Hello All,
Tried to find information on how to best take care of headlights, but saw contradicting information. Most suggest clearbra, however that voids the warranty on the headlights (per dealer). Didn't find any information on whether coating products (i.e. DP Headlight protectant spray/wheel coating) will harm the original coating on the lense or if it can be put over it. Thanks for any information.

 

I've used a few different PPF products out there and never had any issue with de-lamination (what most are afraid of happening...) or other concerns. And I have to say that I am super-happy that I did something to keep the lens in nearly perfect condition for the past 2 years. I've had different tints, as well. From very dark (nearly black) to crystal-clear. I think it all comes down to the installation -- you do it right, you shouldn't have any problems. And that goes for removal as well -- do it right and no worries. What I figured was a higher probable scenario (at least where I live!) is a rock hitting the lens and cracking it -- which wouldn't be covered under warranty anyways!

However -- and many experts in this forum will jump-up to tell you I am sure -- right there in the OM there is caution against covering the lens with anything. Now, what they mean by "anything" is subject to debate, but the general concern is with heat build-up within the housing, and perhaps aggressive adhesives. Probably why a dealer would tell you don't do it. Wouldn't want everybody running over to the local auto parts store and throwing crappy product on the bug-eyes, would they? Whether that voids a warranty or not, guess you'd have to have some type of failure (maybe delamination?) that could be attributed to the film, though perhaps not much different than tinting your windows!

Also, consider whether you are leasing, or going to keep the car long time. If the former, then you are right to be more careful. If the latter, then heck you can protect the lens and not worry about taking it off anytime soon. And you can always pick-up a spare set of headlamps cheaper than a new set....

Just my $0.02. YMMV

 

I've ceramic coated a lot of different headlamp assemblies over the years and they have all been fine. I've also waxed ans sealed them. All good to go!

Hope this helps you!

 

Curious, does ceramic coating, waxing, and/or sealing the lamp cover help in any way with rocks or debris hitting the covers and NOT causing or preventing damage?

 

I can't imagine that it does any good at all. I wouldnt mess with headlights. They can always be replaced if they get really bad but that would take years wouldnt it?

 

NO. No type of coating, wax, ceramic, etc will help with any debris/rock/stone/etc hits/chips/etc. They will assist with cleaning, UV damage prevention, etc.

You would need an actual barrier between the lens in order to prevent this type of damage.

 

+1. Ceramic coatings do little to nothing for chip/rock/debris protection. Some manufacturers claim that it helps since there is a measurable layer of protection sitting atop the paint/headlight, but it really doesn't make enough of a difference when a small stone hits the paint dead on.