Cloudy, yellow, or hazy headlights aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they can reduce your visibility on the road by up to 80%, posing a serious safety risk. Headlight restoration is a cost-effective way to restore clarity and extend the lifespan of your headlight lenses without replacing them. But should you attempt it yourself or call in a pro?
Let’s dive into the headlight restoration process, the pros and cons of DIY vs professional, and help you choose the right option for your vehicle and budget.
Why Do Headlights Get Cloudy?
Most modern headlights are made from polycarbonate plastic, which is durable but prone to UV degradation. Over time, exposure to sunlight, road grime, pollution, and car wash chemicals wears down the protective coating, leaving your headlights yellowed or hazy.
Common issues caused by cloudy headlights:
-
Reduced nighttime visibility
-
Decreased resale value
-
Unsafe driving conditions
-
Risk of failing vehicle inspections
The Headlight Restoration Process (Step-by-Step)
Whether you’re going DIY or hiring a professional, the core process is similar:
-
Clean the headlights to remove surface dirt and debris.
-
Sand the headlight with progressively finer sandpaper to remove oxidation and old coating.
-
Polish the lens to restore clarity and shine.
-
Seal the lens with UV-protective coating to prevent future damage.
DIY Headlight Restoration
Tools & Materials You’ll Need:
-
Masking tape (to protect surrounding paint)
-
Sandpaper (400, 800, 1000, and 2000 grit)
-
Plastic polish or rubbing compound
-
Microfiber cloth
-
UV sealant or clear coat spray
-
Optional: a drill with a polishing attachment
You can buy a DIY headlight restoration kit from Repco, Supercheap Auto, or online. These kits usually include everything you need—sandpaper, polish, and UV sealant—and cost from $60
However, keep in mind that results depend heavily on your skill and experience. If you’re not confident, follow all instructions carefully, and don’t rush the job.
⚠️ Be especially careful not to over-sand, particularly when using coarse grits like 400 or 800. This can leave deep scratch marks in the headlight lens that are difficult to remove. Always keep the surface wet, sand in straight lines (not circles), and gradually move to finer grits for best results.
Pros of DIY:
✅ Cost-effective – A DIY kit ranges from $60
✅ Convenient – You can do it at home, at your own pace
✅ Satisfying – Instant results and a sense of accomplishment
Cons of DIY:
❌ Labour-intensive – Requires time and elbow grease.
❌ Inconsistent results – Depends on your technique & skill level.
❌ Shorter-lasting – Many DIY sealants don’t offer long-term UV protection.
❌ Risk of damage – Over-sanding or poor technique can damage the plastic.
Professional Headlight Restoration
What Professionals Do Differently:
-
Use commercial-grade sanding tools and polishers.
-
Apply high-quality UV coatings that last longer.
-
Have the expertise to handle deep oxidation or pitting
-
Provide professional results.
Pros of Professional Services:
✅ Superior finish – Often looks like new
✅ Durability – Longer-lasting protection (up to 2–3 years)
✅ Time-saving – Usually done in under an hour
✅ Safe – Less risk of error or uneven polishing
Cons of Professional Services:
❌ Higher cost – price depends on complexity of job.
❌ Less convenient – Requires a booking or visit to a service center
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Factor | DIY Restoration | Professional Restoration |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $60 or more | $? |
| Time | (your time) | (their time) |
| Longevity | 3–6 months (avg) | 1–3 years (with UV coating) |
| Skill Required | Moderate | None (done by pros) |
| Results | Varies | High-quality, consistent |
Pro Tips (Whether You DIY or Not):
-
Always apply a UV sealant after polishing to protect your lenses.
-
Regularly clean your headlights to slow down oxidation.
-
Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners.
-
If headlights are cracked or badly pitted, restoration may not help—replacement is the better option.
Final Verdict
If you’re handy and enjoy car care tasks, DIY headlight restoration is a great weekend project that can save you money—especially with easy-to-use kits from Repco or Supercheap Auto. Just take your time, avoid over-sanding, and make sure to apply a proper UV sealant. ( Masks up surrounding areas o they are not damaged by sealant overspray)
If you’re looking for long-lasting, showroom-quality results—especially before selling your car or passing inspection—professional headlight restoration is well worth the investment.
Need Help? Call Auto Hero Roadside Assistance
At Auto Hero, we can assess your headlight condition and refer you to trusted local professionals if needed—or help guide you through the best DIY products to use.
📞 Call 1800 79 79 77 to chat with a technician or book a mobile visit.