Headlight assembly replacement

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Nov 26, 2020 | 09:04 PM

gkitf16

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Joined: Feb 2011

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From: USA

Headlight assembly replacement

A few years ago I put in a new pair of headlight assemblies, after a failed attempt at restoring the hazed-out original ones with a 3M sanding kit. One word, don't! Pretty much ruined them. Lesson learned.
So now the replacements are pretty badly hazed out too. Forget exactly where I got them, but I wanted to know any recommendations what mfr's besides buying OEM from Honda will last. Are there significant differences in the lens plastics/UV coatings between aftermarket brands? This is for a 2009 base Fit. Using LED bulbs which have worked very well.

Last edited by gkitf16; Nov 26, 2020 at 09:06 PM. Reason: Added details

Nov 26, 2020 | 10:03 PM

Red 05

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Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 1,119

From: Tuscaloosa

I've had Depo headlights in mine since 2015 or so, maybe 2016. They're just as adept at holding up to UV hazing as the OEMs are. Spent maybe 170?

Nov 26, 2020 | 11:50 PM

gkitf16

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From: USA

Which style housing color best for LEDs?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red 05

I've had Depo headlights in mine since 2015 or so, maybe 2016. They're just as adept at holding up to UV hazing as the OEMs are. Spent maybe 170?

Which type DEPOs do you have? There are 2 different ones I'm seeing on eBay. Here they are

https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Depo-He...e/183607528415
Item specifics

Spoiler

Last edited by gkitf16; Nov 26, 2020 at 11:50 PM. Reason: Clarification

Nov 26, 2020 | 11:54 PM

gkitf16

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From: USA

Open the spoiler drop-down, I F'd it up editing it and can't undo it! Anyways, both eBay links and what I'm trying to decide is which reflector style works best for an LED bulb which I already have. Not using halogens, hate them, nasty looking color. Disabled DRL's a long time ago, even Sylvania Silverstars aren't that great and don't last long.

Nov 26, 2020 | 11:56 PM

Red 05

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Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 1,119

From: Tuscaloosa

Only difference is the color inside the lamp Physically they're identical, difference is between base and sport.

Nov 27, 2020 | 12:19 AM

gkitf16

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Joined: Feb 2011

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From: USA

I'm probably gonna go with the chrome-lined ones, just don't care much for the black. Seems it would absorb some of the beam too and lose a bit of clarity IMO

Last edited by gkitf16; Nov 27, 2020 at 12:20 AM. Reason: touch up

Nov 27, 2020 | 12:27 AM

gkitf16

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Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 313

From: USA

I hadn't realized 'til I checked further, they are the same fitment Base and Sport, just style change to chromed for Sport. Like how they look better, should put out a little more beam IMO

Nov 27, 2020 | 02:38 AM

Zac321

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Joined: Nov 2020

Posts: 1

From: NSW

Headlights and tail lights upgrade from 2010 to 2011

I have got a 2010 vtis 1.5L, with a similar issue with the front headlights clouding over. I was thinking of replacing the existing headlights with the newer style of headlight found in the 2011 model. Does anyone know if they will fit? they do look very similar. The 2011 model also came with rear LED tail lights. Will they fit?

Nov 27, 2020 | 05:30 AM

Frenzal

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Joined: Jun 2014

Posts: 871

From: Canada

I've restored my headlights many times, on many cars without any problem. Takes 30 to 60 minutes, so not too long. You just have to know what to do I guess...

Nov 27, 2020 | 12:53 PM

#10

gkitf16

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From: USA

I've seen what people are doing to fix them, but unless it is done with quality polishing materials, and then sealed, it will eventually just haze out again. Bad results previously for me

Nov 27, 2020 | 05:41 PM

#11

Red 05

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Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 1,119

From: Tuscaloosa

Could try this kit? Eric O knows his stuff.

Nov 28, 2020 | 11:24 AM

#12

Frenzal

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Joined: Jun 2014

Posts: 871

From: Canada

Quote:

Originally Posted by gkitf16

I've seen what people are doing to fix them, but unless it is done with quality polishing materials, and then sealed, it will eventually just haze out again. Bad results previously for me

You have to do it once every 2-3 years. One hour every 3 years isn't that bad...

Nov 30, 2020 | 12:03 PM

#13

BaySFit

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Joined: Jun 2020

Posts: 46

From: Bay Area, California

I use headlight armor and so far have been very happy with it. I polished my headlights after purchasing the car (I’m the second owner) then immediately after applied the headlight armor. It’s been roughly a year, and they still look great. No hazing so far, and it does a good job protecting my headlights from scratches. I don’t know if it will stop the haze long term, but if it does, I can simply replace them when the vinyl gets old/worn.