Headlight lens removal/replacement

[simonpdl]

The lenses on my V5 1999 Toledo are scratched and cloudy (part of the advisory notice on my MOT). There seems to be very mixed messages out there about how sucessful this lens cleaning kits are so I'm wary of going down that route but can't seem to find a supplier of lenses. Please dont say i have to purchase a brand new headlight instead?
Does anyone have any experience of these headlight cleaning kits or where i can pick up brand new lenses from? Also would i have to remove the whole headlight to replace the lens?

 

[Tartan58]

To be honest your best bet is going to be to get a "new" headlight, there's always a few on e-bay for £30ish.

 

[TllEWL]

Whether it's a new lens or a complete new unit, you're still gonna end up having to take the bumper off to remove them

You could try some AutoGlym SuperResin polish - I find that stuff works wonders on plastics and might just clear them up

 

[simonpdl]

Ah thanks for the advice. Will try the polish first, then the headlights! Cheers.

 

[Slimy]

Yep, the lens is bonded to the headlight, and the headlight is mounted behind the bumper.

I'm guessing it's the outside thats scratched, and the inside that is cloudy? I'd be tempted to get them off, get the bulbs out and wash them in a bucket of car shampoo and water to get rid of the grime inside. Get some water inside, put your hands over the bulb holes, and give it a good shake. Then as already recommended, a light going over with SRP to clean the outside. They should clean up quite nicely, and get you through the MOT.

 

[AP_V5]

Using a minor cutting compound such as t cut or G3 if they're really bad with a damp cloth should bring them up then put some polish on. Did this on my Astra headlights and worked wonders