Headlights play a very important role in driving. Not only do they allow you to see the road in front of you, but they also let oncoming drivers see your vehicle. Over time, headlights can become foggy and cloudy, which greatly reduces their visibility. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference that headlight restoration can make and when it is necessary to restore or replace them.
What Causes Headlight Fogginess?
There are a few different things that can cause headlight fogginess. The most common cause is UV damage from the sun. This can cause the plastic lens to become yellowed and cloudy. Another common cause is road debris, which can scratch or pit the lens. Finally, age and weathering can also contribute to cloudiness.
How Much Does Headlight Fogginess Affect Visibility?
Research by AAA shows that foggy headlights can reduce the amount of light output by nearly 80% as compared to new lenses. This can make it very difficult to see at night or in bad weather. Not being able to see clearly can lead to accidents, so it is important to make sure your headlights are in good condition.
How Much of a Difference Does Headlight Restoration Make?
Headlight restoration can make a big difference in the amount of light output. A professional headlight restoration will usually be able to restore the headlights to nearly 80–90% of their original condition. This can significantly improve visibility and safety while driving.
DIY Headlight Kits vs. Professional Restoration Services
There are many DIY headlight kits available on the market. These kits usually come with everything you need to restore your headlights. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before using one of these kits. First, make sure you read the instructions carefully. Don’t use harsh chemicals on your headlights, as this can damage them further. Finally, if your headlights are severely damaged, it may be best to leave the restoration to a professional.
Professional headlight restoration will usually cost between $50 and $200. If your headlights are severely damaged, you may have to completely replace your headlights rather than just restore them.
When to Replace vs. Restore Headlights
If your headlights are only lightly fogged, you can probably get away with just restoring them. However, if they are severely damaged or yellowed, you may need to replace them. Replacing headlights is usually more expensive than restoring them, but your new headlights will last longer so you don’t have to worry about restoring them again anytime soon. Your local auto repair shop will be able to help you know when the damage to your headlights requires replacement instead of just restoration.
Add Headlights to Your Inspection Routine
Headlights should be added to your regular vehicle inspection routine. This way, you can catch any damage early and either restore or replace them before it becomes a safety hazard.
Need to Restore Your Headlights?
We hope this blog post has helped you understand the difference that headlight restoration can make. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at Valley Collision. We would be happy to help you restore your headlights and improve your visibility while driving!
