top of page
Search

How to Remove An Old Headlight Coating

  • Writer: Roland Lupka
    Roland Lupka
  • Mar 5
  • 2 min read

Headlight coatings are designed to protect your headlights from UV damage, oxidation, and road wear. However, you may want to remove the old layer, whether to refresh your headlights, reapply a new coating, or simply restore them to a clear finish.


These are two effective ways to remove a headlight coating. The right method depends on how strong the coating has become due to curing and how much effort you want to put into the process.


Method 1 (Least Aggressive): Isopropyl Alcohol & Microfiber Cloth

For thinner or newly applied coatings, you can try removing the layer using isopropyl alcohol:

  1. Dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol.

  2. Firmly rub the surface of the headlight.

  3. Continue working until the coating begins to lift off.


Note: This method may require some elbow grease or may not work at all depending on the situation.


Wet sanding vehicle headlight to remove coating

Method 2 (Most Effective): Wet Sanding

If the alcohol method doesn’t fully remove the coating, wet sanding provides a more reliable solution:


You'll need: Wet sandpaper (grits 600, 1350, and 2250), a hose or spray bottle with water, and cloths. Always keep the sandpaper and headlight wet while sanding.


  1. Start with the 600-grit sandpaper, firmly sand the surface of the headlight until the coating is fully removed and the headlight surface has a uniform hazy appearance.

  2. Progress through the finer grits for a smoother finish: 600 → 1350 → 2250.

  3. When finished, the headlight should have a uniform hazy appearance. To see if the coating is fully removed, thoroughly wetting the lens with water with show what the headlight will look like once coated again. Continue sanding until you're satisfied with the results.


After Removal

Once the old coating is removed, it’s important to protect your headlights again. Leaving headlights unprotected will cause them to quickly oxidize and yellow again.


For long-lasting clarity, consider using Detour's 1-Step Headlight Restoration Spray, an industrial-grade UV protective coating designed to restore and protect headlights with ease and maximum protection.



 
 
bottom of page