Sofia Martinez
Tail lights are an essential component of any car, but they can become scratched, scuffed, and dirty over time. While tail lights do not experience the same level of oxidation as headlights due to less exposure to direct sunlight, they still require regular cleaning and maintenance. This is where polishing comes in – by using a combination of wet sanding and polishing methods, car enthusiasts can effectively restore their tail lights, removing any fading or light scratching. The process typically involves sanding, polishing with a compound, and applying a protective wax or sealant. However, it's important to note that deeper scratches may require additional steps or professional attention. With proper care and maintenance, car owners can keep their tail lights in pristine condition, enhancing the appearance and safety of their vehicles.
Characteristics and Values Table for Polishing Plastic Tail Lights
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Every 6-12 months |
| Purpose | Remove oxidation, discolouration, light scratches, sun damage, swirl marks and dirt |
| Method | Wet sanding and polishing, using a lens restoration kit, soapy water, a buffer pad, a sealant or coating, a polisher or cleaner, or toothpaste |
| Tools | Sandpaper (1500 grit and 2000 grit), polishing compound, soft lint-free cloth, wax, microfiber cloths, Turtle Wax Speed Lens Restorer Kit, Rupes Yellow Pad, Gtechniq sealant, hose, microfiber towel, ceramic sealant wipe, buffer, towel |
| Time | 15 minutes or less |
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Wet sanding
To begin the wet sanding process, it is recommended to first wash the vehicle to remove any dirt or debris that could contaminate the restoration process. This is an important step as it ensures that dirt does not get stuck in the sandpaper or polishing compound, which could result in further scratching or an uneven finish.
The next step is to soak the sandpaper in water or a water and soap mixture. The sandpaper grit can vary depending on the condition of the tail light and the level of scratches or imperfections. It is common to start with a lower grit, such as 800 or 1000, and gradually increase to a finer grit, such as 1500 or 2000. The sandpaper should be kept wet throughout the process, and light pressure should be applied, allowing the grit of the sandpaper to do the work. This step will likely take a few minutes, depending on the condition of the tail light and the desired level of imperfection removal.
Once the wet sanding is complete, the tail light should be rinsed and dried. It is then ready for the application of a polishing compound, which will further remove any scratches or imperfections and enhance the clarity and shine of the tail light. The polishing compound should be applied with a soft, lint-free cloth or a buffer pad in a circular motion. This step may require multiple applications of the compound until the desired result is achieved.
After the polishing compound has been applied and the tail light has been buffed, it is important to wipe down the tail light with a clean cloth to remove any excess compound and to reveal the shine of the light. At this point, a wax can be applied to maximize the shine and provide a protective layer. This wax can be applied using a microfiber applicator pad, and then removed and buffed with a microfiber cloth.
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Polishing
First, wash your vehicle to remove any dirt that could contaminate the restoration process. Next, if you wish, tape off the paint around the light to avoid damaging the surface. Then, pre-soak the sandpaper in a bucket of water and spray the light with soapy water. Start with 1500-grit sandpaper, removing any scrubbed or scratched areas, and be sure to keep rinsing the sandpaper and keeping the surface wet. Once you are satisfied, move on to 2000-grit sandpaper around the whole light, continuing to keep the sandpaper and surface wet.
Rinse the light and ensure it is mostly dry. Using a polishing compound and a soft, lint-free cloth, apply the compound and work it into the surface. You may need to apply the compound a few times. Once satisfied, clean the light to ensure there is no leftover compound or wax. Finally, apply the wax of your choice using a microfiber applicator pad, working it into the surface.
Alternative methods include using toothpaste, a combination protectant, cleaner, and polisher, or a lens restoration kit.
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Removing scratches
Another method is to use a combination protectant, cleaner, and polisher, such as Armor All or Chemical Guys cleaners. These products can be sprayed onto the tail lights and left to sit for around 5-10 minutes. This allows the product to work into the scratches. After this, the tail lights can be wiped down with a clean cloth or towel to remove any excess product and give them a shine.
Additionally, toothpaste can be used to remove scratches. A small amount of toothpaste should be spread over the tail light, and then rubbed in with a towel or buffer. It is important to start with a small area and gradually move to larger areas to avoid dried-on toothpaste. After rubbing in the toothpaste, the tail lights should be wiped down with a clean rag to check for any missed spots.
Wet sanding is another effective method for removing scratches. This involves pre-soaking sandpaper in water and spraying the tail light with soapy water. Starting with 1500-grit sandpaper, gently sand the tail light, removing any scratched areas. Be sure to keep the sandpaper and the surface wet. Then, move on to 2000-grit sandpaper and sand the entire light, again keeping the surface wet. Once done, rinse and mostly dry the tail light. Next, use a polishing compound and a soft, lint-free cloth to work the compound into the surface. Finally, apply wax to the light using a microfiber applicator pad.
Finally, plastic polishes designed for auto plastic, such as Turtle Wax or Meguiars PlastX, can be used to remove light scratches. These polishes are applied to the tail light and then buffed out using a buffer pad. This method can also help remove deeper scratches that the sandpaper couldn't remove.
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Using toothpaste
Toothpaste can be used to polish plastic tail lights and restore them to their original clarity. First, clean the tail lights with soap and water. Then, wet sand the lens with 400-grit sandpaper. Next, take a clean rag and put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on it. Begin polishing the lens with the rag until the toothpaste is entirely gone. Finally, wipe down the lens with a clean part of the rag. You can also repeat this process using a baking soda paste instead of toothpaste.
It is important to note that toothpaste with whitening agents, baking soda, or abrasive particles should be avoided as they may damage the lens.
Additionally, tail lights are coated with a UV protection layer from the factory. Polishing removes this coating, so it is important to protect the lights from re-oxidation when you are done. A good sealant or coating can be applied to prevent oxidation.
There are also dedicated car light cleaner kits available that can be used to restore tail lights. These kits typically include a polishing pad, a lens repair and renew compound, and sealing wipes.
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Applying sealant
To apply sealant to your plastic tail lights, you will first need to clean the surface. Wash your car to remove any dirt or debris, then tape off the paint around the light to avoid damaging the surface.
Next, you can begin the process of sealing the tail lights:
- Remove the plastic trim piece in the trunk. It is usually held in place by simple clips, so carefully pry it off.
- Remove the trunk carpet by taking out the two push clips, typically located near the trunk carpet.
- Pull back the trunk carpet to access the tail light area.
- Take out the reverse light and the tail light/turn signal light from their housing. These are usually attached with quarter-turn fasteners.
- Using a 1/2" wrench, remove the three nuts on each housing that hold it to the car.
- Remove the tail light housing from the car. You may need to gently push on the studs from inside the trunk to release it.
- Clean the seal surface and the mating surface on the car with a clean rag to ensure there is no dirt or residue.
- Apply a generous amount of sealant to the seal. You can use a product like Permatex Ultra Black, which costs around $5 for a tube and is available at Auto Zone, Advance Auto, or Pep Boy's. Alternatively, you can use an exterior-grade silicone sealant in a caulking tube.
- Spread the sealant evenly around the edges of the tail light housing.
- Reinstall the tail light housing into the car, being careful not to get sealant on other surfaces.
- Maintain pressure on the housing while tightening the nuts in the trunk. When putting the nuts back on, place them over the stud and slowly turn them left. You will feel the nut settle into the threads, preventing stripping.
- Ensure all the nuts are snug but not too tight, as they are made of plastic.
- Reinstall the reverse and tail light/turn signal lights.
The entire process should take around 30-45 minutes per side, but it is always good to allow extra time.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use the wet sanding and polishing method to remove fading and light scratching. Start by washing your car to remove any dirt, then tape off the paint around the light to avoid damaging the surface. Pre-soak the sandpaper and spray the light with soapy water before sanding. After sanding, apply a polishing compound and finish by applying wax.
Start with 1500 grit sandpaper to quickly remove most of the damage, then move on to 2000 grit to fine-tune the results. Remember to keep the sandpaper and the surface wet throughout the process.
You can use a plastic polish designed for auto plastic, such as Turtle Wax. Alternatively, you can use toothpaste, spreading a generous amount over the tail light before buffing it with a towel or buffer.
It is recommended to clean and restore your tail lights with a car light cleaner every 6-12 months to maintain their clarity and smoothness.
After polishing, you can apply a sealant or coating to protect your tail lights from oxidation and discoloration. A ceramic sealant, such as the one included in the Turtle Wax kit, can provide long-lasting protection and a glossy finish.
