Robert Topper

I've been digging through all the posts assuming this was a popular issue, but I can't seem to find anything. So, basically, I have redone my headlights once already,but they're needing another renewal. I spent $400 on both HID headlamps for my Mercedes. I can't find the Acura headlamps for less than $400 a piece. Why are they so sparse? Why are they so expensive? I guess I can hit the scrap yards and see what I can see. Anyone else have any luck?

schen72

What do you by "redone" your headlights? Do you mean getting them de-hazed? Or replacing the assembly entirely?

Robert Topper

I de-hazed them initially a few years back. I didn't use a kit, I used several levels of sand paper, and then sprayed a new clear coat. Now, instead of doing it again, I'd like to just replace (if I can find some at a decent price).

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

perhaps an aftermarket headlight would be cheaper? a DEPO version would be cheaper than the OEM version.

try checking out ebay for used parts....
or you can even check out Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market to scour local junk yards for the headlight.

Robert Topper

I've been scouring through the web for some. Ebay has a right assembly for $300+ and a left assembly for $400+. and I don't even know if they match completely. Oh, and that's the used price. I'll check out the Car-part.com I haven't seen that one. and I saw a for sale section on this site that I haven't looked through.

Thanks all.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

i mean, it is a 10 year old vehicle that is rarely seen on the road any more... used parts will only be harder to come by.

mrgold35

I purchased my 08 RDX back in 2010. I live in the southwest with plenty of clear skies and UV damage on every headlight after a few years. I did 3M clear bra at the time of purchase on the front end, side mirrors, and headlights. The clear bra has a UV filter and my headlights are still clear after +8 years with the film. It might be cheaper to polish the HIDs again; but, add a film with UV protection afterwards. I also upgraded my HIDs to Osram Xenarc 66240CBI HIDs bulbs and they are a big improvement over the OEM bulbs. You can do the polish, UV film, and upgrade the HIDs for under $200 compared to +$700 purchasing used on eBay.

Same 3M film on my 06 TSX for +12 years and 11 MDX +4 years with zero UV hazing of HID covers.

Robert Topper

Looks like that is going to be my best best. Thanks for the data on the bulbs and 3M film. I think I'll go that route.

schen72

I did something similar. I never had to dehaze them, but a few years into owning the car, I had "paint protection" film added to the headlights for about $130. The car is now 10+ years old and the headlights look brand new. It is parked outside all the time.

wusty23jd

+1 for the 3M clear bra. I added this protection to my TL once I finished detailing/polishing my lenses. I will be doing the same to my wife's RDX when I detail her car in a few months.

OhRDX

Robert Topper

Depending on the condition and price, I might be. Go ahead and post some pics when you dig them up.

Denvermgb

I've done the sand/polish/coat to headlamps on my Leus RX, worked great and lasted a long time. Going to do the same treatment to the '08 RDX I just bought. I think it's the best way to go and more in-line with my budget.

Denvermgb

CSmoney28

Tomtwtwtw

Get a highly-rated kit off Amazon and follow the instructions. A drill for buffing is all you should need, and some kits don't even require that (but it definitely helps). Also some painter's tape to protect the hood and bumper. It's quite easy if you just take your time with each step. If you try to rush through, you're bound to leave some cloudy spots behind - much like shaving too fast.

CSmoney28

mrgold35

Sometime, headlight can haze over faster the next time once you polish them. I think there is some protective coating that might get polished off when you restore them? I would check into some type of protective film with UV blocker after the restore.

wusty23jd

Correct, the headlight restoration process will remove the OEM protective UV coating. You should definitely put some form of protective coating on them after you restore the lenses (either spray, liquid application, or clear vinyl bra).

I recently wrote a thread about a set of 3g Acura TL headlights that I modified and documented my lengthy journey with restoring the Honda plastic lenses:
https://acurazine.com/forums/third-g...l-eyes-972240/

Regarding the headlight restoration process, please refer to my comments in Steps II, XI and XII.

Keep in mind that there is a difference between a moderate restoration and a full restoration. Sunlight will tell you if you've restored your lenses correctly.

CSmoney28

Tomtwtwtw

Forgot to mention the coating - definitely worth looking into. After my first treatment, it took about 2 years in the AZ sun to start looking faded again (although not nearly as bad as before my first fix). But, my car also doesn't get much sun. Someone without a garage or covered parking at home and/or work would likely see it fade much sooner.

wusty23jd

3M is a great company and I do love their products for pretty much everything. However, I can guarantee that your headlights will contain swirls if you don't finish it up with Megs 105 or a similar compound. It's not a 3M problem. it's a problem with the soft plastics. Just keep this in mind

Good luck

CSmoney28

Dhammond823

I have been searching as well. We just purchased a Silver 08 RDX. The drivers side light is perfect and has a silver interior, the passenger has moisture in it and the interior plastic is black. I was curious if you were able to find an extra set in the garage? If so, what color is the interior, and would you want to part with them?