Headlights are often neglected because automobile owners figure that they are getting washed with the rest of the exterior. However, headlight lenses, even among the most luxurious cars such as Mercedes Benz, are as susceptible to debris and UV degradation as the body paint, perhaps even worse. For example, a Mercedes Benz Headlight Lens is made of polycarbonate plastic in order to make them impact resistant. This plastic is functional, but it can cloud over time as a result of UV exposure. As the lens gets blurred, it restricts the amount of light that can pass through the lens causing reduced visibility. Some basic maintenance and cleaning techniques could be made to correct different problems that may infringe a Mercedes Headlight Lens' function.
A dirty, yellowed, cloudy and otherwise dim set of headlights is one of the most common problems. Unlike a burned out bulb, yellowing headlight lenses make a C230 or SL60's lights dimmer slowly over time. Because of this, they easier to ignore. The limited field of vision, however, can pose dangers for the driver and his/her passengers. The easiest way to repair a with yellow or cloudy lenses is to use a lens polishing compound, known also as a rubbing compound. The cleaning method is to rub the lens with wet, fine-grain (1000 grit) sandpaper first. For major damage, a courser grain of sandpaper is needed, perhaps that is 5000 grit. The next step is to polish the lens with a course red polishing compound followed by a fine white compound. When polishing is done, the lens can be cleansed with Armor All or Simple Green. While polishing usually works, some lenses may though, be beyond repair and need to be replaced.In a Mercedes Benz Headlight Lens that accumulates water, water needs to be removed first, before repairing the leak. For plastic lenses, the primary step is to remove the lens and then carefully drill a small hole into the bottom of the lens. Next, the water can be drained out and the hole filled with silicone, urethane, or plastic resin. If a crack or hole is found in the lens, one can repair it with the same product used to patch the drainage hole. Another possible source of leaks is a break in the seal around the headlights. These seals can be repaired with silicone.
Headlights that are dim or incorrectly aligned is a potential accident-factor. Properly aligned headlights should be aimed a little bit low. Incorrect installation, fender benders, or rough driving conditions can knock headlights out of alignment. This misalignment increases glare for the driver and oncoming drivers and impairs his depth of perception.
Although headlight problems are sometimes caused by electrical faults that need professional repair, most problems are simpler to fix. Even if an owner is not all that handy with cars, he/she can learn how to repair headlights in very little time. A burned out bulb is easy to replace and yellow headlight lenses can be cleaned with easy-to-find products. It is always advisable to learn hot to fix simple Mercedes Benz Headlight Lens problems so as to save maintenance and service costs. Headlights are one of the most important safety features on a car, but they can only do their job if they are properly maintained.
