Omar Khalid
Tail lights are an important feature of any car, but they can become dirty, faded, or scratched over time. To keep them in good condition, it is recommended to clean and polish them regularly. This process can involve wet sanding, using a plastic polish, or applying a lens restoration kit to remove any oxidation and restore the original clarity of the lenses. The tail lights should then be buffed and waxed to achieve a shiny finish and protect against future damage. This guide will explore the various methods and products available for polishing plastic tail lights, ensuring they look as good as new.
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What You'll Learn
Wet sanding
Preparation:
Before starting the wet sanding process, it is important to gather the necessary materials and prepare the tail light. First, wash the vehicle to remove any dirt or contaminants that may interfere with the process. You can also tape off the area around the tail light with paint using tape to protect it from accidental damage. Next, soak the sandpaper in water to prepare it for wet sanding. It is recommended to have different grits of sandpaper, such as 1000, 1500, and 2000, to tackle the imperfections effectively.
Once the sandpaper is soaked, spray the tail light with soapy water or use a squirt bottle to keep the surface wet during the process. Start with the 1000 grit sandpaper and gently sand the tail light, removing any scratches or imperfections. It is important to apply light pressure and let the grit of the sandpaper do the work. Remember to keep the sandpaper and the surface wet throughout the process. Work on the affected areas until you can't feel the scratches with your fingers.
Transitioning Grits:
After sanding with the 1000 grit, dry off the tail light. It may look cloudy at this point, but that is expected. Next, move on to the 1500 grit sandpaper and sand in the opposite direction. For example, if you sanded vertically with the 1000 grit, now do it horizontally. This process helps to refine the scratches made by the previous grit. Once you're satisfied, dry off the tail light again.
Final Steps:
Now, transition to the 2000 grit sandpaper and sand in the same direction as you started with the 1000 grit. This final step will help smooth out the surface and prepare it for polishing. Once you're done, the tail light should feel smooth to the touch. Rinse off the tail light and ensure it is mostly dry before moving on to the polishing process.
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Applying toothpaste
Toothpaste can be used to clean and polish tail lights. It is a good alternative to wet sanding, which is another method used to clean tail lights.
Firstly, clean the tail lights with soap and water. This will remove any loose dirt and soils from the lights. Once you have removed all the dirt, rinse the lights thoroughly with water and pat them dry with a microfiber towel.
Next, grab a clean rag and put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on it. It is important to note that you should not use whitening toothpaste that has baking soda or abrasive particles in it. Start polishing the lens with the toothpaste until it is entirely gone.
After you have finished polishing, wipe down the lens with a clean part of the rag. This will show you if you have missed any spots and where you might need to go over again.
You can also repeat the process with a baking soda paste instead of toothpaste.
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Using a plastic polish
To polish your car's tail lights, you can use a plastic polish. Firstly, wash your car to remove any dirt that could contaminate the restoration process. Next, gently wet sand the tail light. Dip the sandpaper in clean water and gently run it over the surface of the tail light for about a minute, without applying too much pressure to avoid deep scratches.
After sanding, apply a plastic polish. You can use any plastic polish, but some are made specifically for auto plastic. Apply two dollops of the polish to the tail light and spread it out with a buffer pad. This will help buff out scratches caused by the sandpaper and deeper scratches.
Once you're done buffing, wipe down the tail light with a clean cloth to remove any excess polish and add shine. You can also use toothpaste to clean the tail lights, but be sure to rinse off any dirt or debris first so it doesn't get stuck in the toothpaste.
Finally, apply wax of your choice to the light using a microfiber applicator pad. Work it into the surface to maximize shine and provide a protective layer. Then, remove and buff with a microfiber cloth. This process will help restore your tail lights and keep them looking shiny and protected.
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Buffing
Start by choosing the right tools and materials. You will need a polishing compound or plastic polish specifically designed for automotive plastic. Common brands like Turtle Wax offer effective products for this purpose. Additionally, you'll require a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber towel, and optionally, a buffer pad or a microfiber applicator pad.
Before beginning the buffing process, ensure that your tail lights are thoroughly cleaned and dried. Remove any dirt, debris, or oxidation that may be present on the surface. This step is crucial as it ensures that you are working on a clean surface and prevents contaminants from being rubbed into the finish during buffing.
Once your tail lights are prepared, it's time to apply the polishing compound or plastic polish. Squeeze a quarter-sized drop of the product onto your cloth or directly onto the tail light surface. Spread the product evenly across the surface, ensuring complete coverage. If using a polishing compound, you may need to apply a few coats for the best results.
Now, it's time to buff. Using your chosen cloth or buffer pad, work the product into the surface of the tail light using gentle, circular motions. Apply light to moderate pressure and maintain an even speed. This process will help remove scratches, haze, and oxidation, restoring the clarity and shine of the plastic. Take your time with this step, as thorough buffing is key to achieving the desired results.
After buffing, inspect your work. Ensure that all scratches and haze have been removed and that the tail light surface is smooth and clear. If necessary, repeat the process of applying the polishing compound or plastic polish and buffing until you are satisfied with the results.
Finally, wipe down the tail lights with a clean, soft cloth to remove any excess product and to reveal the sparkling finish. This step ensures that your tail lights are free of any residue and showcases the clarity and shine you've worked to achieve.
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Sealing
Firstly, you should ensure that the tail light is clean and dry. If you have been using a wax product, make sure there is no residue left on the light. You can use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the light and ensure it is completely dry.
Next, you can apply a sealant or coating. You can use a sealant designed for car paint, but for better protection, a product designed for this purpose is recommended. Gtechniq is one such product line. Apply the sealant according to the manufacturer's instructions, which may vary depending on the product.
You should also consider applying coats of wax to the light, which will prevent fading and keep them shiny. Car wax can be applied with a microfiber applicator pad, and then buffed with a microfiber cloth. This will provide a protective layer and help to maintain the tail light's shine.
By following these steps, you can effectively seal and protect your polished plastic tail lights, ensuring they remain in good condition and do not re-oxidize.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to clean and restore your tail lights with a car light cleaner every 6-12 months.
You can use a combination protectant, cleaner, and polisher, such as Armor All or Chemical Guys cleaners. You can also use a plastic polish, such as Turtle Wax, and a buffer pad.
First, wash your car to remove any dirt. Then, gently sand the tail light using sandpaper with around 2000 grit. Rinse the tail light and ensure it is mostly dry. Apply a polishing compound and work it into the surface using a soft, lint-free cloth. Finally, apply wax using a microfiber applicator pad and buff the light.
Over time, the protective coating on tail lights wears off, and the plastic of the lenses degrades due to exposure to the sun's UV rays. This can cause oxidation and discolouration, making the lights look cloudy and reducing their effectiveness. Polishing removes this oxidized layer and restores clarity to the lenses.
After polishing, you can apply a sealant or coating to prevent re-oxidation. Gtechniq is a recommended product line for this purpose. Regularly applying coats of wax to the lights will also help to prevent fading and provide a protective layer.
