Headlight restoration - longer term experience!

[Redefined]

Previously I've done two sets of headlights on my cars. One I used a kit from Halfords (probably Maguires or similar) and it seemed an ok job and the clearcoat was easy to get on. Seemed to simple and straightforward, but worked well and I had clear lenses.

The other set (actually maybe the third set as I probably made the first set last across 2 cars 😆) I had done professionally by someone I met at a Subaru Garage in Bradford. Came to my street the week after and spent a good 2 hours cleaning/polishing and coating. Again, results were amazing and I've been looking for a similar local business (sadly, lost his number/details) to do the Ls430 as the headlights look a bit dull.

Other than not being able to find a local specialist, I've also been reading that the clearcoat applied apparently only lasts for about a year. This, I've also read on the Maguires kit at Halfords. Unfortunately I didn't own the previous cars for longer than 3 years and I'm perplexed at what method do I take!

Specialist service outside my door in 2019 was about £80. So I imagine it'll now be closer to around £150 (which might answer my Q of just doing it myself). Thoughts/comments welcomed please...

[The-Acre]

5 hours ago, Redefined said:

Previously I've done two sets of headlights on my cars. One I used a kit from Halfords (probably Maguires or similar) and it seemed an ok job and the clearcoat was easy to get on. Seemed to simple and straightforward, but worked well and I had clear lenses.

The other set (actually maybe the third set as I probably made the first set last across 2 cars 😆) I had done professionally by someone I met at a Subaru Garage in Bradford. Came to my street the week after and spent a good 2 hours cleaning/polishing and coating. Again, results were amazing and I've been looking for a similar local business (sadly, lost his number/details) to do the Ls430 as the headlights look a bit dull.

Other than not being able to find a local specialist, I've also been reading that the clearcoat applied apparently only lasts for about a year. This, I've also read on the Maguires kit at Halfords. Unfortunately I didn't own the previous cars for longer than 3 years and I'm perplexed at what method do I take!

Specialist service outside my door in 2019 was about £80. So I imagine it'll now be closer to around £150 (which might answer my Q of just doing it myself). Thoughts/comments welcomed please...

The three LS430's I've owned have all had the same misty headlights. I found masking the surrounding paint and spending about 5-10 mins on each light with compound and then waxing lasts a good few months. Once you've done it it's much easier to do it the next time before it gets too bad. I've used elbow power in a circular motion but a small polisher in a drill works well. I certainly wouldn't pay to have it done!

[Dumboo]

if you enjoy DIY projects, have the necessary tools and materials, and are willing to touch up the clearcoat periodically, you can certainly attempt the restoration yourself. 

[Redefined]

Sorry, forgot to update this. I had them done and the results are ace. Clear cote was applied by the restorer and price was £45 for both outside my door (he came about 10 miles).

Looked like he really loves his job and told me the reason for the cheaper price was cos he wasn't using the coat that could last 3 or 5 years. One, to save costs to the consumer and secondly in case he applies the coat and it doesn't last the expected 4 years.

It's by 3m and comes as 2 wipes. Not done it yet, but plan to. The chap had such good peoples skills and seemed to love his job so much I'll be using him again when needed (hopefully for another car). Took over an hour!

 

[Boomer54]

Impressive result.

[Redefined]

Thanks @Boomer54 indeed it is. Still remains a month later, just as sharp. It's something that I'd always walk back from the masjid to and see the dullness of them lights.

Now though, it's super sharp and crisp looking. Kept looking at em the first few days but I reckon the novelties worn off now 😅

[Steve Rothery]

Do you have a contact number for him? My LS 460 sport headlights need some tlc.

[Redefined]

Hi @Steve Rothery sorry I've just seen this. My lights have gotten through winter and still crystal clean/clear. That's despite not having ordered the 3m overcote he suggested. He'id he doesn't apply cos most people don't wish to pay for the extra upgrade so just refers those who do to the correct stuff.

Anyway, this is him https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hm8hRbfa3rTkw913A