Festiva Headlights

[gen]

Ive just bought a 96 Festiva...yay. To pass the roadworthy I need to clean the inside of the headlights (in the casing)!!?? Ive been told over time they build up with fuel...stuff from engine.
So ive been told the headlights are glued on!!! Id need a heat lamp to get them off?? and a glue gun to put them on!! OMG if someone could tell me if this is correct would be greatly appreciated. If this is true im just going to get new ones and get a mechanic or similar to do it. Next question is.. where can i get new headlights? Will i have to go through Ford? Thanks in advance.....Gen

[GenevaDirt]

no need to take them apart. If they are yellowed or hazed they make a buffing kit that may work for you. If not they should be pretty easy to find. It is the same as our Aspire...so if need be someone could ship some to you...I would be willing to help if necessary.

[elcamino1]

if they are plastic wet sand with 1500 then 2000 extra fine sandpaper,then buff out with extra fine rubbing compound,works for me !!!

[WmWatt]

The headlight housing unscrews as a unit (Haynes manual pg 12-9). Looks like you first have to remove the plastic grille. Don't turn the adjustment screws in the housing or your lights will be out of line. The bulb assembly unscrews from the back of the headlight. I've never cleaned the inside of the light but you should be able to get water and a bottle brush in there. When I clean bottles I put some soapy water inside then drop a rag in and shake. Looks like a pretty simple job. It's glass.

[FestYboy]

the second gen festys in Aus are NOT glass headlamps. 3M makes a good kit that i like to use for such an issue.

[gen]

Thanks

Thanks to everyones replys. Been a great help. Yep im in Aus, so no they arnt glass headlights. Ill try the 3M Kit i think, and see what happens at the second roadworthy.
Appreciate all the help. This is a great site.
XOXOXOXO

[jrwitten]

Hey Gen, whereabouts down under are u ? Iv'e got a cousin around Ballarat.....