3M Headlight Restoration Results

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023.

  1. Noahdoge

    Noahdoge Active Member

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    E302153B-7878-44EF-91B7-A2748496DE59.jpeg
     
    #1 Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023
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  2. 2010moneypit?

    2010moneypit? Active Member

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    Looks good hopefully it lasts.
     
    #2 2010moneypit?, Jan 15, 2023
  3. Noahdoge

    Noahdoge Active Member

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    There’s two coats of clear coat that comes with the kit. 3m claims it will last at least two years.
     
    #3 Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023
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  4. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Patron saint of newly poured sidewalks

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    I see for a new 3rd gen headlight (regular, not LED) suggested retail (according to Toyota USA) is over a grand USD, and US dealership near me is asking $704. Ouch...
     
    #4 Mendel Leisk, Jan 15, 2023
  5. Montgomery

    Montgomery Senior Member

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    After market stocks go for $60 to $75 each
     
    #5 Montgomery, Jan 15, 2023
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  6. Noahdoge

    Noahdoge Active Member

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    C08D570A-D97A-42E4-8F84-2AF897941981.jpeg This is the exact product that was used. Less than $20 and you get to keep your good quality oem headlights.
     
    #6 Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023
  7. Grit

    Grit Senior Member

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    Headlight photo without the light on. Same like post like new tires posts but upload only front and rear car view photos only.
     
    #7 Grit, Jan 15, 2023
  8. Montgomery

    Montgomery Senior Member

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    Don't get me wrong Noah. I admire your work. Came out beautifully! I did this once. It does work. I just don't want to spend the time doing it. You have to do it right, in the order for it to come out the way yours did and you nailed it! Now I just buy the replacements when needed.
     
    #8 Montgomery, Jan 15, 2023
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  9. Noahdoge

    Noahdoge Active Member

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    Thank you! Yeah that was way more work that I thought it would be. Start to finish was around 2 hours. Super messy too, especially when you get to the wet sanding stage.
     
    #9 Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023
    Last edited: Jan 15, 2023
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  10. TMR-JWAP

    TMR-JWAP Senior Member

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    The problem I've experienced with several aftermarket (<$100 each) headlights is the gaps between the headlight assembly and body panels and hood is whacked. I've had much better luck keeping the originals and using very fine wet/dry sandpaper and a good clearcoat.
     
    #10 TMR-JWAP, Jan 15, 2023
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  11. Noahdoge

    Noahdoge Active Member

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    I did this strictly for cosmetics. It’s all about the visual clarity not anything to do with the brightness… even though it did help a bit.
     
    #11 Noahdoge, Jan 15, 2023
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  12. PriusII&C

    PriusII&C Active Member

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    I used the 3M kit once on my old Odyssey. Yes, it took time, and it kept the headlights clear for a couple of years. But later I used some headlight polish compound from O'reilly. It was much easier to use, and worked about as well as the 3M kit.
     
    #12 PriusII&C, Jan 16, 2023
  13. alftoy

    alftoy Senior Member

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    Aftermarket headlamp assemblies? Either TYC or Depo CAPA certified for proper fit.
    Car-part.com for OEM assemblies sometimes as low as $50 not faded.

    Meguiars Ultimate Compound
    Meguiar&#39;s G17216 Ultimate Compound - 15.2 oz. - Walmart.com
    3M Trizact 3000 grit and 1000 grit both wet dry
    3M™ Trizact™ Performance Sandpaper 03064SRP, 3-2/3&#34; x 9&#34;, 3000 Grit, 6/Case - Walmart.com
    11 Pcs 3&#34; Drill Buffing Kit for Auto Maintenance - Walmart.com

    Spray with a UV clear coat for added protection and longevity.
    Eastwood 2K DuraSpray Clear Coat Paint

    Will have enough to do maybe 5 or more cars, like I have among family, friends.
     

    Attached Files:

    #13 alftoy, Jan 16, 2023
    Last edited: Jan 16, 2023
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