Most restorations take around one to two hours for a standard pair of headlights, depending on how badly oxidised the lenses are. Heavily yellowed or deeply scratched lenses need more sanding stages and take longer. We inspect your lights first and give you a realistic time estimate, since rushing this work leads to uneven results that don’t last.
With a quality UV sealant applied and regular maintenance, results typically last one to three years before noticeable clouding returns. In Fremantle, strong coastal sun and cars parked outdoors will shorten that timeframe. Keeping the lenses clean and reapplying protection when advised helps you get the longest possible life from the restoration.
Most surface yellowing and oxidation can be corrected, as this damage sits on the outer layer of the lens. However, if the clouding is on the inside of the headlight, or the lens has cracks or internal moisture, restoration can’t fix that. We assess each set honestly during inspection and tell you upfront what’s realistically achievable.
For most cars with surface oxidation, yes. Replacement headlight units are expensive, particularly on newer vehicles, while restoration costs a fraction of that and produces a clear, refreshed finish in a single visit. Replacement only makes sense when a lens is cracked, damaged internally, or the clouding sits behind the outer surface where polishing can’t reach.
Wash the lenses regularly with car shampoo to remove grime, avoid harsh abrasive cleaners, and park in shade or undercover where you can to limit UV exposure. Reapplying protection when it starts to wear also helps. A light maintenance treatment every so often keeps oxidation from building back up and extends your original results.
Headlight lenses are made from polycarbonate, which breaks down under prolonged UV exposure. Over time the protective factory coating wears away and the surface oxidises, turning yellow and hazy. Fremantle’s strong sun and coastal conditions accelerate this. Road grit, chemicals, and general weathering all add to it, which is why outdoor-parked cars fade fastest.
