What's better? Restored or New Headlights? We'll show you what's best using this WJ Grand Cherokee

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:36 Test Steps and Testing Notes
03:49 Notes on the Original Headlights - One is Clearer?
05:01 Setting Up the Lux Meter
06:24 Test Note: Battery Charger and Meter Readings
06:52 Cloudy Lights - Lux Meter Test
08:06 Post Cloud Lights Test Notes / How does restore hold up?
09:51 Restoring the OEM Cloudy Lights
12:21 Restored OEM Headlights - Lux Meter Test
13:37 Swapping the headlight assemblies - aftermarket build quality notes
17:02 Aftermarket non-Adjusted - Lux Meter Test
18:35 Aftermarket Adjusted - Lux Meter Test
19:12 Reviewing Images of Light Output and Beam Patterns - All Lights
21:09 Lux Meter Graph Data and Discussion
23:01 My Take - What would I do and Conclusion?
Note: No products used within this video were provided to me in full or at discount, nor do I specifically endorse anything used here. What you see here is what I paid for fully on my own, and the results of my use presented here.
On today's video, we take a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ and do some tests to determine if it's better to restore the cloudy and yellowed headlights or to replace them with a set of aftermarket units.
This test will feature two main outputs: First, we used a Lux meter to test the light output of the clouded lights, restored OEM, and replacement aftermarkets. Then we took each and took images using the same camera settings for each as a comparison of overall light output and light spread.
Referenced within is IIHS testing protocols for headlights that can be found here: www.iihs.org/ratings/about-ou... (Specifically at this direct link which I shortened via TinyURL: tinyurl.com/4eybk4sx)
If you are looking for parts or tools used in this video, I will be linking them below - please note these go to our Amazon Affiliates program, so Vortex Garage may see a small commission if you use/purchase from these links. I only link to things I've purchased or would buy personally.
TOOLS:
Lux Meter used:
Dr.meter LX1330B Digital Illuminance Light Meter, 0-200,000 Measurement Range Lux Meter
amzn.to/3G9XFwo
PARTS:
Aftermarket Lights Used in this Video:
DNA Motoring HL-OH-JGC99-CH-AM Compatible with 99-04 Jeep Grand Cherokee
amzn.to/3QhkN0O
(While I prefer the OEMs, they did perform well with adjustment.)
Sylvania Headlight Restoration Kit:
amzn.to/3ieHE0p
Also for 2004 WJ's - Matching Foglights (Aftermarket) Not in video but I did purchase these and plan to use them. WJ's often have cracked foglights.
For 2004 Jeep Grand-Cherokee Pair Fog Lights R=L Single Piece CH2592126 CH2592126 - replaces 55156733AC 55156733ACv
amzn.to/3X1RnWE
Other Headlights: The Laredo style black housings:
DNA Motoring HL-OH-JGC99-BK-AM Black Amber Headlights Assembly Replacement Compatible with 99-04 Jeep Grand Cherokee
amzn.to/3vC452u
Always check/compare to what you have to ensure correct fit and look!

[@seakir3.14]

Good video and nice test. My headlights were cloudy so I did a wet and dry scrub and waxed it to finish them off. Didn't bother using any clear coat or UV protection stuff. Did that about 3 years ago and they only need a quick wax to remove any crud in order to spruce them up. (I used 1800 then went to 2000 and finished on 2400 grit, using small circular patterns and plenty of water.) Also, swap the standard bulbs for 30% brighter all weather ones- they remove the yellow tint and add a whiter light for a more modern look.

[@howardgilbert5008]

Great video! I restored the OEM on my WJ with a 2k clear and they lasted 8 years. The difference while driving was unbelievable.

[@VortexGarage]

That is awesome. Actually makes me think that using 2k clear would be a great last step for the Sylvania kit over the jar of stuff they give. I bet it'll last way longer as yours has.

[@JimStepsride]

Good to see another video from you! I used the Mequires Kit back in 2016 on a 2004 Grand Cherokee. It is getting to a point where I should do it again. It bothers me but still look pretty good.

[@VortexGarage]

I'm impressed with how well these restoration kits work these days! And thank you - I'm glad to have a video out finally, I have lots more half-edited so I really need to take some time to finish 'em up and post! I'll be doing more WJ stuff this year as well.

[@davidpowell3347]

Would be interesting to find out whether it is true as one advertisement claimed that a new standard/plain OEM headlight bulb is brighter than one that is used,say,to 70% of the way to average burn out time.
Also I can't figure out why putting blue filter/pigment in/on the quartz bulb would help with brightness-I would think it is just subtracting some of the red or orange light and converting it to heat. (Some of the bulbs advertised as extra bright have blue color on the bulb) I think "Xtravision" or "Nighthawk" are clear. They don't seem to be available in 9006XS or 9005XS which would fit the WJ.