Polishing Car Headlights with Sandpaper Sheets (600–3000 Grit Guide)

Cloudy, yellowed headlights don’t just make your car look old—they also reduce visibility at night. Restoring headlights with sandpaper is one of the most effective and affordable DIY fixes. Using eQualle 9x11 inch wet/dry sandpaper sheets in the correct grit sequence brings back clarity and brightness.

Why Headlight Sanding Works

Plastic headlights degrade over time due to UV rays, road debris, and weather. Sanding removes the damaged outer layer, leaving a smooth surface ready for polishing and sealing. This method restores clarity without replacing the headlight housing.

Tools You’ll Need

• Masking tape
• Spray bottle with water
• Microfiber cloths
• Polishing compound
• UV sealant
• eQualle 9x11 in Wet/Dry Sandpaper Sheets

Best Sandpaper Grits for Headlight Restoration

• 600 Grit (50-pack) — Starts the resurfacing process, removing oxidation.
• 1000 Grit (25-pack) — Refines scratches left from coarse sanding.
• 2000 Grit (100-pack) — Smooths the lens before polishing.
• 3000 Grit (50-pack) — Final ultra-fine sanding for glass-like clarity.

Step-by-Step: Restoring Headlights with Sandpaper

1. Prep the headlights. Wash the lens with soap and water. Dry and tape around the headlights to protect paint.
2. Wet sand with 600 grit. Spray water on the headlight and sand in horizontal strokes. Keep the surface wet to avoid damage.
3. Switch to 1000 grit. Sand in vertical strokes, removing scratches from the previous grit.
4. Refine with 2000 grit. Use light pressure and plenty of water for a smooth surface.
5. Finish with 3000 grit. This step restores near-clarity and prepares the lens for polishing.
6. Polish & seal. Apply polishing compound with a microfiber cloth, then seal with UV protectant.

Special Cases

If headlights are severely pitted, start with 400 grit before moving up the sequence. For slightly hazy lenses, you may begin at 1000 grit and skip 600.

Pro Tips

• Always sand in alternating directions with each grit to ensure even coverage.
• Work slowly—rushing can leave swirl marks or uneven clarity.
• Reapply UV sealant every 6–12 months to maintain results.

Aftercare

• Wash headlights regularly to remove road film.
• Park in shaded areas to reduce UV exposure.
• Repeat light sanding with 2000–3000 grit if haze returns.

FAQs

• How long will the restoration last? Typically 1–2 years with proper UV sealing.
• Can I use the same sandpaper for both headlights? Yes, but replace sheets if they clog.
• Do I need a drill or buffer? Not required, but a buffer with polishing compound speeds up results.

Watch & Learn

Bring headlights back to life with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry). Shop the full fine grit collection for your next restoration project.