So Fix it

How to Fix a Scuff Mark on a Headlight

Plastic headlight covers are prone to physical damage due to their prominent position at the front of the vehicle. Proximity to the bumper, front grille and molding offers only marginal protection from contact with foliage and other commonly encountered driving hazards. An object brushing the face of the headlamp can scuff it, as the polycarbonate material is rather soft and easily damaged. Fortunately, the softness of the material simplifies the removal of superficial scratches and scuffs by using common tools and techniques.

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle in a well-lit area.

2

Apply low-tack tape to the painted area adjacent to the scuffed headlight. Use wide tape or make several passes of narrow tape to make certain you have a generous area of protection around the headlight.

3

Wipe the headlight, using a wet rag to remove all foreign material. Scrape any paint residue or debris from the scuff with a fingernail or a piece of 320-grit sandpaper.

4

Attach a piece of 320-grit sandpaper on the rubber sanding block. Spray water on the scuff and on the sandpaper. Sand the damaged area by using the sandpaper and block in a direction 90 degrees to the direction of the scuff, and continue until the marks are no longer visible.

5

Attach a piece of 600-grit sandpaper on the rubber sanding block. Spray the sandpaper and the scuff with water. Sand the damaged area by using the sandpaper and block in a direction perpendicular to the previous sanding step. Continue sanding until the 320-grit scratches are removed from the headlight.

6

Sand the headlight again, using the 1000-grit sandpaper. Sand until the 600-grit scratches are removed from the headlight. Follow again with 1500-grit sandpaper until the 1000-grit scratches are removed from the headlight.

7

Apply a small amount of fine buffing compound to a soft rag. Buff the damaged area vigorously by using a circular motion until the damaged area is free of sanding haze and has a shiny appearance.

8

Apply a small amount of plastic polish to a soft rag. Rub the damaged area by using a circular motion to give the headlight its final finish.

9

Carefully remove the tape. Rinse the area with clean water to remove excess sanding slurry.

Posted by Unknown at 12:30 AM

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