Suggestions on a diy fix for the v etchings in headlight housing?
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 600
Likes: 45
From: Minneapolis, MN/Breckenridge, CO
2010 E550 4Matic Sport P2
Suggestions on a diy fix for the v etchings in headlight housing?
I'm debating opening the housings up to paint the chrome black. (Planning to leave accents chrome, similar to the E63). If I do, I am curious if anyone has suggestions on how to remove the v etchings. I know it's temporary but still worth addressing, especially if I have them physically opened already.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 277
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From: Alexandria, VA
2000 E430 Sport
I hear OEM headlights are nearly impossible to open. Might be better off sourcing aftermarket. 
Etching just going to come back anyway. I don't even notice unless I'm looking for it...and if I have time to look for it, its a good day! Either way good luck. I was thinking of painting mine the same way but the cost isn't worth the benefit for me as opening the lights appears to be a real drag.
Etching just going to come back anyway. I don't even notice unless I'm looking for it...and if I have time to look for it, its a good day! Either way good luck. I was thinking of painting mine the same way but the cost isn't worth the benefit for me as opening the lights appears to be a real drag.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 600
Likes: 45
From: Minneapolis, MN/Breckenridge, CO
2010 E550 4Matic Sport P2
Multiple members here have done it with success..... It's all about patience and heat. And I know it will indeed come back. Trust me, I wouldn't tackle opening up the headlights if it where not for a few other factors.
1.) Grill is coming off to experiment with chrome removal for paint match
2.) Bumper cover is coming off along with grill to change up the install of my Escort 9500ci Radar head (getting relocated) and upgrading the Escort zr4 shifters with AL Priorities offering (at least that's the plan at the moment).
3.) If I already have the bumper cover off, why not pull the lights and paint them as I've been wanting to do so anyway...
1.) Grill is coming off to experiment with chrome removal for paint match
2.) Bumper cover is coming off along with grill to change up the install of my Escort 9500ci Radar head (getting relocated) and upgrading the Escort zr4 shifters with AL Priorities offering (at least that's the plan at the moment).
3.) If I already have the bumper cover off, why not pull the lights and paint them as I've been wanting to do so anyway...
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 748
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From: Zion
W212 E550 4M P2
Happy new year all and good luck to the OP on their headlights. Let us know how it goes...
Last edited by Johnny Rad; Dec 27, 2016 at 10:48 PM.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 600
Likes: 45
From: Minneapolis, MN/Breckenridge, CO
2010 E550 4Matic Sport P2
I would imagine the repair is less effective/options are more limited when you try to work through the opening for the bulb/ballast than have the lens open/exposed. I will do a bit more research but want to ensure that whatever product I use does not amplify the issue once reassembled due to any residue "cooking" if that makes any sense 
. I'm guessing some plastic x or similar polish followed by a thorough cleaning will be the best option.
. I'm guessing some plastic x or similar polish followed by a thorough cleaning will be the best option.
