Now I feel Fkn stupid... I bought a high dollar polisher, several grits of sand paper, soap, buckets, paper towels, microfiber towels, ect to do the same damn job... It was taking me about 15 minutes a vehicle... Damn...
I've got one question for you, how long does it stay that clear? Because there have been other products that work just as well but it doesn't last very long, so please comment?
@@jayd6810 Who cares? It took 30 seconds per headlight! I am sure you could do this once a year or every 2 years. But this stuff like all headlight cleaners do, takes off the UV protection (that turns yellow) from your headlights, so he should have said to add a coat of UV protectant which is recommended every time you clean your headlights with chemicals such as this.
VERY good video. Much better then most that tell us all about their LIFE'S HISTORY or the Neighbor's DOG. Love it. Like Joe Friday on the old Dragnet Series. "JUST THE FACTS". As ALL instructional videos SHOULD BE, Thanks. TP Tuning.
I bought and used the Mothers Mag and Aluminum polish on my son's CR-V headlight lenses. Worked quite well. I decided to try the other lens, but I applied the polish with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Big difference! I took out more of the pitting and made the lens even smoother! You should have seen the amount of yellow that was on the magic eraser as well! I went back over to the first lens and re-applied the polish with the magic eraser. Same thing! Much smoother and removed more of the yellowing. I used a soft cloth to remove the rest of the polish, then I gave both lenses a couple of coats of wax. They look fantastic now! Thanks for the tip! Recommended!
I followed these instructions and repeated the process one extra time I’d say from start to finish on both headlight took around 45 minutes! Very happy with the results! Thank you!
Thank you from an 80 year old widow who owns a 2001 Saturn. This has been so kind of you to share this information and especially kind of you to demonstrate.
01 saturns were much more reliable and can easily last upto 300k miles, vs the classic gm badge engineering saturn auras/chevy malibus especially if equipped with the 3.6 v6 they can be real troublesome
I got told that they started using the polycarbonate lens instead of the glass lens because the glass was a safety hazard for pedestrians! My thinking is that there’s more of a problem if the driver can’t see the pedestrian in the first place because his headlights have gone yellow.
@@28102650 That reminds me of the elimination of side vent windows being referred to as "astro ventilation" . As opposed to cheapining the vehicle and selling it for the same price.
I came across this post a few days ago and the guys at auto zone told me it couldn’t be done but as a single mother I was determined to save money and prove them wrong! I have a 2012 GMC Acadia SLT and the headlights were in such bad shape it was making it almost impossible to see without the brights being ran at night. So I bought the $6 can from my local Walmart and a microfiber towel and started applying small coats doing a little at a time. I took my time and kind of being a perfectionist it only took a few hours. They look brand new! I’m not longer a skeptic in believing I have to rely on the word of technician to get my vehicle repaired. Thank you for your video!
My daughter has a 2008 Honda cvr has head light issues like this she had cleaned them before but with little success. I was getting ready tp buy her a new set of head lights for about $180.00 then I stumble onto this page, went to home depot and got some of this stuff for less then $8.00 and the difference is truly amazing. I did the process about the same speed that was used in the video and got the same results.
One thing I would add is applying a UV protectant such as "303 Aerospace/Marine UV Protectant" right afterwards after cleaning off the residue, since it's actually UV rays that make plastic headlights yellow and fog up so badly. It's just a pump spray-on liquid that applies in seconds and will help keep it from fogging/dulling out again so quickly.
I'm not dissing because if you like it then use it. Its your car and money. But I will say like for instance wd-40 leaves a residue that's difficult to remove. That's why I love the mothers. The more you rub the better. But don't run to hard because plastic lol
How long does the 303 last for you? It's expensive but I feel that it has a lot of uses for other than just headlights. The headlight issue is always a pain though. Unlike the old glass headlights these need work every half year or so. If the 303 can cut this out significantly it would be worth it in my eyes.
Ok. I watched this and ordered it immediately afterwards. Got it today, tried it and WOW!! Took me 15 minutes all together because they were terrible. Perfectly clear now! You are a superhero for sharing this. Thank you!
I did this on my 16 year old Nissan Xterra and it worked. I used 3 applications of the Mother's polish and it made a noticeable difference. To help protect against further degradation I then applied 2 coats of Meguier's Keep Clear Headlight Coating, which is supposed to protect against UV for up to a year. We'll see. Thanks for posting this video.
Seems like regular suntan lotion spf 30 that we use on our body would work on headlights since it is uv rays that cause discoloration. Suntan lotion is cheap. What do you think?
Thank you, young man, for this video! I'm a 77-yr-old woman who bought a 2001 Toyota Celica GT last summer just because :) The headlights were in bad shape, so I went looking for a fix, and that's when I found you. I tried your method, and it worked beyond my wildest expectations. My baby's headlights look brand new thanks to you! Thanks, again.
Missuse baking soda and distilled water and buff with micro fiber towel or spend 15 20 dollars on brand name stuffed headlight cleaner is scam I realize this from my detailing friendstore manufactured products to defog plastic knowing they make money on our ignorance homey not anymore 😅I actually paid for a restoration from a shop I regret it is don't be like me.same result cheaper way dit it.
Thank you so much. Took 18years of discoloration off my Ford Focus headlights in no time at all. No going through various grits, toothpaste, buffer pads or expensive kits that aren't very effective. Plus as a bonus, my wife was sooooooooo impressed!
I've tried numerous products to restore headlights but after trying this .... WOW! This this is by far the easiest and product I've used. Works great. It works better than Mother's headlight Restore. Much thanks.
Did this to my '03 Camry. worked great . My wife was impressed at the headlights that actually shined out into the distance. You don't realize how much the dull lenses affect the lights.
I do! Prior to using Mother's Mag, you could drive my grandmother's '97 Chevy Lumina around town with the "high beams" on at night & not get flashed or pulled over. It was terrible!
Tried every other cream and liquid, so why not. You just might be able to use it on your mag wheels too!'A lot are coated in a 'protective' clear plastic so you can't even polish them no more. Just watch the corrosion spots grow after each year of stone damage occurs. Steel wheels are the best. You can grind/sand/prime/ and repair /them in any colour you want, all for a little time and effort. But like with headlights, there is no 'money' in black steel rims.
This worked fantastic on my 2010 Corolla!! My mechanic wanted to order new headlight units, not anymore. Thanks so much, you saved me hundreds of dollars, it really works and only cost me $8!
Another happy (free) customer! Grabbed it from my garage, got a piece of an old towel, and voila ! In 5 minutes per side had good results! I’m sold! Thanks!
@@mefrankme The easiest by far is Turtle Headlight Restore. Rub it on like car polish, let dry and buff off. You can see the yellow in the towel. One coat lasts a month, but give it another "coat" a week later and it'll last at least 6 months.
By far this is the best solution. I just did this today after watching this. And had the same result. My lights are like new. I did my nephews car as well. 300 bucks in lights saved. Spent 6 bucks on the polish and I have half a jar left.
I used it on a 1998 Avalon. It worked great. I just used an old tee shirt and a small amount of polish. Like polishing a piece of silverware. Very easy. Didn’t need much. Thanks!
Any method you use to clean up the plastic around headlights should be followed by the application of a UV protectant. The lens clouds up and turns yellow because the stock UV protectant layer has worn out, and UV rays have caused the plastic to cloud. You can remove the outer layer and they look fine. But, without reapplying a UV protectant, they will quickly cloud up again.
@@jimw7916 Sure, you can take the (much more than a) minute to redo your headlights every 6 months or so ... or you could take the five minutes and $6 to do the job right and add a UV coating ... and not have to touch your headlights for another 5 ~ 8 years. It's up to you how you want to spend your time. Most reasonable people would want to do a job once in 5 years rather than 10 times in those same 5 years.
this stuff made my lights so clear a deer got mesmerized in the street which made me swerve into a lake. when they pulled my car out of the lake the lights still looked great! thanks dude 👍
....65 years ago, while aboard ship I discovered that that brightwork polish we used on brass fixtures made a great cleanser and polish for the plastic lenses on our battle lanterns which sometimes got scratched and cloudy.
It’s called “Brasso” and we in the Army used it to polish - BRASS! And many discovered that it was an extremely effective plastic polishing compound. Yes I still use it for that.
Sometimes, the YT algorithm gets it right. This video appeared on my recommended feed, and I tried it immediately. I recognized the polish right away since that is what I use for the aluminum wheels on my pickup. It did a great job on my wife's Ford Fusion! I grabbed a microfiber towel and the polish, and I couldn't believe how well this works. Thanks a lot for the info!!
I used the Mothers polish yesterday on my Rav4 and Silverado. Worked absolutely amazing and left the headlights looking new and super smooth, no need to put on anything else. You don't need to use a lot either, just a little dab will be fine. Use clean rags. Thanks for the tip, saved me time and money.
Just did this on my headlights and amazing results for just a few minutes. You can actually feel the headlights getting smoother as you polish them. I plan on going over them again to get even more out.
It works! I ordered a small pot of Mothers on eBay in the UK and just polished my 2000 Toyota Yaris headlights. Amazing results and I'm super pleased. Thanks for the tip as every year my car fails the MOT and I have to pay the garage to polish the headlights to get it through. It only took me ten minutes with a rag and microfiber cloth with no tools. I highly recommend. Steve in Midhurst, UK
Used this technique this weekend on my '08 and '09 Honda Ridgelines. I used an old sock. Worked like a charm. Quick and easy. I was set on buying new lenses now I don't have to! Thanks Brother. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I used it on my son’s 09 Honda Fit and it worked really well, just as demonstrated. It is so easy I wouldn’t bother with any spray-on protectors, just give it a quick wipe with the paste every six months or so. Thanks a million.
This vid popped up in my recommendations last week. Got the Mother's Mag the other day to use on my grandmother's 1997 Chevy Lumina. It DOES work! Wonderful hack! I paid less than $6 for a jar of this from Walmart. Try this guys👍
I've been sharing this with everybody. I learned about it a couple years ago. Works like a champ. Mother's is a good polish for this and aluminum as well. Los Angeles
Every year, as a Father’s Day gift, i do a complete detail on my husbands 2002 Toyota Sequoia. In previous years, I would clay bar as part of the process but at 76, I skipped this step since I h@ve family coming in a week.
I used this product and my results were astounding. Thank you. When I finished one headlight I was so amazed that I went back to the store where I bought this product to show them the results. They insisted on taking photos of the 2 headlights.
I tried it today and it did a wonderful job ran in house and told my husband I did it like you said I have 2004 Toyota Highlander it looks 😊 Thank you for sharing.
Literally saw this video last night and tried it today on my 2008 MKX headlights and it works! I wiped the lenses with a wet magic eraser first like another comment said until I felt they were clean enough. Then I dried the lens with a towel and then applied the polish with a dry towel and the difference is dramatic. Its not perfect but it saved me $600+ replacing the entire headlights. Mine were oxidized and yellow to the point of barely being able to see through it. I would say they are 75-80% improved. Im very happy and excited to see how they perform at night. Thank you for this video!
Bought expensive, ineffective kits before. NEVER AGAIN! I'm older and don't want to waste time cleaning my cars. You just saved me hours of my life with this trick. Thank you!
I have 2003 Honda Accord with very cloudy, yellowed headlights. I used this and they are as clear as new. Great to find something so easy that actually works... and for only 6 bucks!
Great video! This truly works. I used to use the expensive restoration kits that used to take at least an hour using a drill to polish in several stages. This process is much cheaper and faster, done by hand, and I could not tell the difference between the expensive kit and this. After doing this, i wiped down the lights with 303 Protectant to provide some UV protection. I did the process twice and each time, it took out crud. I figure doing this every two or three car wash will keep the headlights clear, as it's very easy and fast to do. Thanks to this video!
Works great, used this on my daughter's 2012 Honda Civic head lamps. It was like night and day. But it didn't last long. Only about 3 or 4 days and they were cloudy again
It WORKED! Thank you so much. I did one quick pass on 'cataracts' headlight on my '16 Honda Accord...and I already see a major improvement. I'll hit it again with even more elbow grease for a 2nd pass. $6 Fix! Thank you, Thank You THANK YOU!
I did my headlights several months back, I did end up wet sanding them and the yellowing still hasn't returned. They are super clear and really bright at night. Best advice I've ever received. Thanks bunches, saved lots of money!
@@superdude7459 I’m thinking she sanded them first I’m going to try it out. I already put the polish on but wasn’t as bright as I hoped so I’m gonna go over with wet sanding then re apply the polish
@@superdude7459 I used 800, 1500 then 2500. Just make sure your headlight stays wet I used a spray bottle and constantly sprayed wherever I was sanding. Step 1- With the 800 grit I used a circular motion and with very little effort the paper will do exactly what it was made to do automatically. plus you don't want any scratches too deep to buff out later. (You will see the yellowing start to lift off and run down with the water). And once you feel like the entire light has been evenly sanded do a final spray down and wipe with a microfiber cloth. (Your light will look like you have really made a mistake by sanding it but no worries, you got this!) Step 2- Get your 1500 grit and use long strokes either side to side or up and down, I felt side to side was more comfortable. Remember always keep your paper and the light wet at all times. Same as before, once you have evenly sanded it spray it down really well and wipe with our microfiber cloth. Step 3- The 2500 grit will clarify the light to almost perfect clarity and you want to make sure you take your time and smooth out the first two steps and trust me you will see a huge difference and you shouldn't have any issue seeing exactly where you need to tidy it up. Lastly same as before give it a good spray down, wipe with your microfiber Cloth. Step 4- I used a small maybe guarter size amount of Mother's and rubbed it over the entire light, I allowed it a minute or two to "soak in" then with a dry microfiber cloth I wiped it off in a circular motion. I did this step twice, mine were in pretty bad shape. But wow, the difference will shock you. And the best part is the yellowing still has not returned and they have been exposed to snow, rain, direct sun you name it. I even did it for my ex mother in law and she too was very surprised with the results. I hope this helps you out, I apologize for the late response I have been moving and figured I would check my messages before I head off to work. So good luck and I hope your headlights are as bright as the day is long! Victoria
I just did this on my paid-off 2000 Windstar van. WOW. You are right-on. The lights never looked so good. I do a lot of nite driving and this will help immensely. I already told five other people. Simple, easy, and it works. Thanks for taking the time to post this. Even after nearly a year, it is still helping people. Good job.
Use damped baking soda and you’ll get the same results. Work it in straight lines (not circular). Rinse and dry the lens, then coat lens with car wax and buff off. 2 cents worth of baking soda.
Been using baking soda for years. Once the lid has been removed a few time, and the dampness has got to it, the soda looses its power for baking. That's what I retain for the purpose, instead of throwing it out, so it's free.
That works too but it takes too much time. The mag polish and and a battery operated polisher buffer is faster do once 5 minutes per headlight and second application 2 days later and you'll have practically new headlights again a total of 20 minutes or less, it takes way too much time with the baking soda and even those kits that they sell at Walmart too much time consuming.
I had great results with this. I previously purchased one of those kits to restore the headlights - it did not do much. I followed this up with some headlight sealer and the headlights are nearly good as new. Thanks for posting!!!
That was Awesome!!!! I am a senior and this is so much easier than the sandpaper method.....I would recommend this to seniors because it is so much easier and you would probably get more subscribers, just a suggestion.
Just the right video. I got some mothers already! Everyone else used all kinds of sand papers and products .... I wonder if a clear anti uv coat would also be a good measure?
Thank you! You saved me almost $1,000 dollars! I have a Lexus 460 ls and I was just going to replace bit headlamps! I went and bought it and you’re right! About 7 mins each light and Bam! Clear again! I wish I could upload pictures. This stuff is amazing!
That’s unbelievable how well that worked. I even have some on hand. I used it on my motorcycle wheels. You just saved me a whole lot of work and expense. Thanks for a great video.
Thank you very much dear SP Tuning, did it just like you have demonstrated with the same polish. Took out all the 18 year old layer of oxidation stuck on the headlight of our used & neglected Acura TSX. You are simply wonderful dear sir!
Been using Mothers on headlights for years, quick and easy. A little more elbow grease with a rag than with a polisher but both work great. I expect any metal polish paste would work. Also works on the paint around the headlight. 🙂
@@guitarman_3693 Glad to help. The Mother's compound is a little different than you describe, it is strictly micro abrasives in a paste, no muriatic acid. Also about aluminum oxidation, it happens in seconds so that most of the time when you observe it there is already an oxide layer on it, this is sort of like corrosion preventing more corrosion. Aluminum is unique in that to the eye it looks clean and bright but there is an oxide layer, even on polished aluminum. It's a great unique metallurgy of aluminum. Muriatic acid is quick and easy but it requires very thorough rinsing to stop any micro reaction from continuing and weakening the metal. Basically needs pressure washing. Long term it can weaken the metal and cause failure and is generally not recommended for critical applications like in aerospace. In HVAC continued use could result in eventual need for system replacement but that could be a good thing for other reasons.
I previously had used a headlight cleaner from Meguiar’s and it took a lot of rubbing. Even then, the results were less than desirable. I already had some of this for my custom wheels so why not try it. The results are fantastic and takes a lot less buffing! Thanks for sharing your discovery. Mother’s should put this in a different container and market it a headlight cleaner!
I own a motorcycle and my truck has nickel w/chrome. I use “Mothers” polish but a felt disc. I bought this at $1.89 a jar of the same size but 4 years ago. Now it’s $6.25 and crazy. I cheaper at home box stores. Scratches in glass like wiper, felt polishing pad (3.5” rotolock) was $1.90 each but use cerium oxide mixed with water to peanut butter thickness and keep heat down moving, but removes a visible light scratch. Cheaper than windshield! DK, ASE Master, retired.
My headlights were in the same condition. I got a tub of this Mother's polish and did the hand polish thing like he did here. It did work, but not quite as well, and definitely not in a couple of minutes. Eventually, they fogged back up, so I did it again. This time, though, I picked up a conical buffing wheel and chucked it into my drill and went at it. Worked a lot better (more so on the first side than the second), but again, it took a lot longer, even with the mechanical assist; about 90 minutes for both sides. Long story short, yes, you can restore headlight covers with Mother's Mag & Aluminum Polish.
This will probably won't stop the headlights from oxidizing again in a few months, but it's so simple, fast and cheap that I wouldn't mind doing it 2-3 times a year to keep the headlights looking shiny. Beats the heck out of the alternative methods, which are much more time consuming and often need tools that most people don't have. Thanks for this useful tip!
@@dannygarcia8783 u can buy a kit, it requires sanding…. Sylvania and 3 m are best… search on you tube for instructions…. Key is to protect lenses after with UV protectant every year
After watching this video, I found my jar of the same product and tried it on my 2003 VW's headlights and achieved the same results just as quickly. Thanks!
Finally someone made a video of this...ive been using aluminum polish on headlights for years...its so easy and works every time. If you have a polisher, you can use it on a buffing pad too. Youll have them looking like the day you got the car...but i recommend putting a coating on after you clean it. Otherwise itll just get dirty again very quickly.
This stuff is great! I have been using this method for a couple years. I do use a cone polishing wheel attached too my drill, which will take this up a notch, leaving the lenses crystal clear. Follow up with a coating of 303 UV Protectant and you'll get a good year out of it. This method is so easy and cheap, if you have to do a repeat application, it's still worth it.
If you had to do it every year, it wouldn’t be a problem for the housing would it? I’m pretty excited to do this for my truck. I have a bottle of 303 in the garage right now. What about new headlights? Could you apply 303 to keep them from ever needing a polish? How often would you need to do this? Sorry for all the questions, but you seem like the guy with the answers!
@@digitalgoonie I've never seen any issues with this method. I have done my neighbors car several times and they look great. As far as using 303 on new headlights, it is a UV protectant, so it should help preserve the original clear coat.
This video really helped me, thank you. I had done the sanding with 400, 600 & 1500. But I could not figure out why the headlights on my ‘05 were not clear. Ran down and got some Mother’s polish and that did it! They look new now!
You need to use grit sandpaper 2000 than 3000 than 5000....You will never get a smooth NEW LIKE HEADLIGHT if you only stopped at grit 1500....You need to use Polishing compound after you finish using grit 5000....
@@deepdude4719 I actually just use the turtle wax finishing compound....doesnt really matter what compound you use...its your persistansy in sanding your headlight to a smooth finish....really make sure you only go in one direction....
This stuff works great. I've cleared a few headlights with it in addition to tailpipes, rims, and chrome pieces which it was intended for. I'd be sure to hit the lights with at least some wax if you have it laying around, if not a more permanent UV protectant.
@@squirtlesmells8174 it's still pretty clear. However, I'll probably have to reclean it again. It's ok. The cleaner is cheap. As long as it keeps it clean it's all good.
I'm so happy that I saw this video. I went out and brought "Mother's" and did my headlights yesterday. I did them exactly as the video suggested and now they look like new. Thank you for doing the Video, saved me a lot of money and only took 3 to 4 minutes. Again Thanks!!
Living in CA the strong sun and heat destroys plastic headlights after several years. I tried this on my 2008 Lexus headlights and did two passes with it. BIG improvement! Not totally clear as mine were etched and yellowed badly but amazingly better. Went to wet sanding with 2000 grit sandpaper and another pass and they are good as new. To make it last a long time (years) apply a few coats of clear coat (automotive with UV protection).
The wheel polish is a fine-grit polish. If the damage is deeper, you need something rougher (such as paint rubbing compound, or fine-grit sandpaper); then the wheel, or paint polishing compound. There are lots of choices.
I watched your video yesterday 14/02/22! I have a 1997 Ford F-350 all original and yes the lenses were as yellow as a daisy! I went head and purchased the Mothers product that you showed and couldn’t believe the results! I took it an extra step by applying it three times , circular, side to side, forty five each way and buffed them ! I even did the rear tail lights and was so happy with the results! Thank you 🙏 so much ! I’ve past your video on to several friends and family! Cheers 👍🇨🇦
I literally just did this to my car and it worked😮😱😁‼️ While wiping off if you see dull spots you have to keep applying layers until they're gone either with elbow 💪🏾grease or a buffer on a low setting as it's clearly visible seeing the yellow tint rub off. I followed up with Nu Finish also for extra added shine.
I used this on my 05 Camry headlights 2 years ago, and they looked great. Now they are fading again, and need redone. I used a drill with a buffing wheel.
That looks impressive and I'm sure the polish is polishing the surface, but the polish may contain petroleum distillates which could fill in the rough surface of the headlight lens and make it appear perfectly clear. I would like to see a follow-up where you polish a faded lens, then afterwards wash several times with dawn dishwashing liquid and water to remove any possible petroleum distillates. Then dry and see if the surface still looks good.
You need to apply a UV protectant spray to protect the exposed plastic. A light buff with the polish and another application of the protectant is all that’s needed annually. If you live in a extremely sunny environment, wash off and dry the headlight and reapply the protectant every other month.
Amen brother “it’s old I don’t really care about it” 🙄 really? i detailed cars to get thru college 80% of my rides throughout my life I’ve bought 2-5 year old used after a lot of depreciation and drove paid off till the wheels fall off
This stuff is pretty good, but if the lights are in really bad shape, wet sanding is what’s really needed. And wet sanding is fairly simple to do just a squirt bottle and some various grades of sandpaper.
The kits that require sanding aren't all that difficult, & they use rubbing compound on top of that, so there's just about the same amount of rubbing the surface. I've tried your way & the sanding method, the WD40 method, & a couple others. The sanding method with rubbing compound has the best final appearance. But here's something more important. If you don't recoat the headlight, your effort will be in vain in 9 months or so. There's a special anti-UV clear plastic coating you spray on that's the key to a long-term repair. I did that to my car's headlights 2 years ago & they still look brand new.
BTW... the original stuff I used is: USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear It's a 2-component spray gloss in a can, very expensive, which is why I suggested the other one. Plus when you push the button on the can that combines the 2 chemicals, you have to use the entire can within 24 hrs. I got great results with it, so no complaints there, but you end up throwing away the majority of the product, plus it says it's highly toxic.
@@mosler302 that sounds like a part epoxy. I think that's what actual clear coat is. I would try to use that as an experiment on a donor car for free if they have nothing to lose for trying it out. I feel a 2 part spray would be actual clear coat.
@@mosler302 just out of curiosity... what does it go for? I can try it out on my m35 x which has a couple spots where the clear coat is just about done.
✅ ✅ ✅ 🚨 🚨 🚨 HERES WHERE TO BUY IT!! FREE SHIPPING RIGHT FROM MY AMAZON STORE 🚨 🚨 🚨 ✅ ✅ ✅
www.amazon.com/shop/sptuning
Now I feel Fkn stupid... I bought a high dollar polisher, several grits of sand paper, soap, buckets, paper towels, microfiber towels, ect to do the same damn job... It was taking me about 15 minutes a vehicle... Damn...
Was the compound applied with a damp
cloth?
I've got one question for you, how long does it stay that clear? Because there have been other products that work just as well but it doesn't last very long, so please comment?
@@jayd6810 Who cares? It took 30 seconds per headlight! I am sure you could do this once a year or every 2 years. But this stuff like all headlight cleaners do, takes off the UV protection (that turns yellow) from your headlights, so he should have said to add a coat of UV protectant which is recommended every time you clean your headlights with chemicals such as this.
Bought it at Wal mart 10.00 dollars.
No music, no non-sense stories etc etc just gets to the point, double thumbs up!
Yup. Rare...
amen to that
VERY good video. Much better then most that tell us all about their LIFE'S HISTORY or the Neighbor's DOG. Love it. Like Joe Friday on the old Dragnet Series. "JUST THE FACTS". As ALL instructional videos SHOULD BE, Thanks. TP Tuning.
@@trailsendfarm141 I agree .....
Now a day hard to find some good people like that...We need them more....
I bought and used the Mothers Mag and Aluminum polish on my son's CR-V headlight lenses. Worked quite well. I decided to try the other lens, but I applied the polish with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Big difference! I took out more of the pitting and made the lens even smoother! You should have seen the amount of yellow that was on the magic eraser as well! I went back over to the first lens and re-applied the polish with the magic eraser. Same thing! Much smoother and removed more of the yellowing. I used a soft cloth to remove the rest of the polish, then I gave both lenses a couple of coats of wax. They look fantastic now! Thanks for the tip! Recommended!
What kind of wax? Regular car wax?
How's it holding up for you?
It's amazing how they do not acknowledge your questions with an update.
EXCELLENT ! magic eraser it is !
@@zcustomcarnesi Yeah, it's amazing how the OP's life doesn't revolve around random youtube commenters.
I followed these instructions and repeated the process one extra time
I’d say from start to finish on both headlight took around 45 minutes!
Very happy with the results!
Thank you!
Thank you from an 80 year old widow who owns a 2001 Saturn. This has been so kind of you to share this information and especially kind of you to demonstrate.
Omg I got a Saturn aura n I really don’t like it to much stuff that goes bad on that car
01 saturns were much more reliable and can easily last upto 300k miles, vs the classic gm badge engineering saturn auras/chevy malibus especially if equipped with the 3.6 v6 they can be real troublesome
Hi Ms Roseanne!
I have a 2002 Saturn SL 255kmiles on it. I'm here for the same reason.
@@uccoskun is it hard to find parts for your car?
I miss the old days when headlights never went dull because they were made of REAL GLASS-!!
I know right!
Cheapos Trying To Save a Buck 🤨
I was just thinking about that the other day.
I got told that they started using the polycarbonate lens instead of the glass lens because the glass was a safety hazard for pedestrians!
My thinking is that there’s more of a problem if the driver can’t see the pedestrian in the first place because his headlights have gone yellow.
@@28102650 That reminds me of the elimination of side vent windows being referred to as "astro ventilation" . As opposed to cheapining the vehicle and selling it for the same price.
Like on my Corolla.
I can testify that this works I did it last week both lights done in under 10 minutes. Best headlight restore video on the internet.
I came across this post a few days ago and the guys at auto zone told me it couldn’t be done but as a single mother I was determined to save money and prove them wrong! I have a 2012 GMC Acadia SLT and the headlights were in such bad shape it was making it almost impossible to see without the brights being ran at night. So I bought the $6 can from my local Walmart and a microfiber towel and started applying small coats doing a little at a time. I took my time and kind of being a perfectionist it only took a few hours. They look brand new! I’m not longer a skeptic in believing I have to rely on the word of technician to get my vehicle repaired. Thank you for your video!
OMG! All you need is a cloth and some brake fluid and wipe them down and they will shine.
They obviously wanted you to buy a new headlight for $120
Can relate! Lol
@@xstreamoneya brake fluid can ruin your paint anywhere it touches
@@benzee1 I wouldn’t put it on paint then just plastic headlights.
I appreciate these videos. No B.S. No 10 min video on a 20 second hack. Wish more were like this.
My daughter has a 2008 Honda cvr has head light issues like this she had cleaned them before but with little success. I was getting ready tp buy her a new set of head lights for about $180.00 then I stumble onto this page, went to home depot and got some of this stuff for less then $8.00 and the difference is truly amazing. I did the process about the same speed that was used in the video and got the same results.
How's it holding up
@@silvercommander the head lights are doing good
One thing I would add is applying a UV protectant such as "303 Aerospace/Marine UV Protectant" right afterwards after cleaning off the residue, since it's actually UV rays that make plastic headlights yellow and fog up so badly. It's just a pump spray-on liquid that applies in seconds and will help keep it from fogging/dulling out again so quickly.
Why waste time and money when mothers aluminum mag polish does the same if not better and it takes maybe 3-4 mins every 6-8 months
I'm not dissing because if you like it then use it. Its your car and money. But I will say like for instance wd-40 leaves a residue that's difficult to remove. That's why I love the mothers. The more you rub the better. But don't run to hard because plastic lol
@@thatonecrazydudeyaknow285 you could save money because you don’t have to buy more mothers
@@thatonecrazydudeyaknow285 it'll damage the headlight if some too many times
How long does the 303 last for you? It's expensive but I feel that it has a lot of uses for other than just headlights. The headlight issue is always a pain though. Unlike the old glass headlights these need work every half year or so. If the 303 can cut this out significantly it would be worth it in my eyes.
Ok. I watched this and ordered it immediately afterwards. Got it today, tried it and WOW!! Took me 15 minutes all together because they were terrible. Perfectly clear now! You are a superhero for sharing this. Thank you!
Does it last..
@@grant2149 two- three weeks max...
@@olegdiakin400 Ok so its pointless👍🏻
Or until it gets wet@@olegdiakin400
I did this on my 16 year old Nissan Xterra and it worked. I used 3 applications of the Mother's polish and it made a noticeable difference. To help protect against further degradation I then applied 2 coats of Meguier's Keep Clear Headlight Coating, which is supposed to protect against UV for up to a year. We'll see. Thanks for posting this video.
Can you share more info, please? We're your results long lasting after you applied the Meguire's UV protector?
@@cms3052 7 months later and they still look good.
Amazing. Thank you for sharing.
Seems like regular suntan lotion spf 30 that we use on our body would work on headlights since it is uv rays that cause discoloration. Suntan lotion is cheap. What do you think?
@@jimdigio9765 I don't think it would be persistent enough. It washes off in a swimming pool so I'd expect weather to remove it.
Thank you, young man, for this video! I'm a 77-yr-old woman who bought a 2001 Toyota Celica GT last summer just because :) The headlights were in bad shape, so I went looking for a fix, and that's when I found you. I tried your method, and it worked beyond my wildest expectations. My baby's headlights look brand new thanks to you! Thanks, again.
Wow Mrs 77 yr old. You sure are busy on all the DIY videos. Your vehicle must be crystal clean and shiny.
Missuse baking soda and distilled water and buff with micro fiber towel or spend 15 20 dollars on brand name stuffed headlight cleaner is scam I realize this from my detailing friendstore manufactured products to defog plastic knowing they make money on our ignorance homey not anymore 😅I actually paid for a restoration from a shop I regret it is don't be like me.same result cheaper way dit it.
Thank you so much. Took 18years of discoloration off my Ford Focus headlights in no time at all. No going through various grits, toothpaste, buffer pads or expensive kits that aren't very effective. Plus as a bonus, my wife was sooooooooo impressed!
Can you report back on durability? long term effects?
@@jeffj318 Another commenter did it and was very happy even 9 months later said still looked great
Are your headlights still looking good?
@Faisal-lb9rf If apply an UV protection layer after cleaning it will last.
I've tried numerous products to restore headlights but after trying this .... WOW! This this is by far the easiest and product I've used. Works great. It works better than Mother's headlight Restore. Much thanks.
Did this to my '03 Camry. worked great . My wife was impressed at the headlights that actually shined out into the distance. You don't realize how much the dull lenses affect the lights.
I do! Prior to using Mother's Mag, you could drive my grandmother's '97 Chevy Lumina around town with the "high beams" on at night & not get flashed or pulled over. It was terrible!
What is name of cleaner
@@donaldcassidy1592 Mothers Mag and Aluminum Polish
Thx!
How long does this last for?
My wife and I tried this on each of our cars earlier this evening, and it worked perfectly on both vehicles!
Is it still lasting??
So you buffed hers and she buffed yours?
How is your wife at polishing your Keith Johnson? Did you see what I just did there?
@@amishadowbanned6264 🤣 damn I chocked on my drink.
@@amishadowbanned6264 "Oh! Mr. Johnson..."
It works! I saw this video two days ago, I tried it today, and it actually freaking works!!!!!! This is awesome!!! Thank you so much!
This is one of the most useful videos I have ever seen, on TH-cam ! Simple, yet extremely effective. Thanks !!!
Tried every other cream and liquid, so why not.
You just might be able to use it on your mag wheels too!'A lot are coated in a 'protective' clear plastic so you can't even polish them no more. Just watch the corrosion spots grow after each year of stone damage occurs.
Steel wheels are the best. You can grind/sand/prime/ and repair /them in any colour you want, all for a little time and effort. But like with headlights, there is no 'money' in black steel rims.
@@luckyguy600 I have white steel rims on my 83 Nissan Patrol. They look great and as you say I can respray them like new in a day.
I like having a car that's older and PAID OFF.
Me too! I have that same car but it's an '04 very dependable car.
Amen to that! Same here.
Me too, i bought my own car a Hyundai Elantra 2009 for $2159 usd and had 55k miles. It's my first car and It looks like this car a little bit. My baby
2001 Toyota Avalon with over 300,000 miles.
Dave Ramsey disciple
This worked fantastic on my 2010 Corolla!! My mechanic wanted to order new headlight units, not anymore. Thanks so much, you saved me hundreds of dollars, it really works and only cost me $8!
❤❤❤❤❤
Another happy (free) customer! Grabbed it from my garage, got a piece of an old towel, and voila ! In 5 minutes per side had good results! I’m sold! Thanks!
Does it last? I only ask because I did something else that worked for maybe a week, but the lights went back to being filmy real quick.
@@mefrankme No, it won't last. You have to use a 2K clearcoat after polishing it.
@@genericusername1365 Thank you 😊
@@mefrankme The easiest by far is Turtle Headlight Restore. Rub it on like car polish, let dry and buff off. You can see the yellow in the towel. One coat lasts a month, but give it another "coat" a week later and it'll last at least 6 months.
@@lennylipe6434 Thanks Lenny😊
I immediately went outside and tried it on my 2009 Honda Accord and it worked! Thanks for sharing!
By far this is the best solution. I just did this today after watching this. And had the same result. My lights are like new. I did my nephews car as well. 300 bucks in lights saved. Spent 6 bucks on the polish and I have half a jar left.
How’s it holding up now?
@@HollywoodGee666 still fine
Used this for both headlights and what a difference. It worked like a charm. Thanks for the advice and the video.
Question is, how long did it last for before it had to be redone?
It did clear it up a bit but not enough to my liking
You sound happy with the stuff.
I shall endeavor to match your exuberance and buy some 'aluminum wheel polish'
I used it on a 1998 Avalon. It worked great. I just used an old tee shirt and a small amount of polish. Like polishing a piece of silverware. Very easy. Didn’t need much. Thanks!
Any method you use to clean up the plastic around headlights should be followed by the application of a UV protectant. The lens clouds up and turns yellow because the stock UV protectant layer has worn out, and UV rays have caused the plastic to cloud. You can remove the outer layer and they look fine. But, without reapplying a UV protectant, they will quickly cloud up again.
So it builds up again! so what? ...take the ONE MINUTE to polish it again! .........It takes you WAY WAY longer to wash your car dont it?
@@jimw7916 Sure, you can take the (much more than a) minute to redo your headlights every 6 months or so ... or you could take the five minutes and $6 to do the job right and add a UV coating ... and not have to touch your headlights for another 5 ~ 8 years.
It's up to you how you want to spend your time. Most reasonable people would want to do a job once in 5 years rather than 10 times in those same 5 years.
I LOVE THE WAY YOU DO AND SAY THINGS ❤🎉@@mhicaoidh1
this stuff made my lights so clear a deer got mesmerized in the street which made me swerve into a lake. when they pulled my car out of the lake the lights still looked great! thanks dude 👍
Only really works if you don't suck as a driver.
....65 years ago, while aboard ship I discovered that that brightwork polish we used on brass fixtures made a great cleanser and polish for the plastic lenses on our battle lanterns which sometimes got scratched and cloudy.
It’s called “Brasso” and we in the Army used it to polish - BRASS! And many discovered that it was an extremely effective plastic polishing compound. Yes I still use it for that.
Great comments, and a sincere thank you to you both for your service to our great nation!
Sometimes, the YT algorithm gets it right. This video appeared on my recommended feed, and I tried it immediately. I recognized the polish right away since that is what I use for the aluminum wheels on my pickup. It did a great job on my wife's Ford Fusion! I grabbed a microfiber towel and the polish, and I couldn't believe how well this works. Thanks a lot for the info!!
I used the Mothers polish yesterday on my Rav4 and Silverado. Worked absolutely amazing and left the headlights looking new and super smooth, no need to put on anything else. You don't need to use a lot either, just a little dab will be fine. Use clean rags. Thanks for the tip, saved me time and money.
Its been a year, how long did the treatment last?
Just did this on my headlights and amazing results for just a few minutes. You can actually feel the headlights getting smoother as you polish them. I plan on going over them again to get even more out.
how long did the headlight stay clear?
@@alneg6234 thats the next question yes.
Did it last?
It works! I ordered a small pot of Mothers on eBay in the UK and just polished my 2000 Toyota Yaris headlights. Amazing results and I'm super pleased. Thanks for the tip as every year my car fails the MOT and I have to pay the garage to polish the headlights to get it through. It only took me ten minutes with a rag and microfiber cloth with no tools. I highly recommend. Steve in Midhurst, UK
Used this technique this weekend on my '08 and '09 Honda Ridgelines. I used an old sock. Worked like a charm. Quick and easy. I was set on buying new lenses now I don't have to! Thanks Brother. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Watched, bought mother's polish, did it, and I am super happy with the results......👍👍👍👍👍💥💥💥💯💯💯💯💯💯
I used it on my son’s 09 Honda Fit and it worked really well, just as demonstrated. It is so easy I wouldn’t bother with any spray-on protectors, just give it a quick wipe with the paste every six months or so. Thanks a million.
This vid popped up in my recommendations last week. Got the Mother's Mag the other day to use on my grandmother's 1997 Chevy Lumina. It DOES work! Wonderful hack! I paid less than $6 for a jar of this from Walmart. Try this guys👍
Are you pulling my leg? 🤔
Does It Really?
@@superdude7459 it does work but it works better if you use a buffing wheel as well.
@@jduce68
Cool 😎
And Thanks 👍🏽
@@superdude7459 You're welcome🙂
After 3 months, does it still look the same?
Was still kind of hard to believe, until I tried it on my ‘05 truck. Wow !! THANK YOU for this inexpensive, time-saving little miracle.
I've been sharing this with everybody. I learned about it a couple years ago. Works like a champ. Mother's is a good polish for this and aluminum as well. Los Angeles
Had some in my cabinet in the garage so I went right out and tried it. Worked like a charm!! Thanks!!!
Every year, as a Father’s Day gift, i do a complete detail on my husbands 2002 Toyota Sequoia. In previous years, I would clay bar as part of the process but at 76, I skipped this step since I h@ve family coming in a week.
I used this product and my results were astounding. Thank you. When I finished one headlight I was so amazed that I went back to the store where I bought this product to show them the results. They insisted on taking photos of the 2 headlights.
Just used this exact method on two vehicles. WOW! It really worked. I went over them three times and was shocked at the results. Thanks a million!
After 9 months how the headlights are? Still clear?
I tried it today and it did a wonderful job ran in house and told my husband I did it like you said I have 2004 Toyota Highlander it looks 😊
Thank you for sharing.
Did they yellow and dull after some time?
Literally saw this video last night and tried it today on my 2008 MKX headlights and it works! I wiped the lenses with a wet magic eraser first like another comment said until I felt they were clean enough.
Then I dried the lens with a towel and then applied the polish with a dry towel and the difference is dramatic.
Its not perfect but it saved me $600+ replacing the entire headlights. Mine were oxidized and yellow to the point of barely being able to see through it. I would say they are 75-80% improved. Im very happy and excited to see how they perform at night. Thank you for this video!
Bought expensive, ineffective kits before. NEVER AGAIN! I'm older and don't want to waste time cleaning my cars. You just saved me hours of my life with this trick. Thank you!
It works! You can use painter's tape to protect the paint around the headlight.
I have 2003 Honda Accord with very cloudy, yellowed headlights. I used this and they are as clear as new. Great to find something so easy that actually works... and for only 6 bucks!
Great video! This truly works. I used to use the expensive restoration kits that used to take at least an hour using a drill to polish in several stages. This process is much cheaper and faster, done by hand, and I could not tell the difference between the expensive kit and this. After doing this, i wiped down the lights with 303 Protectant to provide some UV protection. I did the process twice and each time, it took out crud. I figure doing this every two or three car wash will keep the headlights clear, as it's very easy and fast to do. Thanks to this video!
Works great, used this on my daughter's 2012 Honda Civic head lamps. It was like night and day. But it didn't last long. Only about 3 or 4 days and they were cloudy again
It WORKED! Thank you so much. I did one quick pass on 'cataracts' headlight on my '16 Honda Accord...and I already see a major improvement. I'll hit it again with even more elbow grease for a 2nd pass. $6 Fix! Thank you, Thank You THANK YOU!
I did my headlights several months back, I did end up wet sanding them and the yellowing still hasn't returned. They are super clear and really bright at night. Best advice I've ever received. Thanks bunches, saved lots of money!
Great🕺🏽
So did you use the Mothers first
and then sand with while on the
Headlights? And which grit did
You happen to use? 🤔
@@superdude7459 I’m thinking she sanded them first I’m going to try it out. I already put the polish on but wasn’t as bright as I hoped so I’m gonna go over with wet sanding then re apply the polish
@@superdude7459 I used 800, 1500 then 2500. Just make sure your headlight stays wet I used a spray bottle and constantly sprayed wherever I was sanding.
Step 1- With the 800 grit I used a circular motion and with very little effort the paper will do exactly what it was made to do automatically. plus you don't want any scratches too deep to buff out later. (You will see the yellowing start to lift off and run down with the water). And once you feel like the entire light has been evenly sanded do a final spray down and wipe with a microfiber cloth. (Your light will look like you have really made a mistake by sanding it but no worries, you got this!) Step 2- Get your 1500 grit and use long strokes either side to side or up and down, I felt side to side was more comfortable. Remember always keep your paper and the light wet at all times. Same as before, once you have evenly sanded it spray it down really well and wipe with our microfiber cloth.
Step 3- The 2500 grit will clarify the light to almost perfect clarity and you want to make sure you take your time and smooth out the first two steps and trust me you will see a huge difference and you shouldn't have any issue seeing exactly where you need to tidy it up. Lastly same as before give it a good spray down, wipe with your microfiber Cloth.
Step 4- I used a small maybe guarter size amount of Mother's and rubbed it over the entire light, I allowed it a minute or two to "soak in" then with a dry microfiber cloth I wiped it off in a circular motion. I did this step twice, mine were in pretty bad shape. But wow, the difference will shock you. And the best part is the yellowing still has not returned and they have been exposed to snow, rain, direct sun you name it. I even did it for my ex mother in law and she too was very surprised with the results.
I hope this helps you out, I apologize for the late response I have been moving and figured I would check my messages before I head off to work. So good luck and I hope your headlights are as bright as the day is long!
Victoria
I just did this on my paid-off 2000 Windstar van. WOW. You are right-on. The lights never looked so good. I do a lot of nite driving and this will help immensely. I already told five other people. Simple, easy, and it works. Thanks for taking the time to post this. Even after nearly a year, it is still helping people. Good job.
Get the LED replacement lights from Advance. You'll never know the difference from your car to a new car with those lights from the factory
Did they yellow or fade over time?
@@MemphisMojo15snah
@@brandonbell5357 yeah
they will for sure@@alcopower5710
Thank you for showing the product at the end in the corner, hardly any TH-camrs do this. Thank you!
This stuff worked great I could clearly see the Big oak tree I smashed into with no problem
Hey it’s not the lights it’s your glasses “PUT THEM ON” 😂😂😂😂😂 they do help you 👍👍
Lynyrd Skynyrd
lol
that made my day thank you
😆😆😆
Use damped baking soda and you’ll get the same results. Work it in straight lines (not circular). Rinse and dry the lens, then coat lens with car wax and buff off. 2 cents worth of baking soda.
I do this with toothpaste that has baking soda in it. Works good too
Been using baking soda for years. Once the lid has been removed a few time, and the dampness has got to it, the soda looses its power for baking. That's what I retain for the purpose, instead of throwing it out, so it's free.
Thx for putting in your “2 cents” , I’ll try it
That works too but it takes too much time. The mag polish and and a battery operated polisher buffer is faster do once 5 minutes per headlight and second application 2 days later and you'll have practically new headlights again a total of 20 minutes or less, it takes way too much time with the baking soda and even those kits that they sell at Walmart too much time consuming.
@@peterrhodes5663 Baking soda is 60 percent salt. Make sure you get it all off, afterwards...don't want rust.
Hello , I have this product and it does work. However, a lemon cut in half with baking soda is the best product out there.
I had great results with this. I previously purchased one of those kits to restore the headlights - it did not do much. I followed this up with some headlight sealer and the headlights are nearly good as new. Thanks for posting!!!
Can you report back on durability? long term effects?
No one ever does @@Faisal-lb9rf
That was Awesome!!!! I am a senior and this is so much easier than the sandpaper method.....I would recommend this to seniors because it is so much easier and you would probably get more subscribers, just a suggestion.
A senior in high school no doubt..😏 I too am a senior and it gets harder and harder to see at night. This stuff will surely help.
@@macsloan58 a what in what 🤣🤣🤣
I would still use a clear coat UV spray paint after .
Just the right video. I got some mothers already! Everyone else used all kinds of sand papers and products .... I wonder if a clear anti uv coat would also be a good measure?
Thank you! You saved me almost $1,000 dollars! I have a Lexus 460 ls and I was just going to replace bit headlamps! I went and bought it and you’re right! About 7 mins each light and Bam! Clear again! I wish I could upload pictures. This stuff is amazing!
What about when it rains? Does it last?
good show
It's exactly what I'm looking for to use on my LS. How long does it last before it starts going dull again?
Can you report back on durability? long term effects?
@@reasy1978 just get some uv ray protector from the part store and re apply about every 3 months and it'll keep them nice and clear
That’s unbelievable how well that worked. I even have some on hand. I used it on my motorcycle wheels. You just saved me a whole lot of work and expense. Thanks for a great video.
Thank you very much dear SP Tuning, did it just like you have demonstrated with the same polish. Took out all the 18 year old layer of oxidation stuck on the headlight of our used & neglected Acura TSX. You are simply wonderful dear sir!
Been using Mothers on headlights for years, quick and easy. A little more elbow grease with a rag than with a polisher but both work great. I expect any metal polish paste would work. Also works on the paint around the headlight. 🙂
@@guitarman_3693 Glad to help. The Mother's compound is a little different than you describe, it is strictly micro abrasives in a paste, no muriatic acid. Also about aluminum oxidation, it happens in seconds so that most of the time when you observe it there is already an oxide layer on it, this is sort of like corrosion preventing more corrosion. Aluminum is unique in that to the eye it looks clean and bright but there is an oxide layer, even on polished aluminum. It's a great unique metallurgy of aluminum. Muriatic acid is quick and easy but it requires very thorough rinsing to stop any micro reaction from continuing and weakening the metal. Basically needs pressure washing. Long term it can weaken the metal and cause failure and is generally not recommended for critical applications like in aerospace. In HVAC continued use could result in eventual need for system replacement but that could be a good thing for other reasons.
I previously had used a headlight cleaner from Meguiar’s and it took a lot of rubbing. Even then, the results were less than desirable. I already had some of this for my custom wheels so why not try it. The results are fantastic and takes a lot less buffing! Thanks for sharing your discovery. Mother’s should put this in a different container and market it a headlight cleaner!
nobody listened to me 30 YEARS AGO
Same shit in a different bottle/container that's a Bowdens Own trick right there lol
Is It Better Than Meguiar’s PlastX???
@@ronaldhuff635 can you elaborate on this statement?
I own a motorcycle and my truck has nickel w/chrome. I use “Mothers” polish but a felt disc. I bought this at $1.89 a jar of the same size but 4 years ago. Now it’s $6.25 and crazy. I cheaper at home box stores. Scratches in glass like wiper, felt polishing pad (3.5” rotolock) was $1.90 each but use cerium oxide mixed with water to peanut butter thickness and keep heat down moving, but removes a visible light scratch. Cheaper than windshield!
DK, ASE Master, retired.
My headlights were in the same condition. I got a tub of this Mother's polish and did the hand polish thing like he did here. It did work, but not quite as well, and definitely not in a couple of minutes. Eventually, they fogged back up, so I did it again. This time, though, I picked up a conical buffing wheel and chucked it into my drill and went at it. Worked a lot better (more so on the first side than the second), but again, it took a lot longer, even with the mechanical assist; about 90 minutes for both sides.
Long story short, yes, you can restore headlight covers with Mother's Mag & Aluminum Polish.
This will probably won't stop the headlights from oxidizing again in a few months, but it's so simple, fast and cheap that I wouldn't mind doing it 2-3 times a year to keep the headlights looking shiny. Beats the heck out of the alternative methods, which are much more time consuming and often need tools that most people don't have. Thanks for this useful tip!
SammyT, use Maguires headlight sealer once a year and you will not get oxidizing or yellowing. After polishing, just spray it on and polish it off.
@@filster1934 Cool, thanks for the tip!
Whats the best way/right way to restore them that last?
@@dannygarcia8783 u can buy a kit, it requires sanding…. Sylvania and 3 m are best… search on you tube for instructions…. Key is to protect lenses after with UV protectant every year
@@karengrant3468 The mothers works just as good and takes a lot less time
After watching this video, I found my jar of the same product and tried it on my 2003 VW's headlights and achieved the same results just as quickly. Thanks!
Great money saving tip for keeping reliable vehicles look nice! May your kind prosper in the difficult days ahead.
yes sir, another beer for this gentleman!!
Finally someone made a video of this...ive been using aluminum polish on headlights for years...its so easy and works every time. If you have a polisher, you can use it on a buffing pad too. Youll have them looking like the day you got the car...but i recommend putting a coating on after you clean it. Otherwise itll just get dirty again very quickly.
This stuff is great! I have been using this method for a couple years. I do use a cone polishing wheel attached too my drill, which will take this up a notch, leaving the lenses crystal clear. Follow up with a coating of 303 UV Protectant and you'll get a good year out of it. This method is so easy and cheap, if you have to do a repeat application, it's still worth it.
303 UV Protectant, auto supply store?
@@davidweeks9144 Yes. I buy it at Auto Zone or Advanced Auto.
If you had to do it every year, it wouldn’t be a problem for the housing would it? I’m pretty excited to do this for my truck. I have a bottle of 303 in the garage right now. What about new headlights? Could you apply 303 to keep them from ever needing a polish? How often would you need to do this? Sorry for all the questions, but you seem like the guy with the answers!
@@digitalgoonie I've never seen any issues with this method. I have done my neighbors car several times and they look great. As far as using 303 on new headlights, it is a UV protectant, so it should help preserve the original clear coat.
@@macgto how often do you recommend applying 303? Thanks
This video really helped me, thank you. I had done the sanding with 400, 600 & 1500. But I could not figure out why the headlights on my ‘05 were not clear. Ran down and got some Mother’s polish and that did it! They look new now!
You need to use grit sandpaper 2000 than 3000 than 5000....You will never get a smooth NEW LIKE HEADLIGHT if you only stopped at grit 1500....You need to use Polishing compound after you finish using grit 5000....
@@dorkyrouge3372 could you use Mother's instead of polishing compound?
@@deepdude4719 I actually just use the turtle wax finishing compound....doesnt really matter what compound you use...its your persistansy in sanding your headlight to a smooth finish....really make sure you only go in one direction....
Just did this ten minutes ago on my 2008 Saturn vue and it works. Took about five minutes. Thanks for sharing.
This stuff works great. I've cleared a few headlights with it in addition to tailpipes, rims, and chrome pieces which it was intended for. I'd be sure to hit the lights with at least some wax if you have it laying around, if not a more permanent UV protectant.
This worked for both of my cars! I can't believe the difference and how fast it cleaned up! Thanks!! Less than $6 at Walmart.
How does it look now? Did it last?
@@squirtlesmells8174 it's still pretty clear. However, I'll probably have to reclean it again. It's ok. The cleaner is cheap. As long as it keeps it clean it's all good.
Did you apply wax or any coating after?@@RodT87
Thanks, worked like a charm on my 2003 Suby Impreza Sport wagon with plenty left over to share with my friend with an 03 Suby Outback.
I'm so happy that I saw this video. I went out and brought "Mother's" and did my headlights yesterday. I did them exactly as the video suggested and now they look like new. Thank you for doing the Video, saved me a lot of money and only took 3 to 4 minutes. Again Thanks!!
Is it still in the same condition?
@@niceguyeddie Yes, They still look very good. Well worth the $6.00 I paid for Mother"s!!
do they still look good?
@@rickb.5434 After all this time they still look very good!!
@@mik19mazz where did u buy the paste ???
Living in CA the strong sun and heat destroys plastic headlights after several years. I tried this on my 2008 Lexus headlights and did two passes with it. BIG improvement! Not totally clear as mine were etched and yellowed badly but amazingly better. Went to wet sanding with 2000 grit sandpaper and another pass and they are good as new. To make it last a long time (years) apply a few coats of clear coat (automotive with UV protection).
The wheel polish is a fine-grit polish. If the damage is deeper, you need something rougher (such as paint rubbing compound, or fine-grit sandpaper); then the wheel, or paint polishing compound. There are lots of choices.
I got mine at Walmart for $5.99. I used the exact same method on my wife's Impala. We were both blown away by the like new results.
I watched your video yesterday 14/02/22! I have a 1997 Ford F-350 all original and yes the lenses were as yellow as a daisy! I went head and purchased the Mothers product that you showed and couldn’t believe the results! I took it an extra step by applying it three times , circular, side to side, forty five each way and buffed them ! I even did the rear tail lights and was so happy with the results! Thank you 🙏 so much ! I’ve past your video on to several friends and family! Cheers 👍🇨🇦
Please give an update in a couple of weeks.
I just did this today and 😳 I couldn’t believe it actually worked . They look absolutely beautiful now
4 months later, is it still as clear?
@@andrewsoupene1028 lol
I literally just did this to my car and it worked😮😱😁‼️
While wiping off if you see dull spots you have to keep applying layers until they're gone either with elbow 💪🏾grease or a buffer on a low setting as it's clearly visible seeing the yellow tint rub off.
I followed up with Nu Finish also for extra added shine.
Works amazing !!! In just 5 minutes I have brand new headlines . Thanks for the tip.
I first had doubts, but for $5, I gave it a try. I’m so sorry I doubted you! This stuff worked like a charm!
I used this on my 05 Camry headlights 2 years ago, and they looked great. Now they are fading again, and need redone. I used a drill with a buffing wheel.
That looks impressive and I'm sure the polish is polishing the surface, but the polish may contain petroleum distillates which could fill in the rough surface of the headlight lens and make it appear perfectly clear. I would like to see a follow-up where you polish a faded lens, then afterwards wash several times with dawn dishwashing liquid and water to remove any possible petroleum distillates. Then dry and see if the surface still looks good.
Bingo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I tried this after watching this video and the Results is AMAZING! It freaking works, period! Thank you! 💯💯👍👍😁😁
Just ordered a can! Stoked to use this for my 05 4Runner. She's been good to me and I'm trying to bring her back to life slowly!
You need to apply a UV protectant spray to protect the exposed plastic. A light buff with the polish and another application of the protectant is all that’s needed annually. If you live in a extremely sunny environment, wash off and dry the headlight and reapply the protectant every other month.
what's the name of a good UV protectant spray? thank you.
It will last longer but still will not work.
Plexus
Keep in mind , there's nothing wrong about caring about that car , the quality that car has makes me care allot about that car , 😁😁
Great video ! Thanks !
For real I drive an almost identical Camry and it’s an amazing car
Amen brother “it’s old I don’t really care about it” 🙄 really? i detailed cars to get thru college 80% of my rides throughout my life I’ve bought 2-5 year old used after a lot of depreciation and drove paid off till the wheels fall off
This stuff is pretty good, but if the lights are in really bad shape, wet sanding is what’s really needed. And wet sanding is fairly simple to do just a squirt bottle and some various grades of sandpaper.
I did this with rubbing compound and it even took the scratches out
Rubbing compound?
@@breebear2592 yep
@@breebear2592 of course it is just temporary, but it's fast and easy and highly effective
@@MemphisMojo15s what kind did u use?
@@breebear2592 Turtle Wax Heavy Duty Cleaner. It's in the round green container. Use at own risk 😊
Great tip, and I'm going to try it. That said I usually open my hood when polishing my headlights as it makes it a little easier. Great job!
Great tip! I'm laughing at myself for not thinking of it!
And I’ve been using that mag & alum polish for years. Never suspected it could do that too
The kits that require sanding aren't all that difficult, & they use rubbing compound on top of that, so there's just about the same amount of rubbing the surface. I've tried your way & the sanding method, the WD40 method, & a couple others. The sanding method with rubbing compound has the best final appearance. But here's something more important. If you don't recoat the headlight, your effort will be in vain in 9 months or so. There's a special anti-UV clear plastic coating you spray on that's the key to a long-term repair. I did that to my car's headlights 2 years ago & they still look brand new.
What is the name of the UV coating?
@@mosler302 thank you! I'll grab it and give it a go!
BTW... the original stuff I used is: USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear
It's a 2-component spray gloss in a can, very expensive, which is why I suggested the other one. Plus when you push the button on the can that combines the 2 chemicals, you have to use the entire can within 24 hrs. I got great results with it, so no complaints there, but you end up throwing away the majority of the product, plus it says it's highly toxic.
@@mosler302 that sounds like a part epoxy. I think that's what actual clear coat is. I would try to use that as an experiment on a donor car for free if they have nothing to lose for trying it out. I feel a 2 part spray would be actual clear coat.
@@mosler302 just out of curiosity... what does it go for? I can try it out on my m35 x which has a couple spots where the clear coat is just about done.
really works!! 😯just applied with cloth few minutes wiped it off results were crazy amazing!!!
I had some mother’s that I used for cleaning my stainless handguns and I thought o well I give it a try and damn it worked great 👍
Well slap me twice. 😂👍🏽🕺🏽