We Tried WD-40 on Our Headlights: It Worked Momentarily, But Not Over the Long Run

 Part 1: Spraying WD 40 on headlights

Part 2: Results after 1 week

Keeping your car's headlights clear and shining is essential for both safety and aesthetics. 

Over time, headlights can become foggy or yellowed due to exposure to the elements, reducing visibility and making your car look older.

 We recently tried using WD-40, a common household lubricant, to restore the clarity of our headlights. Here’s how it went.

The Experiment: Using WD-40 on Headlights

WD-40 is known for its versatility, with uses ranging from lubricating hinges to removing sticky residue. Some car enthusiasts and DIYers claim it can also be used to temporarily restore foggy headlights, so we decided to put this theory to the test.

Step 1: Cleaning the Headlights

Before applying WD-40, we made sure to clean the headlights thoroughly with soap and water to remove any surface dirt and grime. This step is crucial to ensure that the WD-40 can directly interact with the foggy or yellowed surface.

Step 2: Applying WD-40

After drying the headlights, we sprayed a light coat of WD-40 directly onto the surface. We then used a clean microfiber cloth to spread the product evenly across the headlight, using circular motions to ensure full coverage.

Step 3: Wiping Off Excess

We let the WD-40 sit for a few minutes, then wiped off any excess with a clean cloth. The headlights immediately looked clearer and shinier, with the foggy appearance significantly reduced.

The Results: Short-Term Shine

Immediate Impact

Right after application, the headlights looked noticeably better. The WD-40 had removed much of the surface haze, giving the headlights a clear, shiny appearance. For a quick fix, it seemed like a success. The headlights looked almost brand new, and the improvement in clarity was visible.

Driving at Night

During a nighttime test drive, the headlights seemed to project more light, improving visibility on the road. The difference was not as drastic as a full headlight restoration kit might provide, but it was a noticeable improvement from before the WD-40 treatment.

The Downside: Limited Longevity

 Temporary Solution

Unfortunately, the clarity provided by WD-40 didn’t last. After a few days, the foggy and yellowed appearance began to return, and within a week, the headlights were almost back to their original state. This is because WD-40 doesn't actually remove the oxidation that causes headlights to become foggy; it merely adds a temporary layer of shine.

Not a Permanent Fix

While WD-40 can provide a quick and temporary improvement, it’s not a long-term solution for headlight restoration. The product’s lubricating properties make the surface of the headlights look better for a short time, but without addressing the root cause of the fogging, the results are fleeting.

 Use with Caution

Using WD-40 on your headlights can provide a momentary improvement in clarity and shine, but it's not a permanent fix. If you need a quick, short-term solution for a special occasion or before a drive, WD-40 might do the trick. However, for lasting results, a proper headlight restoration kit or professional service is the better route.

Alternatives for Long-Term Headlight Restoration

If you’re looking for a more durable solution, consider using a dedicated headlight restoration kit. These kits are designed to remove the oxidation that causes cloudiness and often include a protective coating to prevent the issue from returning quickly. Alternatively, professional headlight restoration services can provide more permanent results.

CERAKOTE® Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit – Guaranteed To Last As Long As You Own Your Vehicle – Brings Headlights back to Like New Condition - 3 Easy Steps - No Power Tools Required $17.95

**Takeaway:** WD-40 can temporarily improve the appearance of foggy headlights, but for long-lasting clarity, you’ll need to invest in a more permanent solution.