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  1. #1
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    How to protect new headlamps?

    Good morning,

    I know this has been asked before, but wanted to see if there was anything new out there or if anyone had any long term use tests/information.

    What is the best way to protect new headlamps? Carbuba wax? Protective film? Any recommendations for specific brands?

    I just bought a brand brand new car (subaru) and the headlamp replacement is $600. I plan to drive it more than 10 years. On my old car, I replaced the headlamps after 13 years as the visibility became dangerous, despite taking great care of the exterior of the vehicle. I did not do anything specifically to preventitively take care of the headlamps, but did perform restoration, which works well once or twice, and then not at all. Would love to avoid replacing LED headlamps with moving components on the new car at that price!

    thank you!

  2. #2
    Super Member The Guz's Avatar
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    I would recommend either investing in getting xpel protection film on them or using a coating. CarPro DLUX or Gyeon Trim are good options.

  3. #3
    Super Member Desertnate's Avatar
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    Whether it's a sealant or a coating, I always cover the lights with the same LSP I'm using on the paint. This method has served me well, but I can't help by wonder if products more specifically designed for plastics like Guz mentioned would work even better.
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  4. #4
    Super Member oneheadlite's Avatar
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    I would recommend going the protective film route. That way you’re not only protecting them from U/V damage, but also putting as well. When I put new lights in my car after a deer strike ($1200 for the pair at cost), I had them filmed. Good film should have U/V protection built in, but you can always treat them with additional protection as well.

  5. #5
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    Those that Guz recommends is great choices. If you can wait a little bit more McKees 37 has just released their Headlight Coating. But it's not in stock yet but soon I think. Don't mix it up with their Headlight Protectant Spray. The new coating they claims up to 3 years of protection which seems to be a great choice too. Even if it's not tested yet McKees rarely makes bad products if any. And don't forget about all the other lights you have on the car to coat also.

  6. #6
    Super Member PaulMys's Avatar
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    Quote Originally Posted by Desertnate View Post
    Whether it's a sealant or a coating, I always cover the lights with the same LSP I'm using on the paint. This method has served me well, but I can't help by wonder if products more specifically designed for plastics like Guz mentioned would work even better.
    I'm in the same boat. Headlights, and tail lenses. I've always used 845. Six years in, and they still look like the day I picked it up from the dealer.
    It is no coincidence that man's best friend cannot talk.

  7. #7
    Super Member Route246's Avatar
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    Re: How to protect new headlamps?

    I use Optimum Opti-Lens Permanent Headlight Coating, headlight coatings protectants and Dr. Beasley's Headlight Coating Kit topped with 476s or any wax of your choice that has UV inhibitors. I bought the opti-lens first and just started using dr-beasleys for no other reason than just to try something different. Both provide a lot of beading and hopefully good UV protection. Topping with any competent LSP should get a good result.

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