Why Scratches Persist After Headlight Polishing: Troubleshooting and Solutions
Recently, you've taken the initiative to clean your headlights and attempt to eliminate scratches with various grit sandpapers and a compound. However, despite your efforts, the scratches are still visible. This can be frustrating, but the good news is that there are several common reasons for this issue, and practical solutions can be implemented. Let’s delve into the possible causes and what you can do to resolve the problem.
Common Reasons for Persistent Scratches
There could be several reasons why the scratches are still visible after your sanding and polishing efforts:
1. Insufficient Polishing
It's essential to ensure that the ultimate compound is being used properly. If you're not applying enough pressure or duration, the compound might not have the necessary force to remove the scratches effectively. Make sure to use a proper applicator and apply consistent pressure while motioning in a circular pattern.
2. Incorrect Grit Sequence
The correct grit sequence is crucial. Starting with 400-grit sandpaper is good, but if you didn't spend enough time with the 600 and 2000 grits, you may not have removed the deeper scratches. Ensure both 600 and 2000 grits are used thoroughly before moving on to compound.
3. Haze from Sanding
After sanding, a haze can sometimes remain that may look like scratches. This haze can typically be polished out using a finer polish or compound during the ultimate polishing stage.
4. Compound Quality
The effectiveness of the ultimate compound can vary. If it's not aggressive enough to address the level of scratches, you might need to try a more abrasive polish or a compound specifically designed for headlight restoration.
5. Technique
Both the technique used during sanding and polishing can significantly impact the final result. Ensure you are sanding evenly and not applying too much pressure, which can create additional scratches.
Recommendations for Better Results
If the above points don't resolve the issue, consider the following recommendations:
1. Re-sand Carefully
Go back to the 2000 grit sandpaper and spend more time ensuring all previous scratches are fully removed before moving to the polishing step.
2. Use a Polishing Machine
If you have a dual-action polisher, using it can yield better results than hand-polishing. This can help in achieving a smoother finish and removing scratches more effectively.
3. Try a Different Compound
If the scratches persist, consider using a different polishing compound specifically designed for headlight restoration. These compounds are formulated to be more effective in removing stubborn scratches.
Cleaning Your Headlight Before Application
It's crucial to clean your headlight thoroughly before any application. This step ensures that you don't introduce any residue that could interfere with the cleaning process. After sanding, a thorough cleaning is even more important to ensure you’re starting from a clean slate.
Spraying a Clear Coat - Advantages and Disadvantages
One final tip before you move on to restoration: did you spray a clear coat? If not, I highly recommend using MEGUiRES Headlight Clear Coat. Make sure to clean your headlight thoroughly before spraying. Spray a decent amount but do not go slow on your passes. Typically, adding a second coat can make the headlight appear glary, which is not ideal.
By following these guidelines and recommendations, you should be able to achieve the desired results and get your headlights looking as good as new.