Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Aesthetics Fixing "bugged out" lights

I just bought a second hand 99 SVT with 26,000 miles on it -- apparently, it was driven in a part of Florida where there are lots of bugs, and the previous owner did a horrible job of removing them from the headlight housings. The result is not dissimilar from having sandpaper run across the headlight covers.

Any ideas on how to fix this, or do I have to buy new headlamp units on both sides? Except for some very minor cracks to the leather on the driver's seat and some small stains in the carpet, the car is mint in all other aspects, and I'd like to make sure it looks that way all around.

BTW, this is my second Contour - my first was a 99 SE Sport V6 Manual, and I'm tickled to be back - particularly a SVT!

Welcome back!

Are they scratched or are the bugs embedded on the lights?

If they are scratched, you can try using (IIRC) 1200 grit sandpaper and plastic polish, then wax.

If it's just bugs embedded, try: bug & tar remover, WD40, Meguiar's Cleaner Wax.

Also try a search for "clean headlight" under Aesthetic.

Good luck.