Cleaning Your Headlights with Everyday Home Supplies
Did foggy headlamps catch you in a pinch? If you don't have time to visit an auto parts dealer near you, a few everyday home essentials can help you clean them!
Supplies
- White vinegar
- Baking soda*
- Toothpaste with baking soda (can be used instead of vinegar-baking soda mixture)
- Water
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Spray bottle
- Plastic cup
- Microfiber cloth
Steps
- In your plastic cup, create a paste consisting of two parts white vinegar and one part baking soda. Then, pour tap water into your spray bottle.
- Apply a thin layer of the vinegar-baking soda mixture to your headlights, paying particular attention to dirtier areas.
- Let the mixture sit for five to ten minutes before gently brushing it in with the soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Repeat steps two and three on stubborn spots, if necessary.
- Use your spray bottle to mist tap water on the headlights before wiping them dry with your microfiber cloth. Repeat as many times as needed to ensure there's no baking soda - vinegar residue left behind.
Cleaning Your Headlights with Specialized Kits
Many auto supply stores carry specialized headlight cleaning kits that drivers can use at home. These are typically on the more expensive end. However, their pricing (and features) vary from one product to the next. Below, you'll find a few “typical” supplies and instructions that you can expect to find on these cleaners. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you're applying them correctly.
Supplies
- Sandpaper or similar buffing implement
- Cleaning solution
- Wax or polish
- Sponge
Steps
- Pre-treat your headlights following the instructions on the kit. Typically, this will involve buffing them with a slightly abrasive material such as sandpaper.
- Apply the cleaning solution that comes with the kit.
- Depending on your cleaning kit, you may need to let the solution sit for a couple of minutes.
- Wipe the cleaner off using a damp sponge or water.
- Once the headlights dry, apply wax (if included) following the manufacturer's instructions.
Dealing with Headlights That Stay Foggy Post-Cleaning
Are your INFINITI's headlights still dirty after trying a natural cleaner, a specialized kit, or BOTH? In some cases, moisture and contamination can seep into your headlight's lens, leading to condensation and discoloration. Not only will this affect visibility (and your INFINITI's look), but if left unchecked, it can also corrode the metal parts inside the assembly, leading to more expensive repairs and inconveniences.
What Causes Condensation Inside Headlights
- Parking in a humid space with little to no sunshine
- Faulty gaskets or worn rubber seals
- Aftermarket headlamp parts
- Blocked vents within the headlight assembly
- Improper headlight installation
- Regular wear and tear
Tackling Fog From the Inside-Out
With time and use, condensation within the lamps is almost inevitable. And when it happens, it usually means one thing — your INFINITI is due for new headlights. The good news is that this can be fixed quickly and easily with authentic INFINITI headlamp parts.
Shop INFINITI Parts & Accessories online to find headlight components designed to fit your specific model, year, and trim. Have your authentic parts shipped to your home for DIY installation, or visit a certified service center near you for professional assembly.