Headlight Restoration Near Me

It should come as no surprise that, over time, they may become dull and yellowed. Headlights are an integral part of your vehicle and should always be maintained to increase visibility for you and other drivers during the early mornings, nights, and foggy weather. If your headlights are scratched, foggy, or unexpectedly dim, it’s time to call Glass Doctor for headlight restoration. Headlights can be degraded by harsh weather like rain, snow, and bright sunlight like all exterior surfaces. While the light mechanism and bulb may eventually require replacement, your vehicle’s lenses could be the main cause of the problems you’re experiencing and can often be restored.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your headlights depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, your budget, and the vehicle's long-term goals. If your headlights have minor issues, such as a cracked lens or a faulty wiring connection, a repair might be a cost-effective solution. However, if the damage is extensive, such as impaired housing or significant electrical issues, it may be prudent to opt for a full headlight lens replacement.

If you're unsure, we recommend seeking guidance from a professional—investing in an unnecessary headlight replacement can be costly. Additionally, consider the overall condition of your vehicle and whether a new set of headlights is necessary if you plan to keep it for an extended period.

Considerations may vary if you own a specialty automobile, such as a luxury or commercial fleet vehicle. Luxury vehicles typically feature advanced lighting systems and intricate designs, which can make repairing a preferred option if the damage is minimal and doesn’t compromise the vehicle's functionality.
Fleet vehicles often endure rigorous use, and their headlights are critical for safety. Headlight repairs may be suitable for minor issues, but if the cost and downtime become significant, replacing the headlights can be a more economical choice.

At Glass Doctor, our headlight restoration services will:

• Smooth pitted surfaces.
• Erase scratches.
• Polish headlights, removing any yellowing and returning the acrylic to its original color.
  
  

Like our windshield repair and replacement services, we can often complete your headlight restoration quickly while you wait.

While we can’t guarantee a price for your headlight restoration without first examining your needs in person, we can ensure this: once our service professionals provide you with a final quote, that’s the price you’ll pay. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.

Variables that factor into the total cost of your headlight restoration can include the extent of damage, the type of your vehicle, and any additional services you may require. Our service professionals will conduct an initial assessment and provide you with a transparent estimate before we get to work.

Headlights can be composed of various components depending on the type and age of your automobile. Glass Doctor can accommodate headlight restoration on nearly all of these, regardless of these variables. Rest easy knowing we offer headlight restoration services for these types of headlights:

• Polycarbonate headlights: Polycarbonate headlights are durable plastics that are common in modern vehicles. However, they are prone to oxidation, hazing, and discoloration.
• Composite headlights: Composite headlights consist of multiple materials, such as plastic and glass. The restoration process will vary based on the specific composition of your headlights.
• LED headlights: Some vehicles are equipped with LED headlights, typically with a plastic lens covering the LED array. These produce light through the movement of electrons in semiconductor materials and may become susceptible to clouding and other damage.
• Acrylic headlights: Common in older vehicles, acrylic headlights are transparent and fairly durable. They’re also known as plastic headlights but present a high risk of oxidation and yellowing over time.

Properly restoring your headlights can improve your vehicle’s aesthetics and safety for yourself and others on the road. Here are some tips to ensure your headlights can return to optimal driving condition and may delay future headlight restorations or repairs:

• Start with cleaning: Before restoring, clean the headlights thoroughly to remove dirt and other surface contaminants. Use a mild soap or automotive cleaner with a soft sponge. Then, rinse with water and dry completely.
• Mask surrounding areas: To protect the surrounding surfaces, use masking tape or painter's tape to cover the areas around the headlights. This can prevent accidental damage during the repair process.
• Apply headlight restoration compound: Secure a quality headlight cleaning kit, which typically includes abrasive compounds, sandpaper, and polishing pads. Then, apply the compounds using a clean cloth or the provided applicator, rubbing in a circular motion or following the product instructions.
• Seal the headlights: To protect the headlights from future oxidation, apply a UV-resistant sealant or clear coat. This can help maintain their clarity and prolong their effectiveness.
• Park in the shade: To maintain your freshly cleaned or restored headlights, make a concerted effort to park out of the sun whenever possible. This will reduce exposure to UV rays, which can contribute to discoloration over time.

The process typically involves pre-cleaning, masking surrounding surfaces, applying a specialized compound, and sealing the headlights. For a more detailed breakdown, refer to our guide above.

We recommend the agents found in typical headlight restoration kits. These usually offer sanding pads, polishing compounds, and protective coatings to help remove oxidation and clear the lens.

While WD-40 is an effective product for household applications, it’s not specifically designed for headlight restoration. It may temporarily improve headlights by removing surface contaminants and adding a bit of shine. However, its effectiveness in addressing long-term issues such as yellowing, cloudiness, or UV damage is limited. We recommend using headlight restoration services with a reputable company like Glass Doctor.

The cost of headlight restoration can vary based on several factors. If you opt for DIY headlight restoration, automotive stores typically sell basic kits ranging from $10 to $30. Professional headlight restoration services may cost between $50 and $150 per pair of headlights. Prices can vary depending on location, the service provider's reputation, and the specific techniques used.

Does Glass Doctor offer headlight restoration near me? If you have scratched, discolored, or cloudy headlights, Glass Doctor has your back. Not only is reduced visibility frustrating, but it can be dangerous to you and those around you. If you need headlight restoration, it’s time to schedule your headlight lens restoration appointment. Schedule an appointment online or find a location near you.