Maya Ellison
Replacing the plastic headlight lens covers on your car is a straightforward process that can be done at home with a few tools. The first step is to remove the screws from the headlight and place them in a small cup to avoid misplacing them. Then, disconnect the bulbs from the headlight backing by pinching their base and turning them counter-clockwise. At this point, you can separate the lens from the headlight backing by gently prying it off with a flathead screwdriver. When installing the new lens, align it with the channel in the backing, clamp it in place, and screw it on. Finally, apply a good weather-sealing glue to prevent moisture from entering the headlight. This process is a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire headlight assembly, which can be expensive, especially for xenon or LED headlights.
Characteristics and Values Table for Replacing Headlight Lens Plastic Covers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of replacement lenses | $40-50 |
| Cost of aftermarket headlights | $200 |
| Cost of weather sealing glue | $30 for a small tube |
| Tools required | Heat gun, plastic spreader, oven, screwdriver, clamps, paper towels, sealant, sandpaper, grit sandpaper, painter's tape, UV-resistant clear coat |
| Techniques | Heat gun to soften adhesive, oven to soften sealant, polishing, acetone vapour bath, toothpaste application, sanding, clear coat spray paint |
| Considerations | Avoid melting plastic, be gentle with tabs to avoid breaking, remove all screws, disconnect bulbs, mask off body and bumper, repeat process yearly |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the old plastic cover
The next step is to disconnect the bulbs from the headlight backing. Locate the backs of the bulbs, pinch their base, and turn them counterclockwise to loosen them. Now, you will need to heat the headlight to soften the adhesive holding the lens and backing together. You can use an oven on a low temperature or a heat gun for this.
Once the adhesive is softened, use a plastic spreader to gently separate the lens from the backing, working in small sections at a time. Alternatively, carefully use a flathead screwdriver to pry the lens off, positioning it in the seam between the lens and backing, and tilting the handle down toward the backing to lift the lens out. Be gentle, as the plastic tabs holding the lens can break easily.
Finally, scrape off any remaining old sealant from the backing with a screwdriver. It is best to do this while the sealant is still warm and malleable. If it has solidified, soften it again in the oven. Removing the old sealant is important to ensure a proper seal when installing the new cover.
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$79.99
Softening the adhesive
Another method is to use adhesive removers, such as 3M adhesive remover or Valet Pro Glue and Tar Remover. These products can be effective in breaking down the adhesive and making it easier to scrape off. However, it's important to test them on a small area first to ensure they don't damage the plastic.
Wet sanding is another technique that can be used to remove adhesive. This involves using sandpaper and water to gradually sand away the adhesive residue. However, it's important to be cautious as this method can grind the adhesive into the headlight, causing scratches or other damage.
Additionally, some people have found success using steam to soften and remove the adhesive. This method can be time-consuming, but it can be effective when combined with an adhesive remover. Polishing compounds can also be used to remove minor adhesive residue and restore clarity to the lens.
In some cases, the adhesive may have reacted with the plastic lenses, causing discolouration or marking. In these instances, it may not be possible to completely remove the adhesive, and replacement lenses may be the best option. It's important to assess the condition of your lenses and choose the most appropriate removal method to avoid further damage.
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Cleaning the headlight backing
To clean the headlight backing, begin by identifying the cause of the discolouration. Most haze or fogginess is caused by a build-up of dirt, grime, and other contaminants on the surface of the lens. This external problem can be easily remedied by scrubbing the lens with a mild cleanser and a soft cloth. Ensure that you remove all dirt and residue, as sanding without proper cleaning can result in an uneven surface.
Fill a bucket with warm water and car wash soap. Avoid using household cleaners or dish soap, as these may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the plastic lens. Wash the headlight lens, paying close attention to removing all contaminants. Rinse the lens with plain water and dry it completely with a soft, dry cloth.
If the haze is more severe or appears internally, it may be caused by condensation or a breach in the seal. In this case, you will need to remove the headlight assembly and clean the inside with a microfiber cloth. Ensure that the cloth is free of any cleaning agents that could damage the lens. Dry the headlight thoroughly, and reseal any damaged areas with a suitable weather-sealing glue to prevent future moisture ingress.
For more intensive cleaning, you can use power tools such as a cotton buffing wheel on an angle grinder or felt roloc polishing pads with a drill or die grinder. If using power tools, be cautious not to heat the plastic surface excessively, as this could cause damage. Additionally, sanding your headlights can be an effective method, but it should not be a frequent practice as it can lead to an uneven surface over time.
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Attaching the new plastic cover
To attach the new plastic cover, first ensure that the old sealant has been removed from the backing. Place the tip of your screwdriver in the channel around the edge of the headlight backing and run it around the entire perimeter to remove any excess sealant.
Next, align the new lens with the channel in the backing and press it down firmly to reseal the light. Feed the screws through the holes in the backing and turn them clockwise with a screwdriver until they're tight, securing the headlight assembly. It is okay if some of the sealants drip out and you can wipe off any excess with a paper towel.
To ensure the lens is secure, place clamps in the corners of the headlight and then place one or two more clamps on each side, evenly spaced. You will also need to buy a good weather-sealing glue to reattach the new headlight cover and prevent moisture from getting inside.
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Clamping the new plastic cover in place
Firstly, ensure you have the correct clamps for the job. It is recommended to use heat-resistant or metal clamps that can withstand oven temperatures without warping or melting. These clamps will be used to hold the lens and backing together, so they need to be durable.
Now, align the new plastic cover with the headlight backing. This step requires precision to ensure the lens is positioned correctly. Gently place the new cover onto the backing, making sure it fits snugly and that there is no shifting or misalignment.
Once the new cover is in place, it's time to apply the clamps. Start by placing clamps in the corners of the headlight to hold the lens securely. Then, add one or two more clamps to each side of the headlight, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This will provide even pressure and prevent any shifting during the sealing process.
At this stage, you can place the headlight back into the oven for a few minutes to allow the sealant to fill in around the lens and create a watertight seal. This step helps to ensure that your headlights are protected from moisture, which can cause bulb breakage or electrical issues.
After removing the headlight from the oven, let it cool down. Once it is cool to the touch, you can proceed to reattach the bulbs to the backing. Push the bulbs firmly into the ports and turn them clockwise to secure them in place.
By following these steps, you will have effectively clamped the new plastic cover in place, ensuring a secure and functional headlight assembly. Remember to consult your vehicle's manual or seek professional advice if you encounter any challenges during the process.
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Frequently asked questions
Place the headlight upside down on a soft surface to prevent scratches. Remove any screws from the headlight, then disconnect the bulbs from the headlight backing by pinching the base and turning it counter-clockwise. Pop the tabs holding the lens to the headlight backing, being careful not to break them. Finally, pry the lens off with a flathead screwdriver.
Align the new lens with the channel in the backing and press it down to reseal the light. Secure the headlight assembly by screwing the lens onto the backing, turning the screws clockwise with a screwdriver.
It is possible to restore your old headlight lens cover by polishing it or using a refinishing kit. However, these methods may not last long, and it can be difficult to restore the factory seal. Buying a replacement lens cover is a more permanent solution, and it may be more cost-effective than restoring your old one.
When buying a replacement lens cover, ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle's specific make and model. Additionally, consider the type of lights your car uses, as halogen lights are generally less expensive to replace than xenon or LED headlights. Don't forget to purchase weather sealing glue to reattach the new lens cover securely and prevent moisture from getting inside.
