Have a 2000 Grand Caravan that won't pass state inspection due to hazy headlights. I understand it's a common problem. This is my "back-up" vehicle, used primarily to get me and my kayak to local lakes and rivers, but obviously I need "new" headlights. Would like to get out of this as cheaply as possible. One mechanic offered to attempt to buff them out, but no guarantees and about $35.00 invested even if it doesn't work. One used parts outlet tells me it's such a common problem that the only thing that makes sense is to buy new. ($170.00 for the set.) Another says no problem getting good used units, $100.00 for the pair. I've also been searching e-bay but am leery of getting into a back and forth hassle; lights that still won't pass inspection, etc.
So, what do folks who know about these things advise?
Thanks!
Rob

 

Welcome to DF
This is common problem. Most of the time they can be buff out, and be okay for a while. But you don't want to take the chance to buff the lites out, then that leaves you the only way to solve the headlamp problem. New headlamps.

 

I know we have had real good luck with polishing the housings, give it a try. We have a dent removal guy that does them, they look nice.

 

Making progress. Found a good set of light assemblies for $25.00 per, locally. I've swapped them out, and all went well except:
I now have high beams only, no lows. Kept the original bulbs and I'm wondering if I damaged the low beam portion of both bulbs during the exchange, but that seems unlikely to me. Am I missing something in the installation? All I did was to disconnect the turn signal and main bulbs, remove the to bolt and the 3 back screws, remove the old and put in the new.