatson5110]

Great Video. Well organized and easy to stay focused when watching it. I didn't even think about cutting it off short!

[@swe3131]

Thanks for the video dude. I did this exact process without a drill and at least 5 of my friend have already asked me how to do it. Worked amazing they look brand new.

[@2DvS_Squad]

Wow i love this work! i will be doing this on my Traverse this week. Just need to buy the film. Great video.

[@kebabtank]

Many thanks for this mate, I'll be getting all my lights crystal clear now!

[@shawnman1111]

This is the best instruction video for this procedure that I have seen. Thank you for making this.

[@dananderson7330]

This a great video with excellent camera work, demos, resources, and well explained methods and reasons. Well Done!

[@davidrivers61]

I will definitely try this method. Looks simple enough!

[@jeromeduanascott7230]

SUBBED....instantaneously!! Son, you are truly DA MANN! I own 5 vehicles and can’t wait to get started. My lenses are not bad, but they look no where as good as this. Thanks for the excellent vid.

[@WinstonFranklin1959]

I just wanted to thank you for this great video/explanation how to do this whole process. The paint protection film was new for me, I keep learning every day. Will apply the film soon.

[@mem3769]

Thanks for the video. I'm going to get everything you used for my headlights. They are so bad that sometimes the only way I know they're on is to turn them off and back on again. It's a sad situation 😢 soon to get brighter ✨

[@johnkaimins9998]

GREAT VIDEO - thank you for producing and posting it.

[@asimiqbal]

You nailed it 👏 👌 Best demonstration with detailed instructions you work hard makes it easier for us. Stay safe always. Thanks man, much appreciated.

[@TheLaxplayer00]

Great how-to video, your explanation style is perfect and succinct!

[@sankahonda600]

Excellent detailed video..thank you so much for sharing ur knowledge with the rest of the world! Cheers!!!

[@NoonehKradjian]

Totally worth it! My results were just as impressive as the demo.

[@zaink7037]

That's good to hear 👍. I'm just soon to do mine and worried as I've never wet sanded before. I'm going to spray clear coat and sand that with 3000 grit to remove the orange peel and polish

[@Hoghaw]

Nooneh Kradjian Thank You Young Lady!!! That’s what I was looking for, someone who tried this method and were successful!

[@charlesebyjr2925]

I did the ppl on my 2002 Explorer when I bought it, they still look great, beautiful job, thank you

[@chetnawoyski8841]

Spectacular - ABSOLUTELY The Best Headlight Restoration Presentation that I Have Ever Seen. I have an Audi A8L and I’m going to follow your process “to the letter” including the final Paint Protection Film application.

[@sasu6706]

Great job very well explained and demonstrated. Keep up the good work.

[@jennicabagley1357]

Excellent presentation and so helpful! Thank you for the excellent tutorial!

[@africanqueenproject]

Outstanding tutorial! So appreciate your links to all the products used.

[@tropx8995]

This is the BEST solution for oxidized plastic headlights I've seen. I installed Xpel headlight protection film on my 2003 E46 headlights and front turn signals when it was new in Dec 2002. Almost 16 years later they still look crystal clear. Putting PPF over headlights that you just restored is the best way to keep them looking new.

[@JJaimeGA234]

Trop x .

[@JRBeckford]

Great Tutorial! Think I want to try doing this myself!

[@charlottetrades3367]

I am impressed. With your presentation and technique. Success!

[@jsggill]

I am so glad I found your channel. I love the way you make your videos.

[@danielhall3151]

Great video. Hitting all the points fast and still clear enough to understand. Great work. Keep it up! Thanks

[@wandawas2]

Great video. Must try this weekend. Thanks.

[@mgarcia2445]

This was so perfect!! Thank you!! I'm a new subscriber due to this awesome video.

[@bryanskyline]

Tutorial was put together nicely both informative and entertaining. Thank you.

[@rodneyweaver3492]

This is the best video for properly cleaning your headlights , you must do your research before beginning something before making a move on cleaning headlights an I'm glad that I did , by watching your video now I'm a pro at it , lol . Keep up the good work .

[@karlhungus5554]

The best video I've seen on the topic. Thanks and well-done.

[@frankrizzo4778]

Great video👍🏻🇨🇦. Did mine on the RSX in the fall. I also clayed the headlights and put ceramic coating on them

[@zaink7037]

That's a good and easier alternative to putting a clear coat or PPF on. I was thinking of buying a ceramic coating but can't justify buying it just for the headlights.

[@alvinomelgoza2887]

Thanks so much Milan!!! The video could not have been any better! Great job and thanks for your hard work!!!!

[@raywan1300]

Finally someone with detailed information and direction. I will be trying this on my Honda, thank you

[@ej-fr5xg]

Your made it very easy and clear to understand Great job bro Thku

[@SwtTrisha8]

Great instructions and beautiful outcome! 👣

[@rustphinelalas1060]

the best thing about this video is that he is saying the reality on you can do and cannot do in restoration, he even said that som of the dirt inside can not be removed unless you disassemblr headlight thanks man

[@adeelzafar5674]

Fantastic video dude! Love the way you explain everything.

[@dvrify1]

Milan, you bodybuilding legend, this escalated from 1/10 to 10/10 on my DYI difficulty scale real quick... :-D

[@milanmastracci]

I think it was quite simple :) It involves a few different things but I showed you the entire process. Unless you don't have hands or don't have eyes, there's nothing stopping you from doing what I did to my Audi :)

[@dvrify1]

Thanks for your faith in me, buddy, I'll see how I'll negotiate that with my A-Class W169 lady :) Nice tutorial, indeed!

[@Vintiqueture]

Wow, amazing results, best solution at the end! Definitely going this route instead that clear coat way. Subb'd

[@vinsbmx]

wow man, incredibly thorough! thanks a bunch, this was the video I needed to complete my headlight restoration course.

[@Bap_TB15]

This one a very proper pieces of information well explained, plus a nice trick with the paper protection film (PPF), rather than clear coat... and it actually WORK! Thank you very much, Milan 🙏

[@DinhDover]

PPF! Best idea I've seen yet.

[@mydyisgod]

Best video re: restoring headlights!! EVER! And I watched a few. Liked, subscribed and clicked the “bell!”

[@ahlin5670]

Very genuine speaking... Good to hear his advises 👍👍

[@Stringsnsounds69]

Great video! No bug spray, wd40, etc. crap. This is the real way to restore head lights and they will stay looking good for years to come! Thanks for the great info!

[@adila74]

Great job! Thanks! I'm gonna do this for a Bora. :D

[@elgatogordo9523]

Awesome! 🤔 I’m adding the PPF on the wifey’s new car headlights to prevent them from deteriorating in the future.