How to Sand Car Headlights for Crystal Clear Restoration (600–3000 Grit Guide)

Foggy, yellowed headlights make your car look older and reduce nighttime visibility. Instead of replacing them, you can restore clarity with a proper sanding and polishing process. Using the right grit sequence, you’ll remove oxidation, smooth the surface, and bring headlights back to like-new condition.

Why Sanding Works for Headlight Restoration

Headlights are made of polycarbonate plastic, which oxidizes and turns cloudy over time. Sanding removes the damaged outer layer, exposing fresh material underneath. Step-by-step sanding, followed by polishing and sealing, ensures a clear, long-lasting finish.

Best Sandpaper Grits for Headlights

• 600 grit: Initial cut to remove heavy oxidation and scratches.
• 1000 grit: Smoothing the surface after coarse sanding.
• 2000 grit: Pre-polish refinement.
• 3000 grit: Ultra-fine sanding before polishing for crystal clarity.

Tools You’ll Need

• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (600–3000 grit).
• Spray bottle with water for lubrication.
• Masking tape to protect paint around headlights.
• Polishing compound and microfiber cloths.
• UV sealant for long-lasting protection.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Car Headlights

1. Prep the area. Wash headlights and tape off surrounding paint.
2. Start with 600 grit. Wet sand using 600 grit (50-pack) to strip oxidation.
3. Smooth with 1000 grit. Refine scratches with 1000 grit (100-pack) for a more even surface.
4. Refine further with 2000 grit. Use 2000 grit (25-pack) to prepare for final polish.
5. Finish with 3000 grit. Achieve a glass-like surface with 3000 grit (50-pack) sheets before polishing.
6. Polish & seal. Apply compound with a microfiber pad, then finish with UV sealant to protect against future yellowing.

Special Cases

If headlights are lightly oxidized, you can skip the 600 grit and start with 1000 grit. For very severe damage, repeat the 600 grit step twice before moving on.

Pro Tips

• Always keep the surface wet while sanding to avoid scratches.
• Sand in straight lines, alternating directions with each grit.
• Apply UV protection after polishing—without it, headlights will re-yellow quickly.

Aftercare

• Wash headlights regularly to prevent buildup.
• Reapply UV sealant every 6–12 months.
• A quick hand polish every few months keeps headlights clear longer.

FAQs

• Do I need a power buffer? Not required—hand polishing works, but a buffer speeds up results.
• Will toothpaste work? Toothpaste can polish slightly, but it doesn’t remove deeper oxidation like sanding.
• How long will it last? With proper UV protection, results can last 1–2 years.

Watch & Learn

Restore your headlights with the right grit sequence: Get wet/dry sheets in 25, 50, and 100 packs for complete DIY restoration. Shop super fine sandpaper.