Headlights

[Lukegrandamgt2001]

I just bought a used 2001 grand am gt and one of the headlights is really dirty and i cant get it clean, the other looks brand new so I guess one was replaced. During the day one light stays on all the time and the other goes on and off depending on how bright it is outside. Is there any way to make them both daytime running or automatic? And does anyone know which headlight restoration kits work the best?

 

[Kevlar]

Sounds like you need to check the wiring, starting at the headlamp for clean, solid connection.

For headlamp housing restoration, all you are doing is polishing the plastic. Same as airplane windshields. You can buy a special restoration kit if you want to, or, if you have polishing compound around (not too coarse) and maybe a low RPM buffing wheel you can shine those puppies up as nice as they can be depending on their condition.

I do mine by hand and they clear up Ok. I could make them really pretty with an electric buffer but I haven't seen the need to spend the money on that yet. If you do use a buffer, be careful not to buff too hard or fast as you can melt the surface.

 

[richardgriese]

I found a cheap buffer at autozone ($20) that seems to do the trick too - it's not too powerful.

I replaced both of my headlights since they had cracks and were leaking. You can find them at rockauto.com for $37.00 each should you need to replace it.

 

[BeStPRoGiE]

i agree with Kevlar, you need to check the wiring on the light that was replaced. trace it and compare it to the one that is working properly as the person who replaced it might of taken out a an important part of it and just ended up micky mousing it.
They prob. replaced it without taking note of what connects to what, and they rewired it wrong. (hate to admit it but i did the same thing)

Also, a buffing kit...restoration kit...what ever you want to call it....from my own personal experience on my 99 Pontiac, its just not worth it and u end up paying allot more than you would of if u just would of gotten another headlight assembly. There are allot of places online where you can get it from anywhere between 50 and 100 bucks. Save yourself the frustration and time of having to do both the restoration kits and buying a new one.

(especially if one was already replaced, because no matter how much buffing you do, you will never get it to look like the one that was already replaced.)