The Eyes of Your Automoble
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By Amy Mattinat
According to the National Safety Council, the number of traffic deaths is three times greater at night than during the day. Since ninety percent of a driver’s reaction depends on visibility, it is extremely important that your headlights are aimed correctly, and the lenses are clear enough to let the light go through.
Did you know that headlights lenses used to be made out of glass and now are made out of plastic?
Glass headlights only came in a limited number of sizes and shapes. If they cracked or broke, they had to be replaced. Approximately 10 years ago, automakers started using plastic headlight assemblies. The plastic material is easier to mold and the auto designers love it because the plastic lends itself to unlimited styles and reduce drag because of better aerodynamics.
Unfortunately the plastic headlight lenses become yellow and cloudy overtime. In only 2-3 years the light output can be cut by 75 percent, which may make it unsafe to drive at night. What happens is that the sun’s harsh UV rays, acid rain, harsh weather conditions, and chemicals all wear on the lenses. Plus, while driving, the lenses pick up dirt and grime. When the lights are on, the plastic gets hot and expands. After you are done driving you turn them off and the plastic cools and contracts. This can trap the dirt and grime on the lenses.
When the headlights get cloudy and yellow, they will not pass the yearly Vermont State Inspection. Now a days, there are ways to repair cracks, repair leaks and even clean plastic headlight lenses. Consider having them restored at a fraction of the cost. When you have your headlights restored, you be able to see again! Plus, your car will pass state inspection, will look almost brand new, be safer to drive and give you piece of mind.
To help slow down yellowing and clouding of headlights you can clean the headlights once a week and more often if necessary. Don’t forget to clean the parking lights, back-up lights and turn signals too.