Davis Bellew If you own a 2003 Subaru, you know that one of the most overlooked maintenance tasks is cleaning the headlights. Over time, the headlights can become cloudy and hazy, making it difficult to see at night. Not only is this a safety hazard, but it can also make your car look older and less attractive. Fortunately, cleaning your 2003 Subaru headlights is a simple task that can be done with a few common household items and some elbow grease. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to clean 2003 Subaru headlights to restore their clarity and shine.
Key Takeaways
- Cloudy and hazy headlights can be a safety hazard and make your car look older.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of your 2003 Subaru headlights can restore their clarity and shine.
- You can clean your 2003 Subaru headlights at home with a few common household items.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning 2003 Subaru Headlights
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to clean your 2003 Subaru headlights:
- Dish soap
- Bucket of water
- Microfiber towels
- Rubbing alcohol
- Toothpaste
- Water
- Sandpaper (optional)
- Automotive polish (optional)
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started!
Step 1: Wash the Headlights
The first step in cleaning your 2003 Subaru headlights is to wash them with dish soap and water. Start by mixing a few drops of dish soap in a bucket of water and using a microfiber towel to wash the headlights. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the headlights.
Step 2: Dry the Headlights
Once you have washed the headlights, use a clean microfiber towel to dry them thoroughly. Be sure to remove all moisture from the surface of the headlights.
Step 3: Apply Rubbing Alcohol
Next, apply rubbing alcohol to a clean microfiber towel and use it to wipe the surface of the headlights. This will help to remove any remaining dirt, grime, or debris from the surface of the headlights.
Step 4: Apply Toothpaste
Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto a clean microfiber towel and apply it to the surface of the headlights. Use a circular motion to rub the toothpaste onto the surface of the headlights. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the headlights.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Once you have applied the toothpaste, rinse the headlights with water and dry them with a clean microfiber towel. Be sure to remove all of the toothpaste residue from the surface of the headlights.
Step 6: Sand the Headlights (Optional)
If your headlights are extremely cloudy or hazy, you may need to sand them to restore their clarity. Start by wetting a piece of 2000-grit sandpaper and using it to sand the surface of the headlights in a circular motion. Be sure to keep the sandpaper wet at all times. Once you have finished sanding, rinse the headlights with water and dry them with a clean microfiber towel.
Step 7: Apply Automotive Polish (Optional)
If you want to add an extra layer of protection to your headlights, you can apply automotive polish. Apply a small amount of polish to a clean microfiber towel and rub it onto the surface of the headlights in a circular motion. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the headlights.
FAQs
How often should I clean my 2003 Subaru headlights?
It’s a good idea to clean your 2003 Subaru headlights at least once every six months. However, if you live in an area with a lot of dust, dirt, or debris, you may need to clean them more frequently.
Can I use other types of toothpaste to clean my headlights?
It’s best to use white toothpaste when cleaning your headlights. Avoid using gel toothpaste or toothpaste with added flavorings.
Can I use vinegar to clean my 2003 Subaru headlights?
While vinegar can be an effective cleaner for many surfaces, it’s not recommended for cleaning headlights. Vinegar can damage the protective coating on the surface of the headlights, making them more susceptible to damage.
Will cleaning my 2003 Subaru headlights improve their performance?
Yes, cleaning your 2003 Subaru headlights can improve their performance by restoring their clarity and shine. This will make it easier to see at night, improving your safety on the road.
Conclusion
Cleaning your 2003 Subaru headlights is a simple task that can be done with a few common household items. Regular maintenance of your headlights can help to restore their clarity and shine, improving their performance and enhancing the appearance of your car. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your 2003 Subaru headlights are always in top condition.
