Can You Use Car Wax on Windows or Headlights?

I’ve mentioned before that I used to own a small headlight restoration service company. Customers would always ask me if they could just buff out their foggy headlights or use some sort of polish.

Technically, you can use a polish or wax on your headlights, but it won’t last long. I would always caution against it.

But that’s if you’re trying to restore your lights (fix foggy headlights). If you’re washing your car and want that extra shine on your headlights or windshield/windows, you can use car wax to get what you want.

A vehicle is a costly investment that is an integral part of everyday life. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential factors to keeping it looking good and running correctly. With all the various tasks you can do for your ride, you may wonder, can you use automotive wax on windows or headlights? Although not every brand of car wax is ideal for this task, it is vital that you do some research into the brand type and uses. 

Man waxing a red car headlights and windows

Why You Should Use Automotive Wax on Windows or Headlights

Automotive wax is not just for the body of your vehicle. For example, if you have a car with yellow, old headlights that are no longer bright, car wax can be the perfect solution to help rectify this problem. New vehicle owners can also use wax as a preventative measure to help preserve the quality of the headlight covers and keep them functional. 

There are several benefits to using this versatile product on the windows and headlights as well. Some ways wax can help your vehicle include: 

  • Providing UV protection on the windows to help protect the vehicle’s interior from fading and sun damage
  • Adds extra sheen to the windows to help keep them clear 
  • Repels water better 
  • It offers added protection against dirt and debris 
  • Reduces the yellowing effects of UV rays on headlight covers 
  • Protects the clear coat film on headlights from wear and tear

You may have already been choosing wax when you use automatic car wash stations without even realizing the benefits for your windows and headlights. Although, if you have always skipped the wax because you were leery of wax on the windows, you are not alone. 

If you have never chosen to use car wax before, it is not too late. Even vehicles that show yellowing damage on headlight covers can still bring them back to life and restore them with wax products. 

buffing car headlight with wax polish

Types of Automobile Wax Suitable for Windows and Headlights 

Unfortunately, not all car wax products are suitable for windows and headlights. In addition, some items with harsh chemical ingredients can create a cloudy haze on headlight covers over time, decreasing your visibility.

Car wax is available in three different forms, depending on the purpose of the wax and the area you apply it to the vehicle. These products include paste, liquid, and spray versions.

  • Paste Waxes: Easier to apply than liquid versions, but more challenging than spray products 
  • Liquid Waxes: Cleans and protects the best out of all three types 
  • Spray Waxes: Easiest type to use, but does not last as long as the other two wax types 

Additionally, some car owners confuse wax with sealant and lump them in the same category. Unfortunately, there are differences, as these products provide distinct advantages. For example, sealant can help make it easier to clean your headlights and windows, while the wax will protect them.

So what types of automobile wax are suitable for your car windows and headlights, then? Here are some terrific choices to use on your vehicle that will not cause issues: 

GearSlap's Pick
3M Synthetic Wax Protectant, 16 oz
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Some car owners are familiar with products like RainX that can provide exceptional water repellant with an easy application. However, it may seem like this product works like automotive wax, it does have its drawbacks. 

  • It does not offer the exceptional protective capabilities against UV rays that wax does
  • Will need a continuous application, depending on weather conditions in your location 
  • Only provides water repellent features
Can you use car wax on headlights

Will Car Wax Help With Headlight Restoration? 

Many automobile owners will need to restore their headlights due to yellowing or a cloudy haze on the lens cover. Your best bet is to use a special restoration wax kit that can clean the surface and have it looking new again so you can protect it with a coat of automotive wax. 

Sometimes, headlights need a buffer to help decrease the yellowing film built up over time. It is possible to remove this, but remember that the lens cover will become thinner with buffing, so protective wax is critical to keep it looking good and functional once again. 

How Often Should You Use Car Wax on Windows or Headlights? 

The timeline for waxing your vehicle, including the windows and headlights, can vary depending on your climate. But as a standard rule of thumb, this task should be done every three months or so. Applying wax four times per year will give your automobile the protection it needs against weather elements and damaging UV rays. 

Can you use car wax on windshield

Hand Application or Power Applicators? 

Few people like to hand wax their cars, especially as often as every three months. However, you may wonder if you can finish this job quicker and easier with a power applicator. The method for applying car wax will depend on the type of wax and the location you are using it. 

Windows 

Ideally, you do not want to use power applicators when waxing the windows on a vehicle. Some waxes can contain abrasive components and could cause damage with intense waxing from this type of application. 

When applying wax to car windows, use a soft, clean microfiber cloth or pad and complete this task by hand. Doing this task manually will give you more control over the application process and less chance of causing scratches to your glass. 

Headlights 

Depending on the condition of your headlights, you may have to use a power applicator to wax this area of your vehicle. Applying wax to your headlights by hand will be sufficient if your automobile is brand new. Alternatively, a power applicator will produce the best results if you need to remove any yellowing or haziness. 

You should still be mindful of any abrasive components in the wax paste or liquid that could cause damage to the headlight covers if using a power applicator. Even durable plastic covers with a coating can still sustain damage if you use improper application methods and wax products.

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