Caring For Your Headlights

​It is, unfortunately, a common sight.  A nice shiny coat, newly waxed body, sleek black tires, and then cloudy yellow headlights.  Often neglected, headlights are a big part of your car's aesthetic.  It can happen to older cars and even newer ones when left uncared.  

Not only are they not pleasing aesthetically but reduce your car's safety as well.  Cloudy headlights can decrease your visibility at night.  It can also affect your light for oncoming cars which can blind or affect their vision.

​WHAT MAKES THE HEADLIGHT DETERIORATE?
Cracked headlights from collisions and bumps allow moisture and dirt to enter.  If left alone, this causes it to become cloudy and can damage the light bulb and socket.  Moisture can enter the casing even without cracks.  You may see water droplets and fog from inside your headlights.  Exposure to the sun and its UV rays also discolor the headlight casing. 
 
HEADLIGHT CARE 101
Here are a few important steps you can take to ensure optimal headlight condition.

• Drain the moisture out of your headlights.  If you see fog and water drops inside the case, you should remove the headlights.  Depending on your car model, there should be an opening to let the condensation escape.  Let it dry well before putting it back.
• If you have cracks in the headlight, replace it right away.  Do not prolong it.  Cracks allow additional passage for water and dirt to enter.  If you cannot replace it now, seal the crack with some resin as a temporary fix.  However, remember this is a temporary fix only and should be replaced immediately.
• Keep the headlights always clean.  There are many products in a car accessory store to properly clean headlights and prolong its good looks.  A couple of sprays and a few good wipes is all it takes.  It will also protect it from the elements helping to avoid cloudiness and turning it into yellow.
• If you notice your headlights starting to change color, there are also products available to clear them up.  Do not let them get worse as they will be more difficult to remove later on.
• Replace the bulbs regularly.  Always inspect and make sure that the bulbs are in good working condition.

 
Headlight care is not only for your car's good looks but more importantly for car safety.  Proper care helps protect yourself, your car, and other drivers as well.  Make sure you have complete protection by owning the right car insurance policy. At Insurance Services of the West, LLC, we take pride in making sure that our clients are well-protected at prices they can afford. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (425) 681-0996 or Click Here to request a free quote.