PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Home and Garden
DIY
How to Clean Headlights with WD-40 Download Article Written by Chad Zani | Edited by Hunter Rising
Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Defogging Headlights with WD-40
|
Alternative Ways to Clean Headlights
|
Video
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was written by Chad Zani and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 119,785 times.
Have you noticed that your headlights look hazy and dim when you turn them on? Headlights start to turn yellow and fog up over time, but a little WD-40 is a fast and easy solution to clean them up. Even if you don’t have WD-40, you may have other products at home you can use to clean your headlights. Keep reading and we’ll teach you how to clean headlights so they look crystal clear again!This article is based on an interview with our auto detailing expert, Chad Zani. Check out the full interview here.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Defogging Headlights with WD-40
Download Article
1 Wipe your headlights clean with a lint-free rag. Go over the entire plastic headlight cover with your rag to lift up any dirt, dust, and grime that might be stuck on the surface. If you apply WD-40 over a dirty headlight, the clean finish won’t last as long.
If there’s still residue leftover after you clean your headlight covers, wipe them with a damp rag with car wash soap.
2 Spread WD-40 onto the headlight with a clean microfiber cloth. You can use standard WD-40 spray to clean foggy headlights. Instead of spraying the WD-40 directly onto the headlight, apply it to the cloth. Work the WD-40 into the headlight covers using circular movements so you don’t leave any streaks. Within a few seconds, you’ll notice your headlights clearing up.[1]XResearch source
WD-40 helps cut through even more stuck-on grime that’s on the surface to make your headlights clear again.
It’s okay if you get some WD-40 on your vehicle’s paint since it won’t cause any damage.
Advertisement
3 Clean off any excess WD-40 with a sponge and soapy water. Put a dab of car wash soap into a bucket with some warm water and mix it up with your sponge. Gently wipe your headlights and the area around them with the sponge. Finish up by patting your headlights dry with a clean lint-free cloth.
You can apply a layer of car wax over your headlight to help them stay clear for longer.[2]XResearch source
4 Check your headlights for fogginess 1–2 weeks after cleaning them. Since WD-40 is only a temporary fix, you may have to clean your headlight lens covers after you’ve driven for a little while. If your headlights look hazy, then it’s time to clean them off again.[3]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 2:
Alternative Ways to Clean Headlights
Download Article
1 Rub a layer of petroleum jelly on the headlight as a quick DIY. Simply dip the corner of a microfiber cloth in a tub of petroleum jelly and spread it over your headlights. Work the jelly into a thin layer on the surface and it will keep your headlights defogged until rain rinses it away.[4]X Expert Source Chad ZaniAuto Detailing ExpertExpert Interview
Petroleum jelly fills in spots on your headlights that are scratched or have been broken down by the sun.
2 Apply olive oil to your headlights if you need a temporary fix. You can take the olive oil right from your kitchen to clean your car headlights. Pour a coin-sized amount of olive oil on a lint-free rag and rub in an even layer over your headlights. The oil will only last for a day or two, but it will help keep your headlights clear during the drive.[5]X Expert Source Chad ZaniAuto Detailing ExpertExpert Interview
You can also use olive oil spray, but apply it to your rag rather than directly onto your headlights.
3 Try cleaning headlights with toothpaste to buff them. Pick a non-gel toothpaste with peroxide and baking soda for the strongest clean. Scrub your headlights with toothpaste using circular motions until the fogginess starts to disappear.[6]XResearch source
Toothpaste is slightly abrasive, so it helps smooth and polish any damaged areas of your headlight lenses.
4 Defog headlights with a vinegar and baking soda scrub. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part distilled white vinegar in a small bowl until they form a thin paste. Apply the baking soda and vinegar paste on your headlights with a clean microfiber towel. After you finish, rinse the headlights with clean water and let them air-dry.
Baking soda acts as an abrasive and reacts with the vinegar to help loosen up any dirt that’s still stuck on your headlights.
5 Use a headlight restoration kit to remove foggy residue. Headlight restoration kits have abrasive sheets of emery paper, polish, and sealant so you have everything you need to buff and protect your headlights. You’ll usually start by rubbing the headlight with the emery paper followed by applying the polish and the sealant, but the instructions may vary depending on what kit you use.[7]X Expert Source Chad ZaniAuto Detailing ExpertExpert Interview
The Sylvania Headlight Restoration Kit is really effective since it has fine-grit emery paper for a smooth finish and it gives you the best improvement to your headlight brightness.[8]X Trustworthy Source Consumer ReportsNonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
The Turtle Wax Headlight Lens Restorer is a cheap alternative that comes with a sealant you can wipe on to protect your headlights for even longer.
The 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System comes with an abrasive sanding disk that you can attach to a power drill so you don’t have to put in as much elbow grease.
6 Wet-sand and polish your headlights for a permanent solution. If you need to clean oxidized headlights, wet a piece of 1,500-grit sandpaper with water and gently rub it over the headlight to remove any yellowed or foggy areas. Rinse the headlight with clean water, and then rub it with a wet piece of 2,000-grit sandpaper to get an even smoother finish. After a final rinse, apply wet car polish with a microfiber applicator.[9]XResearch source
If your headlights still look a little hazy, try ending with 3,000- or 4,000-grit sandpaper.
Put masking tape around the edges of your headlights so you don’t accidentally scratch off any paint or finish.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
If your headlights still look dim but the plastic cover looks clear, then you may need to replace the bulb.[10]X Trustworthy Source Consumer ReportsNonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
Clean your headlights every 1–2 weeks with glass cleaner and a lint-free rag to keep them from getting too dirty.[11]X Trustworthy Source Consumer ReportsNonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Be careful not to scrub any abrasive cleaners on your vehicle’s paint since they could leave small scratches in the finish.[12]X Trustworthy Source Consumer ReportsNonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How to Restore Cloudy Car HeadlightsHow to Restore Foggy Headlights Using ToothpasteHow toRepair Oxidized Cloudy Headlights with a Headlight CleanerHow toClean Headlights with VinegarHow to Clean Cloudy Plastic Kitchenware & HeadlightsBest Ways to Clean the Outside & Inside of Your CarHow toInstantly Remove Oxidation from Headlight Without SandpaperHow toReduce Glare when Driving at NightHow toClean Clear PlasticHow toRemove Clear Coat from PlasticHow toClean Tail LightsHow to Use Household Ingredients to Clean Your CarSimple DIY Ways to Polish & Restore Plastic So It ShinesThe Best Ways to Clean the Inside of Your Windshield Advertisement
References
↑ https://youtu.be/_glLfpQwzFc?t=43
↑ https://youtu.be/Tr_vCgzPqpQ?t=189
↑ https://youtu.be/Tr_vCgzPqpQ?t=294
↑ Chad Zani. Auto Detailing Expert. Expert Interview
↑ Chad Zani. Auto Detailing Expert. Expert Interview
Written by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert This article was written by Chad Zani and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. This article has been viewed 119,785 times. 63 votes - 89% Co-authors: 9Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 119,785 Categories: DIY In other languages Dutch German Portuguese Spanish Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 119,785 times.
Reader Success Stories
Anonymous
Aug 31, 2024
"This article was helpful to me."
Share your story If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Written by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert Co-authors: 9Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 119,78589% of readers found this article helpful. 63 votes - 89% Click a star to add your vote
Anonymous
Aug 31, 2024
"This article was helpful to me." Share yours!
Quizzes & Games
What Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizWhat’s The Perfect Hair Care Routine For MeTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizDo I Need Glasses QuizTake QuizWhat Skincare Products Should I Use QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How to Restore Cloudy Car HeadlightsHow to Restore Foggy Headlights Using ToothpasteHow toRepair Oxidized Cloudy Headlights with a Headlight CleanerHow toClean Headlights with Vinegar
Featured Articles
How toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?
Trending Articles
What's My Soulmate's Name QuizPurity TestWhich Fictional Character Would Crush On You?Crush Calculator: Does Your Crush Like You Back?Rate My Personality QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices Quiz
Featured Articles
How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With
Featured Articles
What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)
Watch Articles
How toTie a Loop KnotHow toMake Body OilHow toMake Almond MilkHow toWash White Clothes by HandHow toSkin a ChickenHow toClean Tile Floors with Vinegar
Trending Articles
Am I a Good Kisser QuizMy Lookalike GeneratorHow Tall Will I Be QuizIf I Had A Baby, What Would It Look Like?How toLose Weight FastHow to Tell if a Guy Likes You
Quizzes & Games
What Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizHow Old Do People Think I Look QuizTake QuizBrain Fog TestTake QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAm I Balding QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Home and Garden
DIY
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Written by Chad Zani | Edited by Hunter Rising 
Advertisement 
Written by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert This article was written by Chad Zani and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. This article has been viewed 119,785 times. 63 votes - 89% Co-authors: 9 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 119,785 Categories: DIY In other languages Dutch German Portuguese Spanish Japanese 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
515 
1 Wipe your headlights clean with a lint-free rag. Go over the entire plastic headlight cover with your rag to lift up any dirt, dust, and grime that might be stuck on the surface. If you apply WD-40 over a dirty headlight, the clean finish won’t last as long. 
2 Spread WD-40 onto the headlight with a clean microfiber cloth. You can use standard WD-40 spray to clean foggy headlights. Instead of spraying the WD-40 directly onto the headlight, apply it to the cloth. Work the WD-40 into the headlight covers using circular movements so you don’t leave any streaks. Within a few seconds, you’ll notice your headlights clearing up.[1] 
3 Clean off any excess WD-40 with a sponge and soapy water. Put a dab of car wash soap into a bucket with some warm water and mix it up with your sponge. Gently wipe your headlights and the area around them with the sponge. Finish up by patting your headlights dry with a clean lint-free cloth. 
4 Check your headlights for fogginess 1–2 weeks after cleaning them. Since WD-40 is only a temporary fix, you may have to clean your headlight lens covers after you’ve driven for a little while. If your headlights look hazy, then it’s time to clean them off again.[3] Advertisement 
1 Rub a layer of petroleum jelly on the headlight as a quick DIY. Simply dip the corner of a microfiber cloth in a tub of petroleum jelly and spread it over your headlights. Work the jelly into a thin layer on the surface and it will keep your headlights defogged until rain rinses it away.[4] 
2 Apply olive oil to your headlights if you need a temporary fix. You can take the olive oil right from your kitchen to clean your car headlights. Pour a coin-sized amount of olive oil on a lint-free rag and rub in an even layer over your headlights. The oil will only last for a day or two, but it will help keep your headlights clear during the drive.[5] 
3 Try cleaning headlights with toothpaste to buff them. Pick a non-gel toothpaste with peroxide and baking soda for the strongest clean. Scrub your headlights with toothpaste using circular motions until the fogginess starts to disappear.[6] 
4 Defog headlights with a vinegar and baking soda scrub. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part distilled white vinegar in a small bowl until they form a thin paste. Apply the baking soda and vinegar paste on your headlights with a clean microfiber towel. After you finish, rinse the headlights with clean water and let them air-dry. 
5 Use a headlight restoration kit to remove foggy residue. Headlight restoration kits have abrasive sheets of emery paper, polish, and sealant so you have everything you need to buff and protect your headlights. You’ll usually start by rubbing the headlight with the emery paper followed by applying the polish and the sealant, but the instructions may vary depending on what kit you use.[7] 
6 Wet-sand and polish your headlights for a permanent solution. If you need to clean oxidized headlights, wet a piece of 1,500-grit sandpaper with water and gently rub it over the headlight to remove any yellowed or foggy areas. Rinse the headlight with clean water, and then rub it with a wet piece of 2,000-grit sandpaper to get an even smoother finish. After a final rinse, apply wet car polish with a microfiber applicator.[9] 
Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.