This is also posted on rennlist in the 996 section, but I figured this might be a bit beyond that forum...sorry for those who watch both.

I have a 2002 996...and the headlight issues are in the following 4 iPhone pictures....the paint is fine...

Normal?

Sand?

Thermal shock (hot day, sun, then cold rain..?)?


And, once fixed, which product is the best to prevent this from happening again?



Jeff

 

In my experience there's no guarantee that it won't come back. Between weathering and UV rays all you can do is try to slow it down. Clear bras don't block UV rays, so using that doesn't help with UV but it would with the weathering. Sealant and wax would help a bit too. My suggestion is have someone install Ventureshield on the lamps and keep it protected with sealant and wax.

 

My gut tells me that's permanent damage...sorry to be bearer of bad news. It may be something that simply happens with age. I know the 993s had glass lenses and 996 was the first generation with the plastic lenses...I think. So it just may be simple wear-and-tear. Look into purchasing a pre-owned set and they're really simple to replace. It basically pops out and drops back in. You even have the tool for it in your tool box in the spare tire region.

 

Don't you guys think if it's on the outside it's worth a try with a polisher and some extensive polish
Even try a little very low grade and soaked sandpaper before polishing!

If it doesn't work out you can still go the suggested route to buy used or new ones, but I would first give it a go; maybe it works out!

 

I thought this was internal...perhaps some better pictures are in order...OP...can you post some better pictures with a camera.

 

I thought it was on the outside. If so, they can be wet sanded and polished clean. If on the interior...gulp...I dunno, can the housing be broken down to expose the inside of the front housing?

Here is an example of a customer's car who had a very similar problem with his head lamps. Btw, he has never had any paint correction done by me...that etching is not from me!


Befores:




After wet sanding:



After 2-step polishing:

 

I had the same problem!!! And my solution was the 3M Head light restoration Kit, it involves sanding on p500, p800 and then p3000 then polish, but i added in a p1000, p2000 then i did the p3000 it came with and my headlights look like NEW!!!

 

Yep, wet sand and polish.

 

Jeff, Did this ever get fixed? If so, what was the solution?

 

Haven't tried anything yet. Any thoughts on the "mother's ball" thing....

I might just use a detail guru in my local area as they probably have lots more experience...


Thanks guys. I'll update this with a result.

Jeff