Thread: Restoring and/or Tinting Gallardo Headlights

I have an '05 Gallardo and not happy with the condition of the front headlights.

Anyone have experience restoring or know the options with these? I've heard there may be some type of covering available--all though I don't think that's the right terminology?

I've restored many sets of headlights with progressive wet sanding starting as course as needed up to 3000 grit followed by use of wool pad then foam, but was also thinking of blacking out the headlights.

Anyone ever used tint for a blackout? My taillights and markers are already blacked out via the usual method (mix clear and black paint).

I was thinking this may look good and this way it would be reversible. Was thinking like a 25 or 35% tint. Not sure if this has ever been done or would even work?

it does work using the clear/black mix and looks good, I've used that same method on plenty of my customers cars. Definitely do not use the black out in a can product, I think its called VHT Niteshades. Looks horrible on any car, and especially on headlights, for whatever reason they turn purple.

you could also try using the tinted film, which likewise is easily removed. it not just window tint film, you have to get the film designed for that application. Just restore the headlamp first.

I dont know if theres any special procedure or difference with the gallardo headlights for restoration other than what you mentioned. There are some products on the market, its a SEM product, that is like clearcoat with advanced UV inhibitors and flex agents for plastic headlights. I use it in my headlight restorations to help prevent the lights from oxidizing again a few months down the road.

Originally Posted by Shine.Addict

it does work using the clear/black mix and looks good, I've used that same method on plenty of my customers cars. Definitely do not use the black out in a can product, I think its called VHT Niteshades. Looks horrible on any car, and especially on headlights, for whatever reason they turn purple.

you could also try using the tinted film, which likewise is easily removed. it not just window tint film, you have to get the film designed for that application. Just restore the headlamp first.

I dont know if theres any special procedure or difference with the gallardo headlights for restoration other than what you mentioned. There are some products on the market, its a SEM product, that is like clearcoat with advanced UV inhibitors and flex agents for plastic headlights. I use it in my headlight restorations to help prevent the lights from oxidizing again a few months down the road.

thanks for the input! I will restore the headlights this weekend as a starting point and then want to black them out, but has to be a film as don't want the front's perm as the back and sides were done. Had those done by the paint shop when the LP nose was added and they did a killer job (clear with black added and then sprayed). Will need to research the film products you are referring to as these are new to me...

Much appreciated!

You might try looking up Oracal 8300 translucent film. Youtube has some videos of it being applied to headlights if you want to see the process. Hope the project goes well.

Originally Posted by Shine.Addict

You might try looking up Oracal 8300 translucent film. Youtube has some videos of it being applied to headlights if you want to see the process. Hope the project goes well.

Thanks for the info! I'll check it out!

wouldn't that prevent you from seeing well while driving? Looking forward to the outcome of the headlight cleanup and tint.
DIY for G headlight restoration

Hit up bc. He had his front lights tinted on his lp560.

I say tint it and see how you like it.

Going in tomorrow for clear bra and tinted headlights.

Post up some before/after pictures if you can. Thanks.