Customers ask, what’s involved when you restore my headlights? Well, it’s not a wipe-on process, the process is involved, and depending on the condition of your headlight the following process might become more detailed. We place 3 layers of automotive masking tape surrounding the headlight, not bargain tape you buy in a dollar store. The tape needs to be automotive grade so when you remove the tape it won’t harm your paint. Clean the surface of the headlight with a plastic cleaner to remove the road film.
We will then proceed with power sanding with 500 grit sandpaper, now we have to see if 500 is doing the job, if not we have to go down to 400, 320,220 180, if need be, then back up the scale followed by 800 grit. (If the job requires us to go below the 500 grit an extra charge will need to be applied. We now will sand with 1000 grit and do another assessment. Most cases follow up with 2000 grit, 3000 grit, and then 5000 grit. The magic happens at the 5000 grit level. At this point, the lights are at about 80% CLARITY, we will get back to clarity in just a bit. We then compound/polish the light to perfection.
The last part is applying a UV protective spray coat to seal it for the future. Getting back to clarity, there are many companies out there who will sand to 800-1000 grit level and spray a clear coat on the lights that are meant for car paint, while the light might LOOK good to the naked eye the clarity won’t be there.
Clarity benefits are when the lights are turned on, the headlight beam will be focused like the car manufacturer designed it to be. A headlight that was coated at the 1000 grit level will not have a focused beam. the beam will be scattered resulting in less light while driving at night. Another drawback using a run-of-the-mill clear coat is that it will have a rainbowing effect on your headlights if you look at them from the side.
The Benefits of Mobile Headlight Restoration in South Florida
In a sunny paradise like South Florida, where the sun shines relentlessly, one common problem that vehicle owners often face is cloudy and yellowed headlights. Over time, the harsh UV rays and humidity in the region can take a toll on your car’s headlights, diminishing their brightness and compromising safety. While there are various methods and products available for headlight restoration, mobile headlight restoration in South Florida stands out as the superior choice. In this article, we will explore why mobile headlight restoration is a better option compared to traditional methods and products.
Understanding the Need for Headlight Restoration
The Importance of Clear Headlights
Clear and functional headlights are crucial for safe driving, especially during nighttime and adverse weather conditions. Cloudy and yellowed headlights can significantly reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.
The South Florida Climate
South Florida’s climate is known for its intense heat and humidity, which can accelerate headlight damage. Understanding the unique challenges of this environment is key to effective headlight maintenance.
Traditional Methods and Products
Plastic Headlight Restoration Kits
Many car owners opt for plastic headlight restoration kits available in the market. These kits often include abrasive materials and chemicals that claim to restore clarity to the headlights.
Temporary Solutions
While these kits may provide a temporary improvement in headlight appearance, they often fail to deliver long-lasting results, especially in South Florida’s harsh conditions.
Professional Services
Some vehicle owners turn to professional headlight restoration services. scheduling an appointment is easy to do and they can do it at your home or office.
Mobile Headlight Restoration
Convenience and Accessibility
Mobile headlight restoration services offer the ultimate convenience. Technicians come to your location, whether it’s your home or workplace, making the process hassle-free. We travel to Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach.
Specialized Knowledge
Mobile technicians are experienced and well-versed in addressing the specific challenges posed by South Florida’s climate. They use advanced techniques and tools to ensure your headlights stay clear for an extended period.
Customized Solutions
Mobile restoration services provide customized solutions based on your vehicle’s needs. This tailored approach ensures that your headlights receive the care they require. Every vehicle manufacturer uses different plastic headlights, we know the correct recipe for each manufacturer.
Cost-Effective
Contrary to what one might think, mobile headlight restoration is cost-effective when compared to the expenses involved in purchasing restoration kits or opting for professional services.
The Best Products for Headlight Restoration
Top Products for Headlight Restoration
When it comes to products for headlight restoration, certain brands have gained a reputation for their effectiveness. Here are some top choices:
Cerakote Ceramics Headlight Restoration Kit
Cerakote Ceramics offers a comprehensive headlight restoration kit that provides long-lasting results. Their product is designed to last as long as you own your vehicle. Not enough abrasive materials to get the clarity that you need.
3M
3M is a trusted name in the automotive industry. Their headlight restoration products are known for their quality and durability. However, if you go this route the abrasives can ruin your lights if you do not know what you are doing.
Sylvania
Sylvania offers a range of headlight restoration products that are highly regarded for their performance in restoring clarity to headlights. Abrasives are weak at best. You need a much heavier grit.
Meguiar’s
Meguiar’s is another reputable brand known for its headlight restoration solutions. Their products are widely used by car enthusiasts and professionals alike. Good for LIGHT oxidation if that.
Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone Auto Parts
Both Advance Auto Parts and AutoZone Auto Parts offer a variety of headlight restoration products, making them easily accessible to vehicle owners. Don’t waste your money, you will only call us later to fix what went wrong.
Turtle Wax
Turtle Wax is known for its easy-to-use headlight restoration kits that deliver marginal results.
DIY Enthusiasts
Do-It-Yourself Headlight Restoration
Some vehicle owners prefer the satisfaction of restoring their headlights themselves. Here’s a brief overview of DIY headlight restoration:
Gather Your Materials
To get started, gather the necessary materials, including sandpaper, polishing compound, and protective gear.
Follow the Instructions
Follow a step-by-step guide or video tutorial to ensure you use the correct techniques and products.
Time and Effort
DIY headlight restoration can be time-consuming and may require substantial effort for satisfactory results. If not done properly you can ruin the lights for good!
Enhancing Your Vehicle’s Appearance
The Role of Headlights in Vehicle Aesthetics
Clear headlights not only improve safety but also enhance the overall appearance of your vehicle. Well-maintained headlights contribute to a clean and polished look.
Auto Detailing
Incorporating headlight restoration into your regular auto detailing routine can help maintain your vehicle’s aesthetic appeal. Only if a light polish is needed. 90% of vehicles need sanding.
Griot’s Garage
Griot’s Garage offers a range of auto detailing products that complement headlight restoration, ensuring your car looks its best, requires a lot of work, and doesn’t last very long.
What did we learn?
In South Florida, where the sun’s intensity can wreak havoc on vehicle headlights, mobile headlight restoration emerges as the most practical and effective solution. Its convenience, specialized knowledge, customized approach, and cost-effectiveness make it a superior choice compared to traditional methods and products. Choose a mobile service, clear headlights are essential for safe driving in the Sunshine State.