We tested the Cerakote Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit to see if its simple three-step process could restore clarity to oxidised headlights — here’s how it went.
Like many modern vehicles, the headlight lenses on my 200 Series LandCruiser had become cloudy due to oxidation of the lens material. Not only did they look unappealing, but the lights were becoming dim, which was particularly noticeable on low beam when the driving lights couldn’t be used.
Polycarbonate lenses replaced glass a few decades ago because they are more resistant to stone damage and can be easily shaped to suit modern styling. A new car has UV protection on the lens, but this wears out in time. Vehicles stored in a garage won’t have as much UV damage, of course, and headlight covers will slow the oxidation process, but in our case, the damage was done.
I tried some cheaper remedies without any luck, and I proved that toothpaste doesn’t work, so when a friend suggested the Cerakote headlight restoration process, I decided to give it a go. Made in the USA, Cerakote offers a range of ceramic coatings for industrial applications. Its headlight restoration kit is a three-step process that requires no special tools — but a spray bottle for water, some masking tape and a few dry microfibre cloths will be handy.
My LandCruiser headlights were a bit cloudy
Step-by-step: Using the Cerakote Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit
The headlight restoration process is simple and only has three steps.
Step one: Removing oxidation
First, I cleaned the headlights with some detergent and rinsed them off. I then masked around the lights to protect the paint when sanding in step two. The restoration kit includes four sachets of oxidation remover for each headlight. So, I fitted the supplied vinyl glove and thoroughly wiped the first light in a circular motion with the impregnated wipe, which turned yellow as the oxidation was removed. I repeated the process with all four wipes and noticed the lights looked brighter but still had a hazy finish. I repeated step one with the four wipes for the second light.
Clean with oxidation wipes
Step two: Sanding the lenses
Next, you sand the lights — first with 2000-grit sandpaper using the supplied Velcro pad, and then with 3000 grit to create a smooth, scratch-free surface. It’s a wet process, so using a spray bottle with water or a slow trickle from a hose to keep the sandpaper moist is best. The sanding should take two or three minutes for each light.
Sand the lights
Step three: Applying the clear coat
Thoroughly wash the lenses and let them dry completely before applying the Clear Coat. There is one pad for each light. Wipe the lens horizontally from the bottom to the top, using a 50 per cent overlap and applying only one coat.
Did the kit restore the headlights?
The results were impressive. The lights looked as good as new, making the car look much better. It’s always satisfying when a product performs as expected. I was impressed with the result, and I look forward to the restoration being permanent because the kit comes with a lifetime guarantee.
As good as new
Where to buy the Cerakote Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit in Australia
I purchased the Cerakote Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit on Amazon for $56 with free postage (price is subject to change). It arrived in about two days. I have also since heard that a genuine Toyota kit (part number 0887180100) sells for $59, and I’d be keen to hear if anyone has used it with success.
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Cerakote Ceramic Headlight Restoration Kit put to the test