QUOTE(fiacra @ Oct 4 2026, 05:49 PM)

I've used the 3M headlight restoration kit two times now, and both times the results were only acceptable for about 18 months. This last time I purchased a 3" hook and loop backing pad for my Milwaukee drill and an assortment of sanding disks. Worked my way up through the grades of sandpaper, finished off with a hand polish, and then applied two coats of clear coat. Turned out looking great, but longevity has not yet been determined. At least the cost for everything was just over what I would have paid for one kit, and I have enough sandpaper and clear coat to do at least five sets of headlights, maybe more.
I did the same for my wife’s 99 Miata and neighbor’s 09 Santa Fe…except for the clear coat. Worked up from wet sanding with 400 up to about 3000 grit, then used Meguiar's PlastX cleaner for the hand polish followed by a Mother’s wax with UV protectant. It stays pretty clear for a few months, but I can clear them up again in about 15 minutes with just the PlastX and the wax.
Hope this helps!