Re: 2005 crossfire - coupe headlights
Hello All,
I came across this forum while doing research for a paper. Here is what I've found out. The deterioration or foggy/cloudy look of your lenses is NOT specific to your Crossfire. It is happening to literally every car make and model out there.
The lenses are made of a plastic composite (called polycarbonate) and then coated with a UV protectant/sealant from the factory. That sealant is usually the first thing to deteriorate. It can affect the whole lens, but often times starts from the top and works its way down, thus leaving a jagged line look on the lens. If left unrepaired it will spread and get worse and sometimes even cause the polycarbonate itself to form cracks.
To my knowledge, there have been a number of studies showing that the only way to fix this is to replace or repair the damage. You'd be surprised how bad the lights can be and yet still be restored to a like new look.
I am astonished that there isn't more public outcry to find a better solution to this problem. I am a 22 year career auto mechanic myself. When I came across this problem, I consulted a fellow technician about it and found that he has been doing the restorations for a while now. He taught me his method and products he uses and now I do the restorations myself when I have time on the weekends. Like anything else, there is a sort of art to doing it and it takes practice to have an excellent result. If anyone is interested, I would be happy to explain the process or email you links to the pros. 90% of the time, a simple polish doesn't get it. In my experience, I normally have to sand the old coating off, sand to 3000 grit in steps and then apply a new coating. If you don't apply a new coating, the correction will last 3 - 6 months before returning. Now you see why I have the name part-timer....lol
Good luck to all!!