Prevent and treat headlight cloudiness

Headlights serve to improve visibility during nighttime driving conditions and inclement weather. They help drivers see and be seen by other motorists. When headlights are dull and cloudy, they can prove to be a safety hazard on the road. Fortunately, there are ways to restore headlights to their full effectiveness.

Driving during the day is easier than driving at night, when vision is easily compromised. A human's visual field is much smaller in the dark, and it can be harder to spot road hazards, animals or people when driving at night. An improperly lit driving area can make it much more difficult to see. It also impairs others' ability to see your vehicle coming and going. The National Institute for Traffic and Highway Safety says the No. 1 reason for severe nighttime accidents and reduced driving safety is dim or cloudy and improperly lit headlights. Also, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that nearly 4 out of 5 drivers drive with improperly lit headlights.

There are a few different reasons for poor headlight illumination. In many instances, the headlight lamp has burned out and the light is no longer working. Old bulbs may dim and fail to provide the same level of illumination as they once did. Oxidized and cloudy headlight coverings are also a known contributor to diminished headlight function.

Today's headlight lenses are made from plastic. While it may not be visible immediately, road debris and weather conditions can put small dings and scratches into the lenses over time. These small damages can add up to covers that look dingy and dull. Cloudiness also occurs as the result of exposure to ultraviolet light. Although newer cars have lenses that are supposed to resist scratching and damage, some dulling may occur.

There are many headlight cleaning kits on the market that are quite effective at restoring the lenses to their original glory. Most of these kits use a series of buffers and polishers to gently buff out scratches and rid the headlights of oxidation. Because headlight lens replacement may cost upwards of $200 per lens, the kits are much more cost effective.

A car owner can also perform similar maintenance with just a few items from the hardware store and automotive shop. Employ incremental grits of sandpaper to clean the headlights without causing further damage. In addition, cutting compounds and surface cleaners can be applied with electric buffers to clean the sandpaper grit and any other debris caught in the headlights. Plastic polishers can further increase the shine of the headlights and make them look new.

The key to keeping headlights looking their best is to be on top of any damage taking place. Handling minor cloudiness is much easier than a complete headlight overhaul. Routinely inspect the headlights and check for damage.