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Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

Replacement of Front Headlight Glass

Model: Volkswagen Golf Golf IV, MK 4, Golf 4 - Years 1997-2003
Part: Headlight

Due to exposure to sunlight and cleaning detergents, headlight glasses tend to become cloudy: they can be restored (with a specific grinding and painting operation) or the glass can be replaced with an aftermarket part.
Once the headlight is removed from the vehicle, place it on a comfortable workbench and first detach the metal retaining clips.
Heat the edge of the headlight along the joint line between the glass and the plastic with a heat gun (do not hold the heat gun too close, otherwise the plastic will deform); use a medium-sized flat screwdriver to pry between the edge of the glass and the plastic support to detach the glass from the support: if necessary, repeat the operation in subsequent steps.
Once the glass is removed, eliminate all adhesive from the edge of the headlight while continuing to heat it with the heat gun.
After removing the adhesive, clean the chrome edge of any remaining residues.
Apply tape along the outer edge of the headlight to avoid getting adhesive on it; then apply sealant silicone inside the edge of the headlight (it is recommended to use a thin nozzle and not to overapply the product) and insert the new glass, pressing it to ensure it fits correctly in its seat, and apply the metal retaining clips (it is suggested to wrap some masking tape around the headlight to keep pressure on the glass during drying). Once the silicone has dried, clean up any excess and refit the headlight.
Proceed in the same manner for the other headlight.

Updated on 3 February 2026 by ScegliAuto

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