Its been 5 years my jeep is finally back yellow lasted so long cant thank u enough gna sell it after i do this magic to its headlights again at 290000 miles itll go for 2300 bucks 😊
@@chrisfixAre u able to drive the car while waiting the 24 hrs for the clear coat to dry? I wouldn’t be able to let the car sit for 24 hrs straight, would it still come out the same if i just wet sand and wax after the 24 hrs?
I did this five years ago and it’s starting yellowing again. I don’t have any clear coat left so I just waxed it after wet sanding with 1500 and 5000 grit. Looks great
Chris, can't thank you enough for your videos. I am 67 yrs. old and a widow so I have to do things on a limited income. Thanks for explaining why things are done and in easy instructions to follow. You are my go to guy for my 1997 Dodge Ram 4x4.
10 yrs ago i didn't know how to locate an alternator, a caliper bolt, a coil pack.....i knew almost zero about cars, yet i drove them well. 10yrs later I've done over 30 plus brake jobs, replaced ac parts, fixed heating system, modified exhausts, installed several suspension upgrades, upgraded brakes to brembo calipers, replaced several wheel hubs, painted 2 cars, installed racing seats, minor transmission repairs, flipped a few cars, helped several random strangers with minor repairs...this faceless dude who says "soapy woder" gave me the confidence to entire the world of DIY...saving myself 1000s over the years. I remember when he was at 300k subs. You're a boy now. You've helped millions. Thanks a million Chris!
I literally just did this yesterday to the headlights of my 2009 MKS, and it came out PERFECTLY. Thet dealership wanted $800 for EACH new headlight!! ChrisFix, you're a godsend 🙇 Much Thanks to you
He’s an alien and genius. Me, We’ve learned so much from his channel and DIY fix the things with the reasonable cost ever. Respect to Chris-fix, forever! And say no more dealerships! Yeah... xD
Last Tuesday my daughter and I attempted to refurbish the headlights on her 2007 Camry. We followed your technique step by step. While the wet sanding had us a bit worried at the beginning, the end result was brilliant. Thanks so much for sharing this adventure and I want to let you know that our “High Five” upon completion felt soooo good!
That's great! About to do my 07 Camry as well. Did you use the Meguiar's G12310 PlastX Clear Plastic Cleaner & Polish, 10 Fluid Ounces he recommends? Not sure how that step works.
XZCRZYKILLER I've not done it yet so I can't say. Will try and update once I do. But for my understanding it should be used after the clear coat spray. It's supposed to get the orange peel off which I guess is the flakiness in the clear coat.
For everyone else, go watch any other headlight restoration "how to" video. This one has dated information, you don't leave the headlight rough so the clear coat can "stick" lol. The smoother it is the better it will look.
@@mimos7214 Van is still on the road & the lights still look clear. There is a slight haze in one spot on the "top" of the lens, but overall, it's still looking good! The fog lights were pitted before & are still pitted, but clear, although they don't get much sunlight exposure.
I’ve done this twice, probably 4 years apart, on my 2004 4Runner. An hour of work to make it look way better and brighter/safer lighting. Thanks, Chris, this works so well!
I tried a number of products to get the headlights on an older car we have clear again... with no success. They always clouded up again. We just decided not to drive it at night anymore and then I found your video and thought it was worth a shot. My 15 year old took one headlight and I did the other. It was quality time for us both and fun at the same time. The results were AMAZING! We were just hoping it would stay that way. BTW, I waited until 6 months elapsed before commenting and I'm happy to say this process works... permanently!! Thanks for posting this video and for instructions which were very easy to follow. My headlights are bright again and it didn't cost an arm and a leg. Outstanding!
I did this to two vehicles recently. The price to replace the set of headlights was $350, this made the headlights look amazing for less than $20. Thank you sir!
Did this actually work? I’m extremely nervous to do this... how long will this also last? I don’t get how using sandpaper which scratches it is a good think and then somehow magically the clear coat does it lol... just hard to believe.
Have you used plastic primer before spraying the clear coat layers? The product that Chris used says that it bonds on plastic, mine doesn't and I'm scared it may look like crap...
I've been on the internet since the early 90's and this is the best instructional I've ever seen, heard or read. Nicely done. I had exactly zero questions after watching this instructional. Just saved me 400 dollars.
Hey- I did this 5 years ago, and now they're starting to fog up again. Actually I'm happy with the results, I came back as a refresher before I do it again- I even still have all the materials. Thanks!
Yes, that is about what you can expect. Consider the superior products that are applied from factory supplied headlights. They go yellow. Nothing lasts forever and all finishes are but temporary, but it is better than just buffing. A good 2K clear spray might be a better option as it is a catalyzed finish, but it is expensive and you must wear a proper respirator and not a dust mask when shooting it. Maybe get another year or two out of the finish over the airdry non cat finish.
Thank you so much for this video!!!! It’s Currently July 2024. My old 2007 Yukon headlights were foggy and yellow. I found this video when I was googling how to fix the headlights and figured worse case I would just have to get new headlights. I bought everything at Walmart the other day and just finished the clear coat. I’m so proud of my work I texted videos and before and after photos to my family. I’m a single mom and I’m so thankful you for your step by step tutorial that anyone can do. 💜
I De-fogged the headlights on my wife's 2013 Corolla yesterday and it came out great! More importantly, the lights on my Caravans, done years ago, are still looking great! Thanks, Chris!
I told my Mum during lockdown I was going to sand the headlights and polish them on her 2005 MK5 Golf she said whatever and was not interested I was bored and just gave myself the task. When she next drove the car in the dark she was shocked and told me she keeps trying to turn off the full beam. She was very pleaseantly suprised with what the work did.
A random guy at my local salvage yard told me to take these exact steps to permanently clear up my headlights and it works just as in this video. Great step by step how to.
@@airrolmedestomas Don't be scared of that you will likely be fine and using sandpaper even with sub 1000 grit will not cause irreversible damage. As long as you polish the lights up well after sanding them they will last good.
@@kimberchick8527 He inspired me to change my own headlights, tail light, interior light, and that AC filter that's under the hood (I already knew how to replace the cabin one). I even used this headlight recovery trick on the faded solar lights around my property. ChrisFix is truly my hero!
Ive done this using the same clear coat and it all was in spider webs after 10 minutes. Did three coats and that did not help a single but. Then talked to a professional, they said need a plastic adhesion promoter, used that (doing everything form scratch again), this time the clear coat did not have the spider web, but the headlights are hazy and dont look "amazing". Now when i rewatch the video i realize that his headlights are hazy as well, it is just his comments that made me think they did look great.
Hey Chris, the thing that I love most about your channel is that even though this video is like what, 4 years old, you are still replying to people’s new comments. That shows commitment and it also means you care. Keep up the good work buddy! People care about your videos! (Especially me)
Matt Rivera or may be just it's because he likes reading a bunch of comments (like a lot of normal people do) and sometimes replies them just for fun. I'm pretty sure he's making this videos for fun too, so I bet he enjoys reading critiques and compliments about him.
Trey to add to your comment when it comes to a good video production "content is king" and when it is good information (like Chris presents) it will be timeless. In other words have a long shelf life out there. Take this subject matter for example the headlight lenses used to be made out of glass and if they still were we would not be having this discussion. But they were limited to a round or rectangular shapes. When the plastic design came out, all these new sleek molded designs started happening. Removing the headlight from just being stuck in the grill to actually evolving and incorporating the lenses aerodynamically into the body design and the fender. With awesome flexibility and creativity came one chink in the armor! The plastic surface is softer and more porous then glass and it is not impervious to UV or the sun damage as the glass lenses were. So I think Chris's choices for topics I feel come from our asking questions about current timely issues that we are currently experiencing.....and one of them is our plastic headlight assembly's are failing due to time and the elements. Sorry that was more then 2 cents worth but Chris you have inspired this old dog to possibly jump ship from my current mundane career of working for the man and starting my ownmobile detail business.!
Thank you Chris. My 2008 MDX failed inspection due to yellowed/hazy headlights. Less than $50 at an auto parts store, and 30 minutes of my time, my headlights look brand new. Can't wait for 24 hours to do one more wet sand and then wax. You are a real treasure.
I did this to my Mums cars it somehow had a valid MOT with the lights only being advisory and they were very far gone arguably too far gone I restored them but could only remove about 90% of the yellowing and haze I did this in 2020 whilst bored in lockdown and she was highly impressed with the headlight performance afterwards and kept trying to turn off the full beams due to the new levels of brightness. 3 years later the restoration is still holding up very well too. I used 5000 grit and 7000 grit sandpaper followed by T cut polish and turtle wax to restore them I imagine if I used better equipment I would have done even better.
Just tried this on my old Toyota Corolla. The lights were so hazy that I didn’t feel comfortable driving at night as the lights had gotten so dim. This method worked perfectly ! They turned out so nice. Thank you so much for this video.
+Phillip Paul, I cannot reply to your comment for some reason so I hope you see this. You do not want to buff the lens smooth. You want to have scratches and follow the 400-600-2000 exactly like in this video. The 600 grit puts deep enough scratches into the surface of the lens while the 2000 light sand, cuts any surface roughness off. This allows for the clear coat to adhere properly so it wont peel in a year. If you make it smooth, the clear coat wont grab onto anything and it will peel. You can also have a problem with the paint running.
@@Stedemn Long response-bear with me. When you spray the clear, you're going to move the can from side to side. When you make a pass with the can, start a foot or so before the spray pattern reaches the light. Press the button and make your pass across the light. Don't release the button till you are past the lens. This keeps the spray pattern consistent on the surface of the light. Consistent pattern=consistent coverage.
Star Light, with as many subscribers as Chris has, it is surprising that he'd even be able to reply. I can imagine he could be getting a thousand comments a month where a reply to the question/comment was asked, especially since Chris has such great videos and in my opinion, one of the most Professional Repair videos to watch on UA-cam. He gets to the point without a bunch of ''Bl-Bla-Bla mixed into the video. Some mechanics add so much talk during the repair, I've often ended up feeling like I shouldn't even attempt even doing the repair lol. Chris, if you read this, You Totally Rock Man & thanks agin for another Awesome Video.... MD..........
Chris, you are the man. You've given me the confidence to try so many of these fixes that I never have before. You're an amazing teacher and awesome film maker. Thank you for all that you do.
I did the headlights on my Mums car in 2020 (Had lots of time in lockdown) they were arguably too far gone and far worse than the ones in this video, I used his methods and was able to remove all the haze from the lights but they had also yellowed badly too but I only managed to remove 85-90% of the yellowing. However 3 years on from the work I did they still hold up and for around 100-200 dark miles until my Mum got used to the headlights being brighter she kept trying to turn off the full beam that wasn't on. This was a car she had bought cheap used for £600 so its pretty crap however I completely transformed the lights.
Did this process today on some 7 year old headlights that were plain awful. I messed up a little on the 2nd coat and had to restart but the end result, following Chris' step by step instructions, gave me brand new looking headlights. I can actually see at night now.
@topixartist when I applied the 2nd top coat, I touched it with a towel, and it bunched up and crackled. So yes, I sanded it back down with sand paper and restarted the whole process
@@moonlighshinobiI just botched my clear coat as well. Tried sanding it down and I think I did it too soon or not enough sanding. Trying some varsol (paint remover) now and will update you if that gets rid of the crackle. Update- varsol didn't do much...sanding is the way to get the crackle to disappear. Lots of sanding lol
This was helpful, here's the summary: 1. Put masking tape all the way around both headlights. Don’t leave paint around lights showing. 2. Spray headlight and 400-grit sandpaper with lots of water. 3. While keeping surface wet the whole time, use sandpaper to swirl in circular motion. Don’t push too hard. - Milky colour will run, which is fine. - Make sure grooves are done around the edges 4. Finish by sanding horizontally. Include grooves. 5. Do steps 3-4 with 600-grit sandpaper. Slightly more pressure than before. 6. Use water and paper towel to wipe off the headlight. 7. Do steps 3-4 with 2000-grit sandpaper. Not too much pressure. 8. Repeat step 6. 9. Use alcohol on paper towel to clean it off. Leave to dry. 10. Use garbage bag to cover the front of the car around the headlights. Tape it down to the car nice and tight. 11. Push down bag over headlight. Lift up slightly, then cut a hole around the edge of the headlight. It can be slightly bigger, but not bigger than the masking tape. 12. Tape the inside of the headlight hole tape to garbage bag. 13. Repeat step 9. Do not touch from this point on. 14. Once dried, use light and fast sprays of clear coat over the headlight. Cover lightly twice: up to down, down to up. 15. Let dry for 5 minutes. 16. Repeat step 14. Make sure grooves are sprayed too. 17. Let dry for 5 minutes. 18. Repeat step 14. 19. Let it dry for at least 24 hours. More is better, up to 7 days. Do not drive car during this time. 20. Remove garbage bag cover, but not original masking tape around headlight. 21. Do wet sand to remove orange peel: 2000-3000-grit wet sand in the same manner as steps 3-4. Can repeat more if needed while increasing in fineness. 22. Dry. 23. Use car wax on microfiber towel and swirl it around. 24. Leave on until it hazes. Once it does, buff it out (wipe using clean buffer). 25. Remove rest of tape.
@@AlexSchwartzATV I would wet sand every time, especially on plastic. The water helps avoid build up of material (in the sandpaper) that is coming off the headlamp and makes the sanding much more consistent over the entire surface.
Just did this yesterday and I cannot believe how good my headlight looks! If you are having any doubts trust me, if you actually follow the steps you should be fine! Thanks ChrisFix!!!
Welp.. Im back after watching this video 9 years ago. I tried this method on an old 2001 Mercedes c320's headlights. I ended up selling the car but the headlights looked clear even after 6 years of doing this! Thanks again Chris!!
I have done this technique one three different cars and it has worked really well. The first one I did three years ago and now, the clear coat is starting to yellow and come off. I love this channel and think Chris is awesome but this technique is definitely NOT permanent. It’s by far the most effective and longest lasting treatment under buying a brand new headlight. I’ve used other DIY techniques and even rainx (etc) kits but nothing worked as well. Another great thing about this is that you will have that can of clear coat for every touch up you’ll need in the future. You use such a small fraction of it.
Chris, I appreciate the time and effort you put into make these video's available to your viewers. They are always very informative, clear, concise and to the point. Because of your expertise and the way you present your video's, you make it look easy and inspire novice like myself to give it a try. Keep up the good work, it is much appreciated!
Thank you so much!! Saved me $80. Now when I was applying the clear coat, I turned all the headlights to heat up while applying the clear coat, which prevented the orange peel
This channel is not only one of my top 3, as far as usefulness goes I could probably say Chris is my number one favorite creator on all of UA-cam! This guy is genuinely a national treasure! Much of this stuff, I already know, but all of it includes subtle details That can save every day people looking to improve the quality of their lives thousands of dollars. Please don't ever stop doing what you're doing or the way that you're doing it. You have the perfect theme, subject matter, & layout. Nothing you're doing will ever get old, or fall out of favor. I've been following you for a very long time & the day you stop making UA-cam videos, I'll know this platform Is obsolete.
I just did this on my 350z, WOW what a difference. Small tip is when you move on to the 2k grit, sand until it seems clear while youre sanding, I.E. you dont see much haze while its wet. Learned that the hard way.
Black Titan I would re-sand it. I didn't sand my right one enough with the 2k grit the first time so I went over it again with the 400 then 600 then spent a lot of time on the 2k. After re doing it the light looks great. I would re do
Holy shit fam dude your a blessing like fr some guy tried to get to pay him $30 for cleaning my headlight one for $7 I doubt they wear permanent this is just a life saver thank you . I'm on your notification squad now
Just done this to a older car that I seriously thought I was gonna have to buy new headlight assembly and decided to try this, after doing this it literally looks like I put new headlight assemblies in, what a difference this made, great video and thanks for sharing
Amazing video, I watched and did this 1 year ago and forgot to comment lol but: I was skeptical about using clear coat paint, folks said it's only a temporary fix and it will yellow again within 6 months. But, after a year the headlight is still looking great. No yellowing or chipping. Thanks a lot Chris!
Ladies, sand thoroughly. Chris makes it look easy. My first headlight I had to resand and repaint because I didn't get down to the plastic. It crackled. Now that I have sanded properly the job is beautiful on my 2003 Avalon. Thanks Chris!!!
I just did mine, and the clear coat looks like it’s cracked. I spent an hour sanding but I don’t know what to do. Once your headlights also looked cracked, how exactly did you sand it in what order? 600 the. 2,000 and then spray coat again?
You are truly the best! I am a single 60 year old female who has never had enough money for repairs of any kind or anyone to ever help me. I have cried so many times about troubles that have happened with my vehicles thinking now what? I can't do that as in different repairs ...but then each time I found you except one issue recently. You have always had such clear verbally and visually videos. You have saved me so much money! And you gave me a pride or great feeling when I was done saying ... Wow I did it myself! The one thing I did not find from you that I needed help with was for a 2005 Buick rainier specifically how to get the washer fluid reservoir out and check to see where fluid is pouring out from. In my case it was a crack in the base of the rear fluid pump. Car shop said they checked it out and there was a huge hole or maybe they said crack and wanted est. Of $400!! There was neither! My lights tho had some kind of vinyl cover over them that was peeling off and then once I just pulled all the film off .... my headlights were ruined and I could not see clearly out of them and nothing ever worked that I tried but I kept making them worse. So thank you so much again!!
Chris your instructional video really gave me the confidence to work on my dirty old Mazda 3 lights. It only took about 2 foo fighter albums and they turned out beautifully!!!
My wife's car is a Mazda 3, and the headlights look terrible. I was considering doing this, and hearing you had success helps me get up the nerve to try it. Thanks!
I'm a middle school teacher and I just wanted to compliment you on the quality of this video as a teacher. You explain background concepts, the purpose of each tool and how you model how to do each step clearly and correctly, I loved it both as a teacher and someone who needs to prepare a car scratch.
I just tried this on my 2014 Kia Soul this morning and it works! I was afraid to commit to the high gloss so I used wax like another video showed. But now that I see that I actually will work for me next time I will sand it down a little bit better and use the gloss. Thanks Chris! You are very trustworthy source for this near 60-year-old woman
I finally decided to do this, and it worked awesome My truck's headlights were super cloudy, but now they look almost brand new! Definitely one of my favorite channels! Thanks man!
I did this like 9 years ago when this video was new posted on my 2002 VW Jetta 1.8T and it worked like a goddamned charm. Here I am in 2023, 2 vehicles later (2014 Dodge Avenger, and now on my 2021 Chevy Colorado Z71) and I have a wife and kids and a home (I was like 22 when I did this with the Jetta) and my wife's 2016 Nissan Rogue headlamps are so foggy that it's literally dimming the lights at night when she drives. Was looking back trying to find this video because I remembered how great it worked on the Jetta almost a decade ago and boom baby! Found it. Thanks my friend. Headed to the hardware store tomorrow after work for supplies and will be working on my wife's Rogue this weekend.
Wow thanks so much Chris! Just did this on my mk1 Audi TT and the results are totally astonishing. I tried several methods over a few weeks and this was hands down the best. Nothing else comes close. Personally I removed headlights and made a little spray booth :)
I’ve tried several different headlight restoration kits and none of them gave me good results. I stumbled across this video and decided to give it a try, and this method works really well.
Love this dude, so nice to hear the passion and enthusiasm in his voice in present day videos; sounded a little tired in this one. Keep it up Chris, you're so many peoples' hero with the work you do!
I just did my 2010 CRV and 2000 Explorer using this process. Works great and is easy to do. Beats the expensive Sylvania, Mothers and other kit methods out there today. Thanks Chris!
As someone that loves to do their own upkeep on everything they own, keeping it as pristine as possible-- I'm so incredibly grateful for this video! Thank you so much! You definitely just saved me hundreds of dollars, my girl is getting up there in age!
I followed these steps with my totally yellowed headlights on my 21 y.o. Opel Corsa. I had no finer sandpaper than 600 grit. I gave it a try and it worked wonders. Done sanding within the hour. Sprayed them in 4 layers. The result the next day was kind of dull. (Orange peel) Since I didn't have any sandpaper to buff it up, I used Commandant M5 polish with a polishing pad on my cordless drill. The end result really is amazing! And I still think the paint cures a bit more to full clarity. This video saved me from buying new headlights, so thanks man! Total costs under $10,-
This is the best ever, cheaper and easiest way so far i have come across to clean the headlights. This works really well . Fantastic results. Whoever wants to try this, i would say blindly go for it, this stuff really works 🤟🤟
This is the way Dad and I fixed ours also!! Such an amazing technique that he would do it to customers headlight covers as well!! Thank you for sharing because the word needs to get out on how things like this can, help people save loads of money in this crazy expensive World we live in.
saw this video 8yrs ago when you first uploaded it Chris, didn't need it then, but man is it coming in clutch today. Bought a truck (Dodge RAM) and the state safety inspection. Just got back from Home Depot and about to put this video to work. Thank you!
@@AnHebrewChild it helped but state inspectors still failed me. So I had to replace them. Honestly you can’t tell a difference. I think these guys just won’t let you pass unless you’ve spent money. They said I was missing a bracket for the suspension but when I went to the dodge dealer parts center they said that my year didn’t have that.
The very day this video came out I coated my headlights in about 12 layers of clear coat. Today, after about 2 years the clear coat is finally starting to peel off. My headlights were crystal clear the entire time. I live in the coast of california where we are plagued by yellow headlights. Not me though! Thanks Chris Fix!!!
I actually did this today on our truck. I was always polishing it with toothpaste every couple months to get a somewhat clear non yellow lense. Today I wet sanded with 600 - 1200 - 2000 - 3000, then alcohol wipe. Taped it off and put 3 passes of Krylon Color Master acrylic crystal clear with durable cover max technology (quoting the lable) and later in the day after it all dried nice I finished it off with a quick coat of carnauba wax. It came out awesome, crystal clear, looks like a brand new Glass Lense. I was using the clear coat from a previous project and they did not have any non yellowing clear coat at my local shop, so will have to order a new can from amazon, so for now I will be driving with one super clear lens and one yellow faded out lens. But this really does work great and is super easy.
John Norris I just did mine and I'm waiting to 24 hours for it to dry. It doesn't look super clear after I sprayed the clear coat on, do it dry clear after the 24 hour period?
After it dries if it does not look clear, maybe you got the wrong clear coat? I know they have some that are opaque. you can always try more coats to see if that works.After it is all dried, you can also try applying a polishing compound like used to polish your car. to smooth out the finish more. Finish it off with a wax like carnuba wax to help protect the clear coat as it is not as industrial or durable as the clear coat on your paint job. They do have some heavy duty clear coat spray paints out there that have a hardener added to the paint that will last much longer. these cans have a button on the bottom that you depress, this releases the hardener into the clear coat in the paint.
Just did ‘06 Pilot, After watching every video I possibly could, Chris’s made the most sense. The only deviation I made was using Maguires headlight coating vs. clearcoat. Couldn’t be more pleased with the results, thanks Chris!
Great video! I like how you show us why we don't need to worry when the headlights don't look shiny after the first coat of clear gloss. It really helps to not overthink the results :)
As a pro detailer. There is no such thing as permanent headlight restoration, but it’s cool to run across your diy video you seem pretty good at this stuff bro. GGs👊🏾🔥
Yes considering the average person keeps their car for 3-5 years for them it will be permanent you are absolutely right on that part. I meant more in a technical way that eventually it will oxidize just like the OEM UV coating due to the build quality of modern cars.
@@chrisfix the only thing bad about this stuff in my opinion is that it is much more difficult to sand off than your standard clear coat like meguiars because of the hardener. It also doesn’t allow the headlight to expand and breath properly if you live in the more harsh conditions that go from 40 degrees to 88 the next day. Obviously that’s just my experience :) keep making banger vids brotha🫶🏾
Just brought my dream car (2004 wrx) home this weekend, but the headlights are a little hazy so I'm gonna try this tomorrow. Thanks to you, I'm not afraid to work on my car myself!
+Erich Lavelle Same thing happened to me leaving "ridges". Sand it back to smooth and when you re-spray it hold the can much further away. Even if you have to make five applications spray just enough to cover the lens and keep repeating. I speak from experience having tried to rush the job on both headlights.
Thanks for teaching me more in 5 months about engine maintenance, care, parts repair and prevention on a lot of aspects from it, than my automotive career has done in 2.6 years, love your dedication!
Chris I never seen a UA-camr who responded to his old videos like you do. It might seem silly to hear this from a random guy on the internet but I'm proud of you my guy. Keep up the amazing work and never change!
Great video. One additional tip. Instead of constantly spraying water while wetsanding use a bucket with watet in it. Then just keep dipping the paper in the bucket every few seconds. It helps get the yellowed plastic particles your removing from building up on the wet paper. Which gives you clean paper every time you dip it in the bucket of water.
Did this today and gawdam, the headlights on my civic are looking so good. I was actually shopping for new lights until i remembered this video. Thanks Chris. My bucket is looking more like a polished bucket now :)
I did this on my 2003 Honda Accord and it looks absolutely stunning. I thought I messed up because of the haze the next morning but the wet sand and polish did the trick. You’re the best Chris!!
I'm 15 and I'm getting my first used car soon! I get my license in a couple months and I can't wait. Your videos have been so helpful to me, thank you.
Best thing is that yellowed lights make the car look lower value even if the rest of the car is perfect, so you can find a bargain that way, screw them down on the price and then you can fix the headlights yourself and win. :)
You’re the best dude. I’m learning so much from you. Thank you for the high quality, in depth, step by step videos. And you have a great attitude as well. That makes a big difference. Gratitude, from Nashville, TN
Hey Chris, what a great video! I just used this method to restore the headlights on my 2004 Mazda 6 and the results were amazing! The headlights went from being super yellowed and hazy on the outside, to perfectly clear! I would strongly recommend this to anyone wanting to restore their headlights. Cheers!
Hey Chris, I just did this and you saved me a couple hundred bucks plus the time to replace headlights that didnt need to be replaced. Thank you and I can send pics if you want them. Have a happy new year bro!
@@christophermendez1607 I don't think you want anything that causes a matte effect for the headlight, but I could be wrong. I'm commenting to you so that your comment will get recognition from chrisfix and you might get an answer. Keep thumbs upping people in this comment section and it will give Chris a notice that there is activity on this comment.
finally did this on my 2009 Toyota Rav4 - I was nervous....it didn't look that much better after all the sanding... UNTIL i sprayed that clear coat. Amazingly clear results!! Thanks ChrisFix
I was like "how does this channel have 5.2* million subs?"......Then I watched a few of your vids and was like "Ohhhhhh, I see." You have some great content.
ChrisFix I agree.. the vids are great and manageable with step by step. However, like Michael Holmes, I followed each step and have the orange peel-y finish on the headlight I started with.....not clear. it is not 24 hr yet, so I am presuming I go ahead with the light sand etc to get the clarity? I can see the diff, it looks better, but it is not see thru as vid shows..... How would I know if I am light 2000 grit sanding off too much clear coat? and yes, I ordered the items you used from Amazon to follow the directions...
Hey chrisfix, I just discovered your videos by accident. I have a remodeling business so I great with my hands. My issue was I don't want to break things on cars but your vids definitely showed me that almost anyone car work on cars, at least the older ones. Great job bro!
Wait a few days for the paint to harden and cure. Then wet sand with 2000 grit so it is uniformly hazy. Then move up to 3000 grit, then 5000 grit and then use a polish like this and buff it until crystal clear: amzn.to/2sJbZXk
I have a 2006 PT Cruiser convertible and followed Chris' instructions - worked like a charm; headlights look new - and yes, better to do it on the car - you have to removed the front wheels to get at the headlights!!! Great job and it was easy too.
I have been sanding on cracked headlights with 1,000 grit and 2500 grit sand paper on a 2003 buick rendezvos, and they look almost factory, and hey, I watch your videos, how cool is that, I am a big fan of your videos, I am a car and truck enthusiastic, I know alot about cars and trucks. Not only do I watch your videos for entertainment, I also watch them to get advise to help me progress in life, how to wash cars, and stuff like that
Thank you for the awesome video! I have a 10-yr-old Civic I'm trying to get more years out of. The engine is fine, it's the cosmetic stuff that's falling apart! This worked great! I'll add my two cents that after the 2000 grit, I used some plastic polish for the final sand. I'm so encouraged by the results, I'm going to watch more for my other projects!
My headlights were yellowed like old cellophane tape. Your video is the only technique for an permanent fix. Manufacturers love to sell temporary fixes so you keep buying their product. Why can't cars have glass lenses? Please note: in some states you can actually get a fix-it ticket if your lenses are too cloudy. A cloudy lens will not throw the light beam as far. If one has a little patience, your technique is quite easy. My lenses on my 14 year old truck now look new. Thank you for this video.
I think it is a cost issue, much cheaper to make them out of plastic. To get the same proffit out of glass lenses they would have to charge an arm and a leg, people would buy but the volume would be so low that it is just more proffitable to use plastic. At least on the average car. Now high end vehicles may be different.
yixnorb I was told it was DOT regulations require plastic lens for protection to pedestrians believe it not... in cases where you hit one. In Europe, most all vehicles have the same lens' made of glass.. well I know BMW , MERCEDES, Audi do.. many people buy the euro glass lens through the aftermarket and swap out... much better light results with glass
vengefulvegan I just did mine and I'm waiting to 24 hours for it to dry. It doesn't look super clear after I sprayed the clear coat on, do it dry clear after the 24 hour period?
I did this today. It’s totally do-able for the average person, and it came out beautiful!! I got a little over-exuberant with the final coat on one headlight and there’s a drip, but that’s my bad. Awesome video!
You are so clear with your instructions anyone can do this! Every time I thought of a question, you totally addressed it in the next clip. Thanks so much!
Its been 5 years my jeep is finally back yellow lasted so long cant thank u enough gna sell it after i do this magic to its headlights again at 290000 miles itll go for 2300 bucks 😊
Glad to hear the real life experience! Mine lasted about 5yrs as well!
@@chrisfixAre u able to drive the car while waiting the 24 hrs for the clear coat to dry? I wouldn’t be able to let the car sit for 24 hrs straight, would it still come out the same if i just wet sand and wax after the 24 hrs?
@@nathanmartins5543 i would'nt drive since the clear coat hasn't dried up yet and if dirt and rocks hit the headlight it will look scratched up
Bout to use this to get past a road worthy in Australia
Cheers mate!
I did this five years ago and it’s starting yellowing again. I don’t have any clear coat left so I just waxed it after wet sanding with 1500 and 5000 grit. Looks great
This video is almost 7 years old now, and ChrisFix still respond to comments. What a legend!
Tru
You can see him in the paint
Legend boi
This comment is 7 months old now.
@@THXIIIRTEEN lol
Chris, can't thank you enough for your videos. I am 67 yrs. old and a widow so I have to do things on a limited income. Thanks for explaining why things are done and in easy instructions to follow. You are my go to guy for my 1997 Dodge Ram 4x4.
Peggy Dawson 👍👍
That's your first mistake DOGE! If it says DOGE on it RUN AWAY...... I don't know why you ahve to Doge a car that always in service broken down.
bobbg stay in school
bobbg 97 dodges are better than the newer ones
keith schaedel hey Keith get bent
10 yrs ago i didn't know how to locate an alternator, a caliper bolt, a coil pack.....i knew almost zero about cars, yet i drove them well. 10yrs later I've done over 30 plus brake jobs, replaced ac parts, fixed heating system, modified exhausts, installed several suspension upgrades, upgraded brakes to brembo calipers, replaced several wheel hubs, painted 2 cars, installed racing seats, minor transmission repairs, flipped a few cars, helped several random strangers with minor repairs...this faceless dude who says "soapy woder" gave me the confidence to entire the world of DIY...saving myself 1000s over the years. I remember when he was at 300k subs. You're a boy now. You've helped millions. Thanks a million Chris!
I met Chris at the Indy500 last year - really cool guy!
I literally just did this yesterday to the headlights of my 2009 MKS, and it came out PERFECTLY. Thet dealership wanted $800 for EACH new headlight!! ChrisFix, you're a godsend 🙇 Much Thanks to you
He’s an alien and genius. Me, We’ve learned so much from his channel and DIY fix the things with the reasonable cost ever. Respect to Chris-fix, forever! And say no more dealerships! Yeah... xD
$800 for each!!!!!?????? 😳😳😳😳 What the ........
You saved some serious money doing it yourself! DIY is where it's at!
800dls per light??? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
How has it stood up?
Last Tuesday my daughter and I attempted to refurbish the headlights on her 2007 Camry. We followed your technique step by step. While the wet sanding had us a bit worried at the beginning, the end result was brilliant. Thanks so much for sharing this adventure and I want to let you know that our “High Five” upon completion felt soooo good!
That's great! About to do my 07 Camry as well. Did you use the Meguiar's G12310 PlastX Clear Plastic Cleaner & Polish, 10 Fluid Ounces he recommends? Not sure how that step works.
lockergr I’m thinking about doing this. Did you use the polish? If so how and what step do I do that?
XZCRZYKILLER I've not done it yet so I can't say. Will try and update once I do. But for my understanding it should be used after the clear coat spray. It's supposed to get the orange peel off which I guess is the flakiness in the clear coat.
lockergr ok thank you please do try to keep me updated.
I've just tried this and the headlights are still hazy
I followed these directions about 6 years ago, and the lights still look great! I also did the fog lights! Thanks, Chris!
Well, I am now officially motivated - 6 years is a long damn time.
@@jdsguam How is it going
@@jdsguam That's enough time for the headlights to get 100k miles older or more, and still look the same from when he first restored them
For everyone else, go watch any other headlight restoration "how to" video. This one has dated information, you don't leave the headlight rough so the clear coat can "stick" lol. The smoother it is the better it will look.
@@mimos7214 Van is still on the road & the lights still look clear. There is a slight haze in one spot on the "top" of the lens, but overall, it's still looking good!
The fog lights were pitted before & are still pitted, but clear, although they don't get much sunlight exposure.
I’ve done this twice, probably 4 years apart, on my 2004 4Runner. An hour of work to make it look way better and brighter/safer lighting. Thanks, Chris, this works so well!
As others have recomended always go with SYLVANIA Headlight Restoration Kit. Shits the best on the market, and I can't recomend it enough.
I did this twice too on my 2004 Camry. But it didn’t make it much better. And it got worse quick. I think once the plastic “yellows” it’s too late.
What brand clear did you use?
You've had to do this twice on the same car? The video claims it's permanent.
@@sweatshopkidsit lasted 4 years though even when you buy the car new they eventually haze so don’t get your point.
If you do this on a PT Cruiser, it increases the value by 11 dollars
Sploek Griffy i have never laughed at a reply before I read this one
Made my day!
Sploek Griffy lmao 😂
Sploek Griffy but it cost 20$ to buy the stuff. 😂
I recently went to Walmart and spent $13.55, 99cents Store items included.
I tried a number of products to get the headlights on an older car we have clear again... with no success. They always clouded up again. We just decided not to drive it at night anymore and then I found your video and thought it was worth a shot. My 15 year old took one headlight and I did the other. It was quality time for us both and fun at the same time. The results were AMAZING! We were just hoping it would stay that way.
BTW, I waited until 6 months elapsed before commenting and I'm happy to say this process works... permanently!! Thanks for posting this video and for instructions which were very easy to follow. My headlights are bright again and it didn't cost an arm and a leg. Outstanding!
Is it still working?
I did this to two vehicles recently. The price to replace the set of headlights was $350, this made the headlights look amazing for less than $20. Thank you sir!
Awesome!
Did this actually work? I’m extremely nervous to do this... how long will this also last? I don’t get how using sandpaper which scratches it is a good think and then somehow magically the clear coat does it lol... just hard to believe.
@@polishmafia1573 then maybe don't do it lol. If you don't understand how it works then it's not for you..
Have you used plastic primer before spraying the clear coat layers? The product that Chris used says that it bonds on plastic, mine doesn't and I'm scared it may look like crap...
@@polishmafia1573 sandpaper removes the haze..by scratching it away, clear coat fills the scratches and adds a protective layer..lol
I've been on the internet since the early 90's and this is the best instructional I've ever seen, heard or read. Nicely done. I had exactly zero questions after watching this instructional. Just saved me 400 dollars.
Hey- I did this 5 years ago, and now they're starting to fog up again. Actually I'm happy with the results, I came back as a refresher before I do it again- I even still have all the materials. Thanks!
Thanks for sharing!
How well did it hold up?
Yes, that is about what you can expect. Consider the superior products that are applied from factory supplied headlights. They go yellow. Nothing lasts forever and all finishes are but temporary, but it is better than just buffing. A good 2K clear spray might be a better option as it is a catalyzed finish, but it is expensive and you must wear a proper respirator and not a dust mask when shooting it. Maybe get another year or two out of the finish over the airdry non cat finish.
5 years is pretty good
Keep waxing them every 3 months and you should avoid them fogging up again. Only so many times you ca restore them.
Thank you so much for this video!!!! It’s Currently July 2024.
My old 2007 Yukon headlights were foggy and yellow. I found this video when I was googling how to fix the headlights and figured worse case I would just have to get new headlights.
I bought everything at Walmart the other day and just finished the clear coat. I’m so proud of my work I texted videos and before and after photos to my family.
I’m a single mom and I’m so thankful you for your step by step tutorial that anyone can do. 💜
I'd recommend adding this in the description so it's easier to know what the steps are:
1. Tape around headlight
2. Wet sand 400 grit swirl pattern
3. Wet sand 400 grit horizontal pattern
4. Wet sand 600 grit swirl pattern
5. Wet sand 600 grit horizontal pattern
6. Thoroughly clean
7. Wet sand 2000 grit swirl pattern
8. Wet sand 2000 grit horizontal pattern
9. Thoroughly clean with alcohol and let air dry
10. Tape plastic bag around area of headlight
11. Spray 1st coat clear gloss UV rated
12. Wait at least 5 minutes
13. Spray 2nd coat clear gloss UV rated
14. Wait 24 hours
15. Apply Carnauba car wax
16. Buff out wax
17. Remove taped off material
clear coat for PLASTIC
You missed the 3rd clear coat
Thank you!
Why use of 2000 grit after 600 grit ?? Brandon .
@@tonycervantes4816 Because you always go to a finer grit
I De-fogged the headlights on my wife's 2013 Corolla yesterday and it came out great!
More importantly, the lights on my Caravans, done years ago, are still looking great! Thanks, Chris!
Nice work and glad the video was helpful!
I told my Mum during lockdown I was going to sand the headlights and polish them on her 2005 MK5 Golf she said whatever and was not interested I was bored and just gave myself the task. When she next drove the car in the dark she was shocked and told me she keeps trying to turn off the full beam. She was very pleaseantly suprised with what the work did.
A random guy at my local salvage yard told me to take these exact steps to permanently clear up my headlights and it works just as in this video. Great step by step how to.
That's awesome! Thanks a lot!
Im afraid to scratch the headlight with sand paper .it is ok sir?
@@airrolmedestomas if you scratch it a little bit with the 400 grip ir 600 grip just sand it with 2000 grip over the scratch and it will disappear
@@airrolmedestomas Don't be scared of that you will likely be fine and using sandpaper even with sub 1000 grit will not cause irreversible damage. As long as you polish the lights up well after sanding them they will last good.
I'm amazed!!! Update: I actually did this and the results were fantastic! I can't thank you enough for all the empowerment you provide. God bless you!
Awesome. I've been looking for comments on if someone had done it. Thanks fore saying something! I'm about to do it on my Santa Fe.
@@kimberchick8527 He inspired me to change my own headlights, tail light, interior light, and that AC filter that's under the hood (I already knew how to replace the cabin one). I even used this headlight recovery trick on the faded solar lights around my property. ChrisFix is truly my hero!
@@Amyzgr8r hey Amy, every time you sanded, did you do 5 minutes each time or how long?
@@jlkeeper8901 Oh, I didn't really time it. Just eyeballed it.
Ive done this using the same clear coat and it all was in spider webs after 10 minutes. Did three coats and that did not help a single but. Then talked to a professional, they said need a plastic adhesion promoter, used that (doing everything form scratch again), this time the clear coat did not have the spider web, but the headlights are hazy and dont look "amazing". Now when i rewatch the video i realize that his headlights are hazy as well, it is just his comments that made me think they did look great.
Hey Chris, the thing that I love most about your channel is that even though this video is like what, 4 years old, you are still replying to people’s new comments. That shows commitment and it also means you care. Keep up the good work buddy! People care about your videos! (Especially me)
Thanks Trey! I do my best to answer as many comments as I can!
Yeah, or maybe replying still because of the bull shit that's still continuing to get out to people!
Matt Rivera or may be just it's because he likes reading a bunch of comments (like a lot of normal people do) and sometimes replies them just for fun. I'm pretty sure he's making this videos for fun too, so I bet he enjoys reading critiques and compliments about him.
Trey to add to your comment when it comes to a good video production "content is king" and when it is good information (like Chris presents) it will be timeless. In other words have a long shelf life out there. Take this subject matter for example the headlight lenses used to be made out of glass and if they still were we would not be having this discussion. But they were limited to a round or rectangular shapes. When the plastic design came out, all these new sleek molded designs started happening. Removing the headlight from just being stuck in the grill to actually evolving and incorporating the lenses aerodynamically into the body design and the fender. With awesome flexibility and creativity came one chink in the armor! The plastic surface is softer and more porous then glass and it is not impervious to UV or the sun damage as the glass lenses were. So I think Chris's choices for topics I feel come from our asking questions about current timely issues that we are currently experiencing.....and one of them is our plastic headlight assembly's are failing due to time and the elements. Sorry that was more then 2 cents worth but Chris you have inspired this old dog to possibly jump ship from my current mundane career of working for the man and starting my ownmobile detail business.!
Trey Jaramillo jeery morning no goodbye
Thank you Chris. My 2008 MDX failed inspection due to yellowed/hazy headlights. Less than $50 at an auto parts store, and 30 minutes of my time, my headlights look brand new. Can't wait for 24 hours to do one more wet sand and then wax. You are a real treasure.
I did this to my Mums cars it somehow had a valid MOT with the lights only being advisory and they were very far gone arguably too far gone I restored them but could only remove about 90% of the yellowing and haze I did this in 2020 whilst bored in lockdown and she was highly impressed with the headlight performance afterwards and kept trying to turn off the full beams due to the new levels of brightness. 3 years later the restoration is still holding up very well too. I used 5000 grit and 7000 grit sandpaper followed by T cut polish and turtle wax to restore them I imagine if I used better equipment I would have done even better.
I reckon in just a few videos this guy has increased the value of my bike by a few hundred dollars, many many thanks.
Awesome! That is what I like to hear!
i love how even after 6 years chris still replies to comments on this video, thats dedication! =)
Yes!
Dude I thought the same thing. He is truly super humble and is so great full to be where he is.
lmao he still hasn’t noticed yours
Of course!
@Kosulin Anastasios That will be out very soon now! Stay tuneeeeed!
Just tried this on my old Toyota Corolla. The lights were so hazy that I didn’t feel comfortable driving at night as the lights had gotten so dim. This method worked perfectly ! They turned out so nice. Thank you so much for this video.
Same for my ugly 99 Camry, and wow do clear headlights do a lot to the appearance!
+Phillip Paul, I cannot reply to your comment for some reason so I hope you see this. You do not want to buff the lens smooth. You want to have scratches and follow the 400-600-2000 exactly like in this video. The 600 grit puts deep enough scratches into the surface of the lens while the 2000 light sand, cuts any surface roughness off. This allows for the clear coat to adhere properly so it wont peel in a year. If you make it smooth, the clear coat wont grab onto anything and it will peel. You can also have a problem with the paint running.
ChrisFix So basically 400-600-2000 is a must? Not just 600-2000, or 2000 alone?
GigaDonk You can do 600-2000 but not just 2000. You need the deeper 600 grit scratches to help the clear coat adhere for a good long time!
ChrisFix
Why you dont use wd40 ?
Nm
Spraying tip: Start and end beyond the headlight, this prevents overspray on the headlights. Anytime you use a sprayer use this technique.
Please explain?
@@Stedemn Long response-bear with me. When you spray the clear, you're going to move the can from side to side. When you make a pass with the can, start a foot or so before the spray pattern reaches the light. Press the button and make your pass across the light. Don't release the button till you are past the lens. This keeps the spray pattern consistent on the surface of the light. Consistent pattern=consistent coverage.
Thanks!
Its like pre firing
I subscribed just because Chris still replies to comments even after 6 years.
Welcome aboard! And I spend 4 hours every day reading and responding to you guys!
@@chrisfix woah that's crazy. You must be that type of person who has a schedule for every thing.
@@chrisfix can we get a timing belt video? 😁
Same and because i want to see more bmw car thing he is doing currently
Star Light, with as many subscribers as Chris has, it is surprising that he'd even be able to reply. I can imagine he could be getting a thousand comments a month where a reply to the question/comment was asked, especially since Chris has such great videos and in my opinion, one of the most Professional Repair videos to watch on UA-cam. He gets to the point without a bunch of ''Bl-Bla-Bla mixed into the video. Some mechanics add so much talk during the repair, I've often ended up feeling like I shouldn't even attempt even doing the repair lol. Chris, if you read this, You Totally Rock Man & thanks agin for another Awesome Video.... MD..........
Chris, you are the man. You've given me the confidence to try so many of these fixes that I never have before. You're an amazing teacher and awesome film maker. Thank you for all that you do.
I did the headlights on my Mums car in 2020 (Had lots of time in lockdown) they were arguably too far gone and far worse than the ones in this video, I used his methods and was able to remove all the haze from the lights but they had also yellowed badly too but I only managed to remove 85-90% of the yellowing. However 3 years on from the work I did they still hold up and for around 100-200 dark miles until my Mum got used to the headlights being brighter she kept trying to turn off the full beam that wasn't on. This was a car she had bought cheap used for £600 so its pretty crap however I completely transformed the lights.
Did this process today on some 7 year old headlights that were plain awful. I messed up a little on the 2nd coat and had to restart but the end result, following Chris' step by step instructions, gave me brand new looking headlights. I can actually see at night now.
By restart do you mean re sand?
@topixartist when I applied the 2nd top coat, I touched it with a towel, and it bunched up and crackled. So yes, I sanded it back down with sand paper and restarted the whole process
@@mccarthermitchell2873 happens to me but when I sanded it down again the crackles were still there somehow
Yeah ive got crackles now. Not sure how to prevent this. Any tips?
@@moonlighshinobiI just botched my clear coat as well. Tried sanding it down and I think I did it too soon or not enough sanding. Trying some varsol (paint remover) now and will update you if that gets rid of the crackle. Update- varsol didn't do much...sanding is the way to get the crackle to disappear. Lots of sanding lol
This was helpful, here's the summary:
1. Put masking tape all the way around both headlights. Don’t leave paint around lights showing.
2. Spray headlight and 400-grit sandpaper with lots of water.
3. While keeping surface wet the whole time, use sandpaper to swirl in circular motion. Don’t push too hard.
- Milky colour will run, which is fine.
- Make sure grooves are done around the edges
4. Finish by sanding horizontally. Include grooves.
5. Do steps 3-4 with 600-grit sandpaper. Slightly more pressure than before.
6. Use water and paper towel to wipe off the headlight.
7. Do steps 3-4 with 2000-grit sandpaper. Not too much pressure.
8. Repeat step 6.
9. Use alcohol on paper towel to clean it off. Leave to dry.
10. Use garbage bag to cover the front of the car around the headlights. Tape it down to the car nice and tight.
11. Push down bag over headlight. Lift up slightly, then cut a hole around the edge of the headlight. It can be slightly bigger, but not bigger than the masking tape.
12. Tape the inside of the headlight hole tape to garbage bag.
13. Repeat step 9. Do not touch from this point on.
14. Once dried, use light and fast sprays of clear coat over the headlight. Cover lightly twice: up to down, down to up.
15. Let dry for 5 minutes.
16. Repeat step 14. Make sure grooves are sprayed too.
17. Let dry for 5 minutes.
18. Repeat step 14.
19. Let it dry for at least 24 hours. More is better, up to 7 days. Do not drive car during this time.
20. Remove garbage bag cover, but not original masking tape around headlight.
21. Do wet sand to remove orange peel: 2000-3000-grit wet sand in the same manner as steps 3-4. Can repeat more if needed while increasing in fineness.
22. Dry.
23. Use car wax on microfiber towel and swirl it around.
24. Leave on until it hazes. Once it does, buff it out (wipe using clean buffer).
25. Remove rest of tape.
Nice bro
Thanks
I have a 3m kit and it doesnt say to wet sand for the first two rounds of sandpaper. will that make a difference?
@@AlexSchwartzATV I dunno chrisfix suggested wet sand for every time you sand it here so...not sure how it'll work if you don't
@@AlexSchwartzATV I would wet sand every time, especially on plastic. The water helps avoid build up of material (in the sandpaper) that is coming off the headlamp and makes the sanding much more consistent over the entire surface.
Just did this yesterday and I cannot believe how good my headlight looks! If you are having any doubts trust me, if you actually follow the steps you should be fine! Thanks ChrisFix!!!
Welp.. Im back after watching this video 9 years ago. I tried this method on an old 2001 Mercedes c320's headlights. I ended up selling the car but the headlights looked clear even after 6 years of doing this! Thanks again Chris!!
Awesome! Thanks a lot!
This is the comment I wanted to see: someone sharing how effective this method is years after the application.
I have done this technique one three different cars and it has worked really well. The first one I did three years ago and now, the clear coat is starting to yellow and come off. I love this channel and think Chris is awesome but this technique is definitely NOT permanent. It’s by far the most effective and longest lasting treatment under buying a brand new headlight. I’ve used other DIY techniques and even rainx (etc) kits but nothing worked as well.
Another great thing about this is that you will have that can of clear coat for every touch up you’ll need in the future. You use such a small fraction of it.
Chris, I appreciate the time and effort you put into make these video's available to your viewers. They are always very informative, clear, concise and to the point. Because of your expertise and the way you present your video's, you make it look easy and inspire novice like myself to give it a try. Keep up the good work, it is much appreciated!
Thank you so much!! Saved me $80. Now when I was applying the clear coat, I turned all the headlights to heat up while applying the clear coat, which prevented the orange peel
KherielTheCereal Wow wish I read this before I sprayed the clear coat. I’ve got a lot of bumpy orange peel that I have to sand down and refinish
DANG IT! Wish I would have read this too! Now i have to sand but, it's OK. Still grateful for ALL information ♥ .•:*¨¨*:•. ♥
Heated headlights? That's a thing?!
@@a.j.9727 I think he ment the natural heat that the lightbulbs put out. Especally xenon lights. They warm up the surface nicely.
@@TheBestGames974 I'm aware 😉.
This channel is not only one of my top 3, as far as usefulness goes I could probably say Chris is my number one favorite creator on all of UA-cam! This guy is genuinely a national treasure! Much of this stuff, I already know, but all of it includes subtle details That can save every day people looking to improve the quality of their lives thousands of dollars. Please don't ever stop doing what you're doing or the way that you're doing it. You have the perfect theme, subject matter, & layout. Nothing you're doing will ever get old, or fall out of favor. I've been following you for a very long time & the day you stop making UA-cam videos, I'll know this platform Is obsolete.
I guess what I'm saying is thank you for everything!
If you want to double the value of a PT Cruiser, fill up the gas tank.
Or, how about: "I'd like some wiper blades for my PT Cruiser?" "Sounds like a fair trade, here you go."
Lol I was wondering why he even had one
My former employer had a pt cruiser for employees to drive, everyone called it the pt loser cruiser
Too funny. My wife had a PT. I hated it. A drive of more than 10 miles was torture. What a piece of crap
LOL.
I just did this on my 350z, WOW what a difference. Small tip is when you move on to the 2k grit, sand until it seems clear while youre sanding, I.E. you dont see much haze while its wet. Learned that the hard way.
Mr. Mills I messed up, the clear coat got bubbly and peeled. do I have to start over or just add wax
Black Titan I would re-sand it. I didn't sand my right one enough with the 2k grit the first time so I went over it again with the 400 then 600 then spent a lot of time on the 2k. After re doing it the light looks great. I would re do
Mr. Mills I only have 600 and 2000 grit, should I start from the 600 grit and up. would that be enough to get the clear coat off completely?
Yea you should be fine
Mr. Mills Did you also respray them with clearcoat?
Holy shit fam dude your a blessing like fr some guy tried to get to pay him $30 for cleaning my headlight one for $7 I doubt they wear permanent this is just a life saver thank you . I'm on your notification squad now
Glad the video was helpful and welcome aboard!
Just done this to a older car that I seriously thought I was gonna have to buy new headlight assembly and decided to try this, after doing this it literally looks like I put new headlight assemblies in, what a difference this made, great video and thanks for sharing
Amazing video, I watched and did this 1 year ago and forgot to comment lol but: I was skeptical about using clear coat paint, folks said it's only a temporary fix and it will yellow again within 6 months. But, after a year the headlight is still looking great. No yellowing or chipping. Thanks a lot Chris!
Ladies, sand thoroughly. Chris makes it look easy. My first headlight I had to resand and repaint because I didn't get down to the plastic. It crackled. Now that I have sanded properly the job is beautiful on my 2003 Avalon. Thanks Chris!!!
That's the biggest problem with them all, it's all about removing all the grime or streaks and texture..lol
I had that problem too but I think it was due to spraying the paint too heavily. It's important to use very light coats when spraying plastic
I just did mine, and the clear coat looks like it’s cracked. I spent an hour sanding but I don’t know what to do. Once your headlights also looked cracked, how exactly did you sand it in what order? 600 the. 2,000 and then spray coat again?
@@georgelopez9517 I had to purchase new lights as the re-finish job only stayed nice for 6 months.
I've done that 3 months ago. Still looking good. My dad was impressed, thank you very much
😂
Awesome glad to hear it!
Yo dude
Mine is dead and there was never ever any way to impress him.
any news on how it looks now after 8months? im interested to do the same.
You are truly the best! I am a single 60 year old female who has never had enough money for repairs of any kind or anyone to ever help me. I have cried so many times about troubles that have happened with my vehicles thinking now what? I can't do that as in different repairs ...but then each time I found you except one issue recently. You have always had such clear verbally and visually videos. You have saved me so much money! And you gave me a pride or great feeling when I was done saying ... Wow I did it myself! The one thing I did not find from you that I needed help with was for a 2005 Buick rainier specifically how to get the washer fluid reservoir out and check to see where fluid is pouring out from. In my case it was a crack in the base of the rear fluid pump. Car shop said they checked it out and there was a huge hole or maybe they said crack and wanted est. Of $400!! There was neither! My lights tho had some kind of vinyl cover over them that was peeling off and then once I just pulled all the film off .... my headlights were ruined and I could not see clearly out of them and nothing ever worked that I tried but I kept making them worse. So thank you so much again!!
Mam, you should be commended for your attitude! Keep on keeping on so to speak
I swear Chris Fix you have helped my detailing business so much man you are the goat 🐐 💯
Chris your instructional video really gave me the confidence to work on my dirty old Mazda 3 lights. It only took about 2 foo fighter albums and they turned out beautifully!!!
My wife's car is a Mazda 3, and the headlights look terrible. I was considering doing this, and hearing you had success helps me get up the nerve to try it. Thanks!
Sandpaper works better than Foo Fighters albums, but you do you.
I'm a middle school teacher and I just wanted to compliment you on the quality of this video as a teacher. You explain background concepts, the purpose of each tool and how you model how to do each step clearly and correctly, I loved it both as a teacher and someone who needs to prepare a car scratch.
Thanks!!!!
I just tried this on my 2014 Kia Soul this morning and it works! I was afraid to commit to the high gloss so I used wax like another video showed. But now that I see that I actually will work for me next time I will sand it down a little bit better and use the gloss. Thanks Chris! You are very trustworthy source for this near 60-year-old woman
Glad this worked well for you! Thanks!
I finally decided to do this, and it worked awesome
My truck's headlights were super cloudy, but now they look almost brand new!
Definitely one of my favorite channels! Thanks man!
I did this like 9 years ago when this video was new posted on my 2002 VW Jetta 1.8T and it worked like a goddamned charm. Here I am in 2023, 2 vehicles later (2014 Dodge Avenger, and now on my 2021 Chevy Colorado Z71) and I have a wife and kids and a home (I was like 22 when I did this with the Jetta) and my wife's 2016 Nissan Rogue headlamps are so foggy that it's literally dimming the lights at night when she drives. Was looking back trying to find this video because I remembered how great it worked on the Jetta almost a decade ago and boom baby! Found it. Thanks my friend. Headed to the hardware store tomorrow after work for supplies and will be working on my wife's Rogue this weekend.
I'm glad this worked well for your VW way back then and you're doing it again! Crazy how time flies!
Honesty THE best how to UA-camr by far!!! Thank you chrisfix
Thanks a lot!
Wow thanks so much Chris! Just did this on my mk1 Audi TT and the results are totally astonishing. I tried several methods over a few weeks and this was hands down the best. Nothing else comes close. Personally I removed headlights and made a little spray booth :)
Did this on my mums MK5 Golf during 2020 lockdown she was impressed and the restoration is holding up well over 3 years later.
I’ve tried several different headlight restoration kits and none of them gave me good results. I stumbled across this video and decided to give it a try, and this method works really well.
I'm glad this method worked well for you!
Love this dude, so nice to hear the passion and enthusiasm in his voice in present day videos; sounded a little tired in this one. Keep it up Chris, you're so many peoples' hero with the work you do!
Facts only! 💯💯💯
I just did my 2010 CRV and 2000 Explorer using this process. Works great and is easy to do. Beats the expensive Sylvania, Mothers and other kit methods out there today. Thanks Chris!
Awesome! Glad the video was helpful!
As someone that loves to do their own upkeep on everything they own, keeping it as pristine as possible-- I'm so incredibly grateful for this video! Thank you so much! You definitely just saved me hundreds of dollars, my girl is getting up there in age!
I followed these steps with my totally yellowed headlights on my 21 y.o. Opel Corsa.
I had no finer sandpaper than 600 grit. I gave it a try and it worked wonders. Done sanding within the hour.
Sprayed them in 4 layers. The result the next day was kind of dull. (Orange peel)
Since I didn't have any sandpaper to buff it up, I used Commandant M5 polish with a polishing pad on my cordless drill.
The end result really is amazing! And I still think the paint cures a bit more to full clarity.
This video saved me from buying new headlights, so thanks man! Total costs under $10,-
Quick Tip: If you're lazy like me, wait until its raining hard outside and then start the sanding part.
haha
good one
🤣🤣
lol work smart not hard 😂👏🏾
@Jeremy K Tape it beforehand, and then pray it starts raining soon enough.
lol
This is the best ever, cheaper and easiest way so far i have come across to clean the headlights. This works really well . Fantastic results. Whoever wants to try this, i would say blindly go for it, this stuff really works 🤟🤟
Glad to see the helped you out! Thanks a lot!
This is the way Dad and I fixed ours also!!
Such an amazing technique that he would do it to customers headlight covers as well!!
Thank you for sharing because the word needs to get out on how things like this can,
help people save loads of money in this crazy expensive World we live in.
saw this video 8yrs ago when you first uploaded it Chris, didn't need it then, but man is it coming in clutch today. Bought a truck (Dodge RAM) and the state safety inspection. Just got back from Home Depot and about to put this video to work. Thank you!
@betterwithrum - How did this turn out for you?
@@AnHebrewChild it helped but state inspectors still failed me. So I had to replace them. Honestly you can’t tell a difference. I think these guys just won’t let you pass unless you’ve spent money. They said I was missing a bracket for the suspension but when I went to the dodge dealer parts center they said that my year didn’t have that.
The very day this video came out I coated my headlights in about 12 layers of clear coat. Today, after about 2 years the clear coat is finally starting to peel off. My headlights were crystal clear the entire time. I live in the coast of california where we are plagued by yellow headlights. Not me though! Thanks Chris Fix!!!
Surprised that he didn't use soapy wooder
nice :D ;D
soapy wooder didn't exist then. :-D
Wooder
@@jerryray3228 That requires the use of a tree.
I actually did this today on our truck. I was always polishing it with toothpaste every couple months to get a somewhat clear non yellow lense. Today I wet sanded with 600 - 1200 - 2000 - 3000, then alcohol wipe. Taped it off and put 3 passes of Krylon Color Master acrylic crystal clear with durable cover max technology (quoting the lable) and later in the day after it all dried nice I finished it off with a quick coat of carnauba wax. It came out awesome, crystal clear, looks like a brand new Glass Lense. I was using the clear coat from a previous project and they did not have any non yellowing clear coat at my local shop, so will have to order a new can from amazon, so for now I will be driving with one super clear lens and one yellow faded out lens. But this really does work great and is super easy.
John Norris I just did mine and I'm waiting to 24 hours for it to dry. It doesn't look super clear after I sprayed the clear coat on, do it dry clear after the 24 hour period?
Mine got clearer as it dried but looked pretty clear pretty quick. Should be noticeable right away.
I did finish both headlights on that suv then l did the same to my other truck. They all look good.
After it dries if it does not look clear, maybe you got the wrong clear coat? I know they have some that are opaque. you can always try more coats to see if that works.After it is all dried, you can also try applying a polishing compound like used to polish your car. to smooth out the finish more. Finish it off with a wax like carnuba wax to help protect the clear coat as it is not as industrial or durable as the clear coat on your paint job. They do have some heavy duty clear coat spray paints out there that have a hardener added to the paint that will last much longer. these cans have a button on the bottom that you depress, this releases the hardener into the clear coat in the paint.
mine is also in small cracks all over the headlight after clear coat
This video has been helping the community for damn near a decade now 🙏🏻
Girl, are you 2000 grit sandpaper? Because you're Super Fine! ~ Chris Fix
Hahaha how did you know that’s my pickup line?
ChrisFix lol
@@chrisfix 😂 badass!
That's "CRAZY SUPER FINE !"
Awwww girls go like awwww!!!
Just did ‘06 Pilot, After watching every video I possibly could, Chris’s made the most sense.
The only deviation I made was using Maguires headlight coating vs. clearcoat.
Couldn’t be more pleased with the results,
thanks Chris!
Great video! I like how you show us why we don't need to worry when the headlights don't look shiny after the first coat of clear gloss. It really helps to not overthink the results :)
Your pfp looks like a skin for Bdubs...
As a pro detailer. There is no such thing as permanent headlight restoration, but it’s cool to run across your diy video you seem pretty good at this stuff bro. GGs👊🏾🔥
Thanks! These headlights lasted years and didn't need any maintenance so I'd call it pretty permanent
Yes considering the average person keeps their car for 3-5 years for them it will be permanent you are absolutely right on that part. I meant more in a technical way that eventually it will oxidize just like the OEM UV coating due to the build quality of modern cars.
@@chrisfix the only thing bad about this stuff in my opinion is that it is much more difficult to sand off than your standard clear coat like meguiars because of the hardener. It also doesn’t allow the headlight to expand and breath properly if you live in the more harsh conditions that go from 40 degrees to 88 the next day. Obviously that’s just my experience :) keep making banger vids brotha🫶🏾
Just brought my dream car (2004 wrx) home this weekend, but the headlights are a little hazy so I'm gonna try this tomorrow. Thanks to you, I'm not afraid to work on my car myself!
That’s awesome!
you won't be disappointed ,i bought some crap from Pep Boys and it didn't work but what Chris showed us really works !
Here is an update over a year later on the how the headlights have held up: instagram.com/p/8iyExTOjFm/?taken-by=chrisfixit
+ChrisFix The clear coat got a little runny. How do I fix it, or should I just sand it off and try again?
+Erich Lavelle Same thing happened to me leaving "ridges". Sand it back to smooth and when you re-spray it hold the can much further away. Even if you have to make five applications spray just enough to cover the lens and keep repeating. I speak from experience having tried to rush the job on both headlights.
+Erich Lavelle go..bk.wit the 400 grit wet then work your way bk up to 1000
+Erich Lavelle Go over it with 1000 grit then 2000 grit then compound and then polish.
+ChrisFix The best and easiest way is to use Brasso.
Girl: you're from Jersey right? Say that thing again.
Chrisfix: *whispers* "Wuater"
Wooder*
lmao
Never get the soapy wooder too close to the electrizzity
My brothers met chris at a autozone in old bridge nj
Joey R. Get her a black guy she'll love you forever...
Thanks for teaching me more in 5 months about engine maintenance, care, parts repair and prevention on a lot of aspects from it, than my automotive career has done in 2.6 years, love your dedication!
Chris I never seen a UA-camr who responded to his old videos like you do. It might seem silly to hear this from a random guy on the internet but I'm proud of you my guy. Keep up the amazing work and never change!
Great video. One additional tip. Instead of constantly spraying water while wetsanding use a bucket with watet in it. Then just keep dipping the paper in the bucket every few seconds. It helps get the yellowed plastic particles your removing from building up on the wet paper. Which gives you clean paper every time you dip it in the bucket of water.
Thanks for the tip!
Did this today and gawdam, the headlights on my civic are looking so good. I was actually shopping for new lights until i remembered this video.
Thanks Chris. My bucket is looking more like a polished bucket now :)
I did this on my 2003 Honda Accord and it looks absolutely stunning. I thought I messed up because of the haze the next morning but the wet sand and polish did the trick. You’re the best Chris!!
I'm 15 and I'm getting my first used car soon! I get my license in a couple months and I can't wait. Your videos have been so helpful to me, thank you.
Awesome man!
Best thing is that yellowed lights make the car look lower value even if the rest of the car is perfect, so you can find a bargain that way, screw them down on the price and then you can fix the headlights yourself and win. :)
Brock Lewis where did you live. in my country you can get car drivers licence when you are 18
Sakari M - also in mine, but my brother got it with 16 in the navy what is away a magic fun.
Francisco Rompana ok
I followed these instructions in the video, and the headlights on my 03 Highlander look new! Amazing, just amazing. Thanks Chris!
I did this and applied the clear coat and it hazed up so what do I do now
You’re the best dude. I’m learning so much from you. Thank you for the high quality, in depth, step by step videos. And you have a great attitude as well. That makes a big difference. Gratitude, from Nashville, TN
This video came out 10 years ago and is still the most reliable source until now.
I'd go through all of this and my transmission would then go out or something.
Kevin Cody thats how it is lol
Man I feel your pain, that really sucks man. I hope things get better for you :)
luckily he has a video on that too :P
Lol
This is why I went w year and a half without fixing my AC
Hey Chris, what a great video! I just used this method to restore the headlights on my 2004 Mazda 6 and the results were amazing! The headlights went from being super yellowed and hazy on the outside, to perfectly clear! I would strongly recommend this to anyone wanting to restore their headlights. Cheers!
Hey Chris, I just did this and you saved me a couple hundred bucks plus the time to replace headlights that didnt need to be replaced. Thank you and I can send pics if you want them. Have a happy new year bro!
I'm glad the video saved you a few hundred dollars! Happy new year to you as well!
@@chrisfix I couldn’t find the gloss clear so I got matte clear clear coat is that okay?
@@christophermendez1607 I don't think you want anything that causes a matte effect for the headlight, but I could be wrong. I'm commenting to you so that your comment will get recognition from chrisfix and you might get an answer.
Keep thumbs upping people in this comment section and it will give Chris a notice that there is activity on this comment.
@@susieballard4957 thanks I ended up doing it and it didn’t come out as clear as I wanted but it wasn’t yellow anymore.
@@christophermendez1607 well, atleast it isn't yellow. I would try to do it over when you find the gloss though. But that's just me 🙃
finally did this on my 2009 Toyota Rav4 - I was nervous....it didn't look that much better after all the sanding... UNTIL i sprayed that clear coat. Amazingly clear results!! Thanks ChrisFix
I was like "how does this channel have 5.2* million subs?"......Then I watched a few of your vids and was like "Ohhhhhh, I see."
You have some great content.
Best channel on UA-cam! Period! This guy is great! Watch his other videos!
Los Lakers Thanks a lot man! I really appreciate it!
ChrisFix I agree.. the vids are great and manageable with step by step. However, like Michael Holmes, I followed each step and have the orange peel-y finish on the headlight I started with.....not clear. it is not 24 hr yet, so I am presuming I go ahead with the light sand etc to get the clarity? I can see the diff, it looks better, but it is not see thru as vid shows..... How would I know if I am light 2000 grit sanding off too much clear coat? and yes, I ordered the items you used from Amazon to follow the directions...
Hey chrisfix, I just discovered your videos by accident. I have a remodeling business so I great with my hands. My issue was I don't want to break things on cars but your vids definitely showed me that almost anyone car work on cars, at least the older ones. Great job bro!
Chris, I walked through the steps provided in this video yesterday and now have clear headlights. Thank you so much for saving me money.
Some people make good videos and a lot of people make bad videos, but you make FANTASTIC VIDEOS!!! Thank You!
I did this to my tooth, now i have a beautiful smile!
Al Southern I would use cape cod cloth on a gold tooth
Me to
:D
Copy cat
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
After 3 coats of clear gloss... There is some haziness from paint I believe. What shall I do to get absolutely clear glass now?
Wait a few days for the paint to harden and cure. Then wet sand with 2000 grit so it is uniformly hazy. Then move up to 3000 grit, then 5000 grit and then use a polish like this and buff it until crystal clear: amzn.to/2sJbZXk
Can a wax be used instead of this polish?
Buy a new headlight if you want perfectly clear glass.
wabash that makes no sense because headlights are plastic and the glass ones don't haze
sharkvshark i
I have a 2006 PT Cruiser convertible and followed Chris' instructions - worked like a charm; headlights look new - and yes, better to do it on the car - you have to removed the front wheels to get at the headlights!!! Great job and it was easy too.
You've definitely gotten more energetic in you're voice in recent years!!!💪🏽
I have been sanding on cracked headlights with 1,000 grit and 2500 grit sand paper on a 2003 buick rendezvos, and they look almost factory, and hey, I watch your videos, how cool is that, I am a big fan of your videos, I am a car and truck enthusiastic, I know alot about cars and trucks. Not only do I watch your videos for entertainment, I also watch them to get advise to help me progress in life, how to wash cars, and stuff like that
Awesome Aiden! Glad to hear it!
Thank you for the awesome video! I have a 10-yr-old Civic I'm trying to get more years out of. The engine is fine, it's the cosmetic stuff that's falling apart! This worked great! I'll add my two cents that after the 2000 grit, I used some plastic polish for the final sand. I'm so encouraged by the results, I'm going to watch more for my other projects!
I get you want to get more miles out of your Civic. Mine is 10 yrs and my hubby's is 12 yrs. Both run great!
My BMWs are each over 23 years old and still look great because they're not shitty hondas.
Broooooo! NAILED IT. Not only is your headlight restoration spot-on, but your video production is fantastic! Well done, sir!
My headlights were yellowed like old cellophane tape. Your video is the only technique for an permanent fix. Manufacturers love to sell temporary fixes so you keep buying their product. Why can't cars have glass lenses? Please note: in some states you can actually get a fix-it ticket if your lenses are too cloudy. A cloudy lens will not throw the light beam as far. If one has a little patience, your technique is quite easy. My lenses on my 14 year old truck now look new. Thank you for this video.
There were cars with glass lenses and honestly I think that tempered glass would do a fine job. I believe it's just a concern with durability.
I think it is a cost issue, much cheaper to make them out of plastic. To get the same proffit out of glass lenses they would have to charge an arm and a leg, people would buy but the volume would be so low that it is just more proffitable to use plastic. At least on the average car. Now high end vehicles may be different.
You have a great point there. Glass is expensive to get interesting shapes out of for mass production, whereas plastic injection is cheaper than air.
yixnorb I was told it was DOT regulations require plastic lens for protection to pedestrians believe it not... in cases where you hit one. In Europe, most all vehicles have the same lens' made of glass.. well I know BMW , MERCEDES, Audi do.. many people buy the euro glass lens through the aftermarket and swap out... much better light results with glass
not safety glass
I followed your instructions and the headlights on the Mazda 3 came out perfect. Bit of an effort, but one hell of a money saver.
Awesome! Glad the video was helpful!
vengefulvegan I just bought oems, $120 lasts five times longer
vengefulvegan I just did mine and I'm waiting to 24 hours for it to dry. It doesn't look super clear after I sprayed the clear coat on, do it dry clear after the 24 hour period?
I did this today. It’s totally do-able for the average person, and it came out beautiful!! I got a little over-exuberant with the final coat on one headlight and there’s a drip, but that’s my bad. Awesome video!
@Susan We must do this in the shade right? I’m wanting to do it, but it’s sunny everyday and I don’t have anywhere to do it under the shade
You are so clear with your instructions anyone can do this! Every time I thought of a question, you totally addressed it in the next clip. Thanks so much!