The Problem - since the late 1980's, most automobile and light truck headlights have been made out of polycarbonate, a type of plastic. This material gives the auto maker greater design freedom than conventional glass headlights. Polycarbonate is impact resistant and easily formed into complex shapes.
Unfortunately, polycarbonate is also very porous and easily damaged by ultraviolet exposure from the sun. To seal and protect the polycarbonate, headlight makers apply a protective outer coating during manufacture. It is the breakdown of this coating which causes the yellowing and cloudiness.
Until recently, the only solution was to replace the entire headlight assembly, which can easily cost hundreds of dollars per lens.
The hazard is when headlights deteriorate, light is scattered and is not projected forward where you need it. The ability to see clearly in front of you can be reduced up to 75% producing a major safety hazard! This is especially dangerous on unlit winding roads or during bad weather. When headlights get this bad, many drivers will continuously drive with their high beams on in an attempt to see where they are going. If you are an owner of vehicles, you may incur some liability if you allow a car or truck with significantly deteriorated headlights to operate in your fleet.
A simple process to remove the old protective coating and replace it with a new one is the only way to produce a clear lens that can withstand damaging sunlight. There are now products that can be used to remove only the damaged UV coating. No high speed puffing or sanding is necessary. The plastic has to be protected from future damage however, so a new protective layer similar to the original is brushed on the lenses. This process will offer years of protection from damaging UV light and road debris. This unique hard coating is tough enough to repel impacts and flexible enough to expand and contract with temperature changes. The hard coating is absolute imperative to protect the headlight lenses from damage. Just using waxes or spray protectant on the lenses is not enough.
These products are only available to headlight restoration companies at this time and are not offered for retail sales. Automotive headlights will need some maintenance as they age to keep the vehicle looking its best and lighting the roadways the way they were designed.
Take the time to take a look at yours, for you and your families' safe driving.
