Advance Auto Parts

Product Review: Crystal View Headlight Restorer/Defogger

I own a 1996 Chevy Silverado pickup truck and have kept it in near showroom condition since I bought it. Lately, I've been doing some small makeovers such as replacing the stock taillight lenses with the Euro style, replacing the parking light lenses, etc. I also bought the high intensity blue bulbs for my headlights to get the look of late model headlights with the blue beams. But, when I looked closely at my headlight lenses, the surface of both had a cloudy appearance.

When I priced replacement headlight lenses, it would have cost me over $100 for a pair, plus shipping, tax, etc. At that point, I decided I could live with the foggy lenses. But then I saw an article in Handyman magazine that listed some great auto fixes and found the CV (Crystal View) product that supposedly would clear up the lenses. At a price less than $20 for the kit, I decided it was worth a gamble. I bought the CV kit at Advance Auto Parts, but since discovered they sell it at Walmart and other locations as well.

I used the kit, which is all contained in a silvery colored bag and it will treat two headlights. It includes small sheets of sandpaper, two kinds of chemical pouches, gloves, and applicator cloths. The most important part of the kit is the directions page. It is extremely important that you follow the directions, step by step. I've underlined and emphasized this due to the "guy thing" of rushing into a project without really reading the instructions closely.

It's not difficult and not rocket science, and anyone can use this product. Again, the directions must be followed in the order given or you won't achieve the desired results. I put the direction sheet (one page) on top of the hood so I could easily refer to it. I put my truck in the garage as the process should not be done in direct sunlight or if there's a chance of rain within a short time after application.

I spent about fifteen minutes per headlight and was astonished at the results: The lenses looked new! All with just a small investment of a half-hour of my time and minimal elbow grease. And the best part is that this is a permanent solution, according to the company. They back up that claim with a lifetime warranty if used as directed.

Be sure to check out their web site that I've provided in the source link section. It's great to buy a product that actually works!