Your car's tail lights can become foggy and clouded due to age and damage. Clearing them lets other drivers differentiate between your regular tail lights and brake lights. It's also aesthetically pleasing, and you don't have to break the bank to do it. Look for scratches or signs of aging. If your tail lights look clear when wet, but have a white film on them when dry, the plastic might have oxidized. Rather than replacing the tail light, or taking it to an auto detailer, there are easy ways to clear them at home.
Apply a nickel-sized dollop of a plastic cleaner/polish such as PlastX to a polishing pad. Work the polish over the entire surface of the tail light using some pressure. The idea is to smooth any scratches and remove oxidation.
When you are satisfied, buff the residue off with a microfiber towel. Tough cases might require you to repeat this process. You can clear the pad and towel of all residue by using an over-the-counter citrus detergent concentrate.
Cut the sandpaper and mount it on a sanding block, or just hold it in your hand. Use a 1500-grit (very fine) sandpaper. Prior to sanding, protect the paint around your tail light by putting tape on it.
Spray a soap and water mix onto the tail light you want to clear. Begin wet sanding. Sand it side to side (not in circles) using medium pressure, being careful not to push too hard.
Apply a polishing compound with a cotton or microfiber applicator once you are satisfied with the sand job. Use only enough to create a slight haze, then buff it clear with a microfiber towel.
