Restoring 14 Year Old Headlights to GLASS Finish

[@justinbuice]

Thanks for all of the support on this video! To everyone suggesting to "Simply buy new lights," these are around $750 PER SIDE bit.ly/30I5wwg I'll stick to the $20 polish for now! ;) To those suggesting to replace the lenses, unfortunately these are not designed to be taken apart (shame on BMW). Because of that, it would be a tremendous amount of work to disassemble them, and there are no official OEM or Genuine replacement lenses. For $20 and about an hour of my time, I'm satisfied with the results I got, even If I have to redo them in a year.

[@keny46]

I've done several people's cars headlights including my own and a few things I've learned are that they turn out way better if they're already bad aka the original coating on the lenses is worn off if it's not and the lights are only bad at the top its a pain in the ass to make them look like new. As long as you reapply the coating that protects the lenses you shouldn't have to worry about resanding them, just don't forget.

[@JasonHoningford]

Look for just the lenses, I think I paid $80 for each lens and they lasted about 4 years until I sold the car and got top dollar for the trade. bmw 3

[@danusmc3]

how long did it take per light????

[@CajunTaco]

Lucky you. Mine are 900 for my mazda.

[@adamcichon6957]

Also you could do it permanent, not only for a year... kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3atk36Cj5yFo68

[@edgy1rocks]

Thanks for staying true to the older platforms. Anybody can buy a new car. It takes a pro to keep an old one looking new!

[@justinbuice]

Very true! I can't afford a new car, so I might as well take care of what I have :)

[@edgy1rocks]

Even if you could afford a new car, the depreciation of the vehicle once you drive it off the dealer's lot would make that a poor decision. I didn't have a garage when I bought my first BMW - (a 1982 320i, purchased new) and now, nearly 30 years later, I prefer letting someone else take the first big hit of depreciation. Properly serviced and cared for, these are very desirable rides! It really helps to have a garage though! Nice progress on yours! I'm still thinking about the kerosene heater...

[@Thedeshawn]

Justin Buice same here I love my bmw and I put a screen in mine it’s huge

[@NeKoShinn666]

funny you say that because a TRUE older platform would come with glass lens. Newer cars have plastic lens that yellow in a few years. all 3 of my cars have glass headlight lens, never need to worry. 1996,85,85

[@TheHeretic435]

Older platform lol. I drive an E39

[@NathansBMWWorkshop]

That is by far the Best kit you can get , I did 10 cars out of my 1 kit

[@N54-]

Stonks 📈

[@NathansBMWWorkshop]

Na Vi you can get a year or 2 out of them depending on how much you park it in the sun

[@nokstabln]

@@navi6341 if you put transparent film after they are done it can last 2-3 years at least if you daily park outside. I do not know why he did not put foil on them, they will fade in a couple of months in the sun as the protective uv lacquer is gone...a colleague had them done for about 45usd with film (25usd without) for the pair and they look new after 4 years.

[@justinbuice]

@@navi6341 In my case, the headlight assemblies for my car are $1,400 brand new for a pair. For that price I'd much rather polish them once or twice a year.

[@JonOlaivar]

Hey look, my two favorite BMW content creators in one place!

[@bovianna]

The whole process was absolutely beautiful, from start to finish! Motivates me to do mine when the weather gets better (I don’t have a garage)

[@TheJared1445]

As a detailer on certain cars where the hood comes up next to the headlights, I’ll just pop the hood and completely remove sanding it from the equation.

[@prasna837]

Not a good idea as the polish can splatter all over the engine bay. The hood is the easiest to tape off anyway.

[@karolisrum6573]

@@prasna837 I also open the hood, but put a cover on the engine bay

[@_ZAYA]

His voice is so calm and soothing I could watch him for hours

[@semajdouglas3231]

I always come here you are the one that makes me get a bmw E90

[@timreichmann8799]

ASMR Headlights. I think we found something that never has been on KZbin

[@justinbuice]

😅

[@thakoharris]

Was thinking the same! Love it! It’s all about the headlights.

[@bartsabitch6635]

Asmr is for perverted weirdos.

[@DeuceDevious]

entirely untrue. there are a great deal of ASMR detailing videos with this kind of stuff...

[@jankindl915]

sorry, but youtube is full of videos like this....

[@terminusbeatzframptonhood]

Bro when I had my e90 I learnt a lot from your videos. I have an 330e f30 now and I still watch your videos. Keep up the good work B👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽

[@owenlee4585]

the production quality of this video is amazing. Shots are in focus, audio levels and quality are spot-on, explanation and video length was great as well. Subscribed, keep it up :)

[@justinbuice]

I appreciate that! I put a lot of effort into production. Im glad to see that it doesn’t go unnoticed.

[@DesertWolfFIN]

i did the sanding and clear coat only as well on my e46. The finish is pretty decent, still better than nothing. Might redo the restoration with proper products soon, as well as the trunk lights

[@SKOMPAS]

Using clear coat on lights is sketchy, really affects the quatily of your light beam

[@SnowGolem1TheL33t]

Not if applied correctly, key words but. Hardly anyone except tradesmen automotive painters or headlight mod/resto businesses do it right.

[@andrewjames6516]

Thank you for this video! After I watched I ordered a kit myself. Just did them last night and it was just as easy as your tutorial. Perfect foolproof explanation so no one should worry about ruining their headlights. Meguiars should pay you for this advertising lol

[@SWAYLAB]

This kit is awesome. Used it on a car we sold last year. Literally like new. Thanks for documenting!

[@knatt99]

It helps a lot! I do this for friends all the time. But i do have a lot of equipment so i just use regular coarse polish and finish with a fine polish. And coat it with a ceramic Coating.

[@TitanFlare]

Nice video man, just bought the kit from your link. I can't stand when people make these videos for the sole purpose of "selling" their method of affiliation, it just makes them look greedy and untrustworthy. Your honesty and straightforwardness is rare in KZbin today. Thanks again

[@golfmother3141]

Great clip and no SHOUTING , you are a good presenter well done . Used the mid range product on my 2002 Audi TT and it worked a charm , be prepared to take your time , the result will be good , i ceramic coated when finished CMX and they still look great after 8 months .

[@94muddertrucker]

Extra tip/trick, put a few drops of dawn soap in water bottle. Helps lube a little more and helps keeps sand paper cleaner, plus allows easy cleaning of headlight between stages.

[@JonOlaivar]

Holy shit. I was convinced there was no hope for my e90 330s headlight lenses but this video proved otherwise. Thanks my man, keep up the good content.

[@frandanco6289]

I have restored hundreds of headlights as a Detailer and all of them have come out beautifully.. It is always worth the work if you really want to do it..

[@jonyrock]

I made a video that offers a more permanent solution with 2k clearcoat if you want to see. I've tried waxing tons of times and have tried some of these kits over the years, in 3-6 months you'll be sanding and waxing them again (Florida sun is rough). My process ran me about $30.

[@sorcat]

Man, don't stop making E90 videos. I love them and the way you make them.

[@listenlearn5445]

Affirmative, it does work. Outlined to follow directions, and you will get the results you are seeing. Mine were pretty bad, worse than the Beamer lamps, but end product looked just as good, but the reminders are extremely important.... keep wet, horizontally and vertically gently sand , but thoroughly and evenly... you can do this.... Presentation was really well done.....

[@Petee]

the satisfaction of crispy headlights

[@hellinusholy]

I've actually used this product before. Works very well. I've only had to do it one more time after, and I just went and got sand paper using the same method and what I had left over from the box.

[@hellinusholy]

Also, my lights when I bought my car was like 4 times worse. Like thick yellow.

[@efthimios]

hey justin! nice video, my 2011 335 has 55K miles and almost paid off, your vids and love for your car inspires me to keep my car after its paid for and maintaining it for hopefully another 3-5 years for no car payment.

[@ethanblake6439]

Please keep on doing the bmw videos! I’m so close to buying mine and i love watching what you do with yours and learning!

[@temio.463]

I just did this on my e90 with my buddy, my headlights are crystal clear! I plan on applying a 3M film to them, similar to the way described in Milan Mastracci’s video.

[@justinbuice]

Nice!

[@frenchmontana423]

did you use the coating after too? or just sand and seal?

[@drumskas]

Great job my man, easy to follow directions with your video. I like how you stopped to explain before or after each step. Keep it up.

[@rogerpritchard]

Very helpful and easy to follow instructions, pleasure to watch,. Thanking you from Thailand 👍👍👍🙏

[@melchesgarage3283]

Most underrated headlights out there. I love mine way more than the newer ones.

[@alfredocarpaneto5976]

Not trying to throw shade but I just bought a Rustoleum $8.99 restore kit and used it on some WORKED 2001 OEM Audi headlights and it worked awesome, they give you a little sanding block and a single final finish wipe. Took about 20 minutes for both lights and they were BAD tons of build up and completely dull. It was easy and all I used was some elbow grease.

[@BulliKid]

I have done a few headlight restorations. The best is sand 600 and then 2k clear coat. And then You can 1k sand and buff depending on how smooth the 2k clear layer down. If you use a good gun you won’t need to cut and buff. Will be doing videos come summer time on my channel. Cheers. Happy new year.

[@justinbuice]

Im going to try that method on my other car

[@allanmaureenmacintyre4474]

Great Vid man. No bull, super clear instructions - You have talent.

[@KiesMotorsports]

Looks brand new!

[@kevomorider6254]

wow! the before and after shots look so satisfying!

[@justinbuice]

I was impressed!

[@Realpreshaanb]

Nothing more satisfying than near perfect headlights 😁 great work bro🙏🏼

[@justinbuice]

Probably the best $20 I spent on this car lol. Thanks!

[@makosasimakis118]

One year ago , I gave my 2004 e46 coupe to BMW dealership to restore my headlights . Pretty good job 👍🏼

[@beansie5493]

Great video.....no nonsense. Most of us are non professional so this is great and easy

[@hv9356]

I learned: When the lens's are really glazed you have to sand the hell out of them.!! Don't be shy. They will always buff right up but the more you sand the cleaner they'll look.

[@finz1374]

thx, mine are so bad looking, I'll try how it goes

[@jonyrock]

@@finz1374I made a video that offers a more permanent solution if you want to see. I've tried waxing tons of times and have tried some of these kits over the years, in 3-6 months you'll be sanding and waxing them again (Florida sun is rough). My process ran me about $30.

[@oncsaba]

The production quality of the video is really nice, I loved the close ups comparisons, I'll definitely check out your other videos!

[@oncsaba]

Just finished the video, I see you got a whole bunch of new goodies, that explains why the video looks so great!

[@justinbuice]

Thank you I appreciate that! 📸

[@toddsmash]

Thanks Justin! My E90 320d is just starting to show this issue with the headlights and I'd been considering getting this product! Great content mate.

[@raksh9]

You seem like a really chill and nice guy, not to mention the cool car DIY videos. Subbed.

[@JohnBlakeJr]

Enjoyed the camera work! Good tutorial too. Thank you.

[@walterspaceman5592]

Excellent presentation. Your calm voice and vernacular, and poised demeanor are exemplary. Comforting, encouraging. The work that went into music and production values were especially great. Best wishes. Hang in, but if it ever becomes less than a labor of love , say adios. As to critics do not even read dribble from disturbed people, it just clinically proves there was cromagnon dating. You can't help them, as their not breaking out the party hats when these guys show. Best wishes. But you have demonstrated talent here, pursue it, and incorporate other high subscriber blog site ideas if comfortable, it is not theft, it is a compliment to them and an industry given. Good luck.

[@dr.katanga3201]

Impressive. So gentle and Effective. I got similar results!! Thank you so much.

[@BlehBleh0]

First thing on my list for 2020 is to restore the headlights on my 335i E93. This video couldn't have appeared at a better time. Cheers to 2020!

[@justinbuice]

Best of luck! It really make an older car look brand new.

[@EasilyHonest]

I was just talking about doing this to the BMW (my first ever) that I bought 3 days ago. Thanks, can't wait to try the product you used and see how my headlights turn out. Your videos are great!

[@merlinszinhaz]

Very nice job - looks like new! Thank you for this!

[@jeremyryan4022]

Dude turned out amazing bro

[@Adam1llion]

Your videos are amazing! I love watching the b roll on them.

[@justinbuice]

Thank you!

[@davidkolman1288]

Thanks for the great video! Used on my 03 MDX. Lasted about 5 months. Gonna use it on my 08 e92 next

[@jake_spence]

Awesome! I did a video on the same topic and it blew up. Hoping yours does the same, I think you've outdone me in cinematics 😅

[@justinbuice]

Nice! As I'm reading your comment, I see your video in the suggested videos lol. I think your thumbnail is better than mine! How did the finish hold up?

[@jake_spence]

I actually like your thumbnail better, but the before/after seems to get people. It's been about 9 months and mine are still as clear as the day I restored them. I didn't even use a lens protectant or UV clear at the end. But I think everyone's results/longevity differs.

[@justinbuice]

@@jake_spence I think a lot of it has to do with the climate and whether or not you keep it in the garage when it's not being driven

[@VehicleVirals]

@@jake_spence I agree, before and after does get clicks. That said, Justin's thumbnail pic looks CLEAN!

[@jake_spence]

@@justinbuice 6 days and 100k view later... it blew up!

[@atapaz8921]

Really like this video. Helpful and down to earth advice! I also am about keeping my car clean and sharp rather than spending big $$$$. I've been watching your channel for while and hoping to snag a BMW with the good tips you share.

[@joaorocha2242]

Your videos are always useful and well done. I will try it on my BMW e60. You’re awesome don’t stop making videos about the e90 you inspire me in a lot of mods I did on my car, someday I share it with you.

[@loganclaproth]

this is a better how to video than most detailers

[@brandonniebur6884]

This kit is exactly what I need! Thanks for the video.

[@MB7_7]

You've convinced me to get this kit for my 2002 TL, I used another kit but it was all by hand and as you said it seems that the drill makes the difference. Thanks for making such a good vid, cheers!

[@BrandonBicasso]

I had said this 5 times watching this.. "He did that, Wow". This turned out fantastic!!

[@TigBitties24]

sweet vid man! keep the Bimmer content comin!!!

[@bajaadventurerider]

Great video, the only tip I would ad is to rinse the milky water ASAP so it doesn't dry om the paint.

[@frandanco6289]

Yes, just run the hose very slowly holding it with your other hand over the work as you sand, and it will really make this faster.. The disks will last longer, and the results will be really even all the way across..

[@rookietoprobuildz]

I got to do this for my Accord ! Seems better than the RainX version I used before.

[@PENETRATEONTIME]

The ASMR part killed it 🤟 great job man. Greetings from Germany

[@666Kelso]

Excellent video. You have a talent for explaining the process clearly, and with brevity.

[@justinbuice]

Thanks!

[@CorbinWilliams]

Wow great job on this one Justin!

[@jonyrock]

Reminds me of my old e90. Bought it with a broken camshaft, replaced it and put 15k miles on it before selling it. I sanded and reclearcoated the headlights, made the car look great

[@George-dh6zz]

You make videos that are easy to follow. Thanks!

[@williamwhite2739]

Idk how you knew I needed to do my headlights. Definitely gonna get this kit. Looks awesome Justin!

[@justinbuice]

Thanks!

[@williamwhite2739]

Just ordered it from your link! 👌

[@JimmyJiveJones]

Nice video but heres a suggestion. When sanding instead of sanding it horizontal and then vertical vice versa, try sanding it in mini circles to mimic a Dual Action Sander. Itll make for a finer smoother finish and your headlights will stay clear alot longer.

[@JonSantiagoRAW]

Im convinced 👌🏾👌🏾. Can’t wait to see what new content will be released this year!

[@frenchmontana423]

does this work with a 2011 e90 too? like the lci e90? is is the same headlight material? someone help thanks

[@angelgomez4848]

it’s beautiful 🤩

[@justinbuice]

Thank you!

[@Poppinwheeeeellllllieeeeez]

I restore vintage turntable lids regularly. Some with deep burn marks and heavy scratches. 400, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, plastic polish, then a wax...pick one. Surprisingly Pledge is a great finishing stage and buffs to a high gloss mirror finish. The ceramic coat topcoat would replace the wax finish. Depends on your aproach. Money stage is the heavy grit 400, 800. If you rush the first stage you will have poor results. I use hand sanding and polish with a right angle polisher with a white pad.

[@jeffreyheister3803]

Wow , that looks so nice !

[@Icesouldy]

Nice video. I find that the coating isn’t the easiest to work with. Apply too much, you may get streaks after it dries... I learned it the hard way. You almost have to get it right the first time. Try to touch up? streak again.

[@baaelectronics]

Cool video! Now I’ve got to do this for my 2006 325i headlights! I’ve used the Plastx before with just a foam pad and it works temporarily for mild cases but I might just have to try out the more detailed method soon to get them looking brand new.

[@cpt.ahab_it7044]

I used a little rubbing compound from the same company and a rag, worked fast, and great!

[@fasst27]

Nice! I'd probably put two layers of tape, juuust to make sure... 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@pm7805]

The car is a beauty. They are making junk these days. Keep this longer and shiny for years to come. :)

[@privomck461]

Reminds me of a 318i m3

[@ivanjerez2417]

Thanks dude!!! Very well explained!! and worked just great for me. Thanks!

[@justinbuice]

Awesome!

[@marcdb1412]

Thank you very much. Very nice and clear simple video. Thank you.Cheers...

[@dwainetyncompany]

The difference is phenomenal! Justin your awesome as ever my friend! Always love your videos man. Never fails.

[@lonespanker2823]

Just did this on my 06 e60 m5. Looks great and it costed almost nothing when compared to replacements of $1700 each headlight.

[@francislau9648]

Hi, did the cleaning kit able to remove hair line scratches ? Thanks for you input

[@BC-ev4hl]

Makes me want to go buy a car just so I can do this. And listen to him again. He's like the Bob Ross of headlight polishing

[@justinbuice]

😂 thank you!

[@SteezyTeej]

i always love the presentation of your videos, anytime there's other videos i just come to this one because of the atmosphere, ambience, edits. quality content!

[@TengoChorr0]

I used that same kit on two cars and got great results. It's been about a year now and it's almost time to do it again.

[@stevensims3342]

For anyone wondering, the reason the car has angel eyes on pre-LCI E90 lamps is because they are the Hella xenon, adaptive assemblies.

[@GeorgeEI7KO]

Nice job JB! Tip.... Put some dish soap in the trigger bottle the next time. It lubricates the paper and makes the crap come out of the paper a lot easier. Happy new year man!

[@Explores365]

Hi, my 2012 hyundai i210 headlight has got small web type scratches. I don't know wht it is called. Should I try to restore it or buy a new headlight?

[@TGLOK_official]

they look really good bro doing this on my e90

[@TooMuchJayy]

Wow this looks really good

[@justinbuice]

Thanks!

[@james10739]

Pretty much i have not tried any of the after coating but if they are any good you need to or you will be doing them like once a year depending on where you park I use the plastx and it works well with a cheap drill attachment i bought online and i use a set of sandpaper that had 1000,1500,2000,2500 and just work thru them with the paper wrapped around a spoung

[@mr.boostang2064]

Awesome video, going to try this soon on my 2016 Corolla since the OEM headlights are faded and cost $450 new, the aftermarket ones are $180 for a pair but I'm not sure they'll last as long as oem.

[@matamatason7213]

Thank you... I'll do it as soon as tomorrow

[@yvanromero6678]

I tried that on my 2001 pathfinder but i used Rainex and the result was amazing, in your case the headlights look really good. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@n54kai]

Your videos are always so aesthetically pleasing. Love your film making style!

[@justinbuice]

Kai Xavier thank you!!

[@marceloherrera4244]

Excellent video man👌🏼

[@linkstale]

This is actually a great video

[@justinbuice]

Thanks!

[@n3rdyg1rl11]

this is why i miss the days of actual glass headlights. never have to do this.

[@frandanco6289]

Yeah, but with glass headlights, the lighting technology was so bad, it was really good, they were not plastic back then.. You get way better technology lighting today than anything on stock vehicles back then.. Yes, there were off road racing driving lights back then with glass lenses, but they could not be used on the street legally..

[@Gwiedert]

It really depends on the type of plastic used. My 16 year old cars headlights still look brand new. I guess it also depends on how much they are exposed to sunlight though.

[@karollepeto8924]

Not really. Glass headlights can breake if you catch a flying stone from the road. Polycarbonate headligth cover can withstand such impact without damage.

[@karollepeto8924]

@@mahkuntizitchy2083 It happened to me once. a rock chipped a hole in my headlight. I had to repair it with transparent silicone because i didnt want to spend extra € on a new headlight. My previous car Nissan Almera 2001

[@spicysnowman8886]

@@Gwiedert it's all about the exposure to sunlight and the elements, not so much to do with age.

[@antonioh3122]

As always, nice video bro. I've used this kit several times too. Within a few months though, you might be back at it. I wish I could find something that would last longer...

[@justinyeoh2710]

Hey Justin. Justin here too =))) Dont let those keyboard warriors bring you down.. i enjoy watching your videos even it is 2021 now.. Keep it up!

[@00700556]

WE needed this!!!!