How to rid sticky residue off headlights ?

[SaabKen]

When I bought my 9000 (2001) I got some 3M headlight protective film (~ 1.5mm) from a fellow Saaber. I applied a piece to each headlight lens. Over the years seepage occurred on both sides and mildew began to grow. I finally decided this week to rip them off since both pieces seemed to have become somewhat cloudy, hence reducing my light output.

After taking off each piece, the area directly above the lowbeam has the sticky residue that I can't scrape off (using a plastic scraper for kitchen pots & pans):



But the adhesive is quite stubborn and I'm unable to rid 50% of it on each side.

Are there any chemicals suitable for this sort of application ?

[Shazam]

Does the 9000 have glass lenses, or does it have plastic lenses?

[Saabhat93]

Glass lenses.

Use acetone and that sticky will be gone, gone, gone.

[SaabKen]

Glass:

[SaabKen]

Glass lenses.

Use acetone and that sticky will be gone, gone, gone.

Thanks. Use it straight up ? Apply with ?

[Shazam]

Glass... then I'd go with acetone like Saabhat said. Watch out for your clear coat though. Also heard WD-40 works, but then you'll have an oily mess to clean up where the acetone will just evaporate.

Pour a little on a rag, and scrub away.

[SaabKen]

I'll open the hood so won't risk strafing the hood paint. And maybe cover/tape the top of the bumper area under the lens too.

SO after I rid the goo, I still like to apply some new film. I only need a small amount (for each headlight, and maybe for the foglights too as they are more prone to rock dings). Any recommendations ?

[Saabhat93]

Just on some TP or a paper towel will do. Nail polish remover isn't as harsh but will work with a tiny bit more persuasion. Definitely watch the paint, though.

I've never used a film for the headlights. What does it do other than stop them from pitting?

[jlrSAAB]

my next project for my Opel Omega is to clean the headlights.......since both plastic or crystal seemed to have become somewhat cloudy, hence reducing my light output.
I will try with:
- ginevra drink,
- crystal-sun with some contend of ammoniac
or
-3M paint polish