2026 Pricing Summary
Professional headlight restoration in Alberta runs $60–$200 for a pair, depending on condition and vehicle type. Dobson Headlight Restoration (Lethbridge) starts at $99 with ceramic coating included.
- ✓ Light oxidation: $60–$90
- ✓ Moderate yellowing: $80–$130
- ✓ Heavy oxidation: $130–$200
- ✓ Ceramic coating included — lasts 2–3 years in Alberta
If you've been quoted wildly different prices or tempted by a $20 kit at Canadian Tire, this guide is for you. Headlight restoration pricing in Alberta varies quite a bit — here's what actually drives the cost and what you should expect to pay for a result that lasts.
The Price Range: What to Expect
Professional headlight restoration in Alberta typically falls in the $60–$200 range for a pair, depending on a few key factors. Here's a rough breakdown:
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Light oxidation, clean lenses | $60–$90 |
| Moderate yellowing & hazing | $80–$130 |
| Heavy oxidation, deep scratches | $130–$200 |
At Dobson Headlight Restoration in Lethbridge, pricing is transparent and quoted upfront after a quick look at the vehicle. No surprises.
What Affects the Price
1. Oxidation Severity
The worse the oxidation, the more stages of sanding and compounding are required to cut through to clear polycarbonate. Lenses that have been neglected for years take more time and more product.
2. Vehicle Type
Larger headlight assemblies (trucks, SUVs, full-size vans) take longer to work and may cost slightly more than compact car headlights. Oddly shaped or deeply recessed assemblies also add time.
3. Add-Ons
If you want to combine your restoration with an LED bulb upgrade, that's priced separately but pairs well — you're already addressing the lens clarity, so upgrading the bulb output at the same time makes a lot of sense.
4. UV Protection — This One Matters
Some services do a basic polish and call it done. Without UV protection — ideally a ceramic coat — the oxidation comes back within months. Any quote that doesn't include UV sealant or ceramic coating is a short-term fix at best.
Dobson's service includes ceramic coating on every job. That's what makes the results last 2–3 years instead of 6–12 months.
Why DIY Kits Disappoint
The kits at auto parts stores work — temporarily. The problem is almost all of them come with a thin wax-based UV sealant that breaks down within a few months of Alberta sun.
You can spend 2–3 hours on a Saturday, get decent results, and watch it go cloudy again before winter. The sanding and polishing steps are doable as a DIY project. The UV protection is where consumer kits fall short.
If you enjoy the process and are okay re-doing it every season, DIY is fine. If you want to do it once and not think about it for a few years, a professional ceramic-coated restoration is worth the price difference.
Mobile Service = No Shop Markup
One factor that keeps Dobson's pricing competitive: there's no shop overhead. No building lease, no waiting area, no receptionist. The service comes to your driveway or workplace in Lethbridge.
Traditional auto shops doing headlight restoration often charge $150–$200+ because they have overhead to cover. Mobile service eliminates that cost and passes the savings through.
Is It Worth It?
On a $30,000 truck, spending $100–$130 to restore clarity, safety, and appearance is a straightforward yes. Even on an older vehicle, clear headlights affect night driving safety and can influence the outcome of an Alberta safety inspection.
Compare to headlight replacement: OEM assemblies run $200–$400+ per side, plus labour. Restoration at $99–$240+ for both headlights is a fraction of that cost with 90%+ of the optical result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does headlight restoration cost in Lethbridge?
Dobson Headlight Restoration in Lethbridge starts at $99 for Minimum Restoration (UV top coat, 1-year warranty) and $240+ for Premium + Ceramic (ceramic coating, 5-year warranty). Pricing depends on vehicle condition and is quoted upfront. Text 587-402-4794 with your make and model for a quick quote.
Why are some headlight restoration quotes so much cheaper?
Cheaper quotes typically reflect a 1–2 stage surface polish without wet sanding and without durable UV protection. Results fade in 3–6 months. The difference in price between a $50 and a $130 restoration often reflects the difference between a temporary and a lasting result.
Does the price include both headlights?
Yes — Dobson's pricing is per vehicle (both headlights). No per-unit pricing surprises. Fog lights are included in the Premium package or available as an add-on to Standard.
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes. Text a photo of your headlights to 587-402-4794 for a fast quote based on actual lens condition. No obligation to book.
Get a Quote or Book Your Appointment
Mobile service in Lethbridge and Southern Alberta
From $99 · Ceramic coating included · No results, no pay
Serving Lethbridge, Taber, Cardston, Raymond, Coaldale, Fort Macleod & all of Southern Alberta
Wondering if foggy headlights will fail your Alberta inspection? Read our inspection guide →