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Best way to protect headlights

Discussion in 'Detailing' started by Sumo91, Nov 7, 2020.

  1. Nov 7, 2020 at 9:33 AM
    #1
    Sumo91

    Sumo91 [OP] Busy with projects

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    Bilstein 8112/8100 3.25in lift Dobinson leaf springs 2.1in lift Level8 MK6 wheels Big ole dent in bedside
    Hey all! Just made the upgrade to oem leds for my truck. Before I install them, whats the best way to keep them from fading and getting hazy? I was thinking ceramic coating for long term, but if there are any other methods that are better id love to hear them. Thank you all!
     
  2. Nov 7, 2020 at 10:10 AM
    #2
    T-Guy69

    T-Guy69 New Member

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    I brought mine to lamin-X. They can be problematic to put on.
     
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  3. Nov 7, 2020 at 10:33 AM
    #3
    frichco228

    frichco228 Valued Member

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    I have had great luck just keeping them "waxed", well sealed really- something like Meguiars ultimate. I replaced the headlights on my 4runner about 5 years ago and they still look brand new. I would stay away from Laminex. Not a fan and I have used it before on fog lights. It will discolor over time and is a PITA to remove. Then you have to clean up the light cases again....not worth it when I can spend 5 minutes to wax both headlights and get great results.
     
    WILLINH, TheBeast and Sumo91[OP] like this.
  4. Nov 7, 2020 at 10:40 AM
    #4
    Sumo91

    Sumo91 [OP] Busy with projects

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    I thought about waxing as well. My truck is pretty scratched up and has a nice big dent in the bedside fender. So I don't keep the truck super clean or wax it. But regardless I'd like to keep the headlights looking good and have them protected. Would you recommend the wax over ceramic coating? Pros and cons of both?
     
  5. Nov 7, 2020 at 10:56 AM
    #5
    Jim LE 1301

    Jim LE 1301 Camaro Lover, SSEM # 11,TTC#179

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  6. Nov 7, 2020 at 11:01 AM
    #6
    TheBeast

    TheBeast The Beach

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  7. Nov 7, 2020 at 2:15 PM
    #7
    T-Guy69

    T-Guy69 New Member

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    I think it depends on use. Wax will stop the yellowing from UV damage.

    My Corolla XRS was driven to work on the Expressway and the sand kicked up from the road fogged over the lenses like being sand blasted. I am pretty diligent about waxing and applying a clear seal.
    When the Tundra was brand new I put on the Lamin-X. Want to see if it worked better.

    If you don't use it as a daily driver and in an area without a lot of dirt and debris, waxing will probably be sufficient if you do it at least every six months. More severe use, I would consider Lamin-X or something else.
     

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