How to Remove Headlight Oxidation: Quick Step-by-Step Guide
Updated: Jul 31
You'll Need
Wet sandpaper (approx. 600, 1000, and 2000 grits)
Spray bottle filled with water OR a hose
Masking tape
Clean cloths or paper towels
Instructions
Extra effort and attention to detail will yield the best results.
Step 1: Prepare Surfaces
Clean headlights to remove surface dirt and grime.
If helpful, open the hood.
Protect surrounding paint and trim by masking around headlights.
Step 2: Remove Oxidation
NOTE: Keep your headlight and sandpaper wet while sanding to reduce friction, and rinse away excess residue to check your progress.
Start with the coarsest sandpaper (approx. 600 grit)
Thoroughly wet the sandpaper and headlight lens.
Using firm pressure, sand in a horizontal motion for approx 5 minutes.
The oxidation residue will appear as a brownish cloudy liquid; rinse off and continue sanding until the residue becomes clearer and the entire lens feels smooth to the touch.
Switch to the second coarsest sandpaper (approx. 1000 grit)
Wet the lens and sandpaper again.
Firmly sand in a vertical motion for 3 to 5 minutes.
Add water as necessary to keep the lens and pad wet and clean.
Finish with the finest sandpaper (approx. 1500-2000 grit)
Firmly sand in a horizontal motion for approximately 3 minutes, keeping the lens and sandpaper wet.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
Once Step 2 is complete and you are satisfied with your results, thoroughly rinse the headlights with water to wash off any remaining debris.
Wipe them with a clean cloth and let them dry completely.
Your headlights should now have a uniformly clouded/frosted appearance. Continue with Step 2 if areas are clear or shiny.
Step 4: Apply a UV Headlight Coating
Need a headlight coating with UV protection? Learn more about Detour's 1-Step Headlight Restoration Spray.
