Alexei Volkov
Black plastic trim on cars can fade and turn a dull grey colour due to prolonged exposure to sunlight, harsh weather, and road debris. There are several methods to restore black plastic trim, ranging from DIY solutions to professional-grade treatments. It is important to note that while DIY methods may provide temporary results, they may have long-term negative effects on the car. Professional-grade solutions, such as high-quality trim restorers, typically offer more effective and lasting results. To maintain the results of any restoration method, regular cleaning and proper maintenance techniques are essential.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Permanent restoration | Possible |
| Temporary restoration | Possible with products like Mothers Back to Black, Aerospace 303, CeraKote, Armor All, olive oil, WD-40, peanut butter |
| Preventative measures | Apply UV protectant or plastic sealant, park in a shaded area, avoid harsh chemicals and automatic car washes |
| Post-restoration maintenance | Regular cleaning, avoid over-application of products |
| Safety precautions | Wear protective gear, work in a well-ventilated area, read product labels |
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What You'll Learn
- Clean the trim with a specialist cleaner, such as Chemical Guys' Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner
- Dry the trim with a handheld dryer, like the ProBlow
- Apply a UV protectant or plastic sealant to prevent sun damage
- Use a high-quality trim restorer, such as Armor All's plastic and vinyl repair product
- Avoid using a heat gun, as this will accelerate deterioration
Clean the trim with a specialist cleaner, such as Chemical Guys' Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner
To blacken plastic car trim, cleaning the trim with a specialist cleaner is essential. Chemical Guys Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner is a highly effective and popular choice for this purpose. This colourless, odourless, and fragrance-free cleaner is safe for sensitive surfaces and can be used on various parts of your car, including the trim, wheels, tires, vinyl, rubber, plastic, and carpets.
The Chemical Guys Nonsense Cleaner is a super-concentrated formula that can be diluted according to your specific needs, with a dilution ratio of approximately 20:1. It is designed to effortlessly lift dirt, grease, oil, and stains from almost any type of surface, including hard plastics, without leaving any residue. Before applying the cleaner, it is recommended to test fabric or fibre for colourfastness in an inconspicuous area.
To use the Chemical Guys Nonsense Cleaner, start by spraying it onto the surface of the trim. Allow it to penetrate for 10 to 60 seconds, and then scrub the surface using an Exterior Detailing Brush in circular, back-and-forth, and up-and-down motions. This will help remove any embedded dirt, grime, and contaminants from textured surfaces.
After scrubbing, wipe off the Nonsense residue using a clean microfiber towel. At this point, you can use the ProBlow Professional Handheld Dryer to ensure the surface is completely dry. By following these steps, you can effectively clean and prepare the plastic car trim for further restoration and blackening treatments.
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Dry the trim with a handheld dryer, like the ProBlow
Drying your car after cleaning is essential to maintaining its exterior. Using a handheld dryer like the ProBlow ensures that your car is dried quickly and efficiently, without any streaks or water spots. The ProBlow is a powerful tool with a 1000-watt motor that blasts away water, leaving a touchless, dry surface. Its extra-long cord gives you the flexibility to move around freely without worrying about finding an outlet.
When using the ProBlow, simply hold it about 12 inches away from the surface you want to dry and turn it on. The dryer will blow away water, dust, and dirt from the surface, crevices, and tight spots. This is especially useful for drying hard-to-reach areas like mirrors, trim, bumpers, and door jambs, where water can drip and cause streaks.
The ProBlow is an excellent tool for car detailing, helping you achieve a professional finish. It is also useful for blowing out water, cleaners, or dressings from the engine bay. By using the ProBlow, you can ensure that your car is thoroughly dried, preventing any water spots or streaks that may occur when drying manually with towels.
Additionally, the ProBlow is a safer alternative to using a heat gun for drying your car. While a heat gun can temporarily restore faded plastic trim, it will accelerate the deterioration of the trim, making it brittle over time. The ProBlow, on the other hand, provides a gentle yet effective drying solution that won't damage your car's surfaces.
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Apply a UV protectant or plastic sealant to prevent sun damage
While restoring the trim on your car, it is important to consider how to protect it from future sun damage. There are a variety of products available to protect your car's trim from UV damage, including sprays, waxes, and sealants.
One option is to use a UV protectant spray. Some popular options include 303 Aerospace Protectant, Optimum Opti-Seal, and Gyeon Preserve. These products can be applied directly to the trim and offer varying levels of UV protection. For example, 303 Aerospace Protectant has been praised for its UV protection capabilities, while Gyeon Preserve is noted for its durability, requiring fewer applications per year.
Another option is to use a spray wax or sealant. These products can be applied during a regular car wash and can help to protect the trim from sun damage. Popular options include Optimum Car Wax, Turtle Wax Ice with UV Protectant, and Griots, Optimum, or Megs spray wax/sealant. It is recommended to reapply these products every two to six months, depending on weather conditions.
Additionally, some users have suggested using a combination of products for maximum protection. For example, pairing a ceramic spray with wet wax as a drying aid can help to preserve the plastics and paint of your car. Others recommend using a waterless wash and wax solution, which has been effective in protecting the paint of cars parked outside for extended periods.
While these products can help, it is important to note that garaging your car is the most effective way to protect it from UV damage.
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Use a high-quality trim restorer, such as Armor All's plastic and vinyl repair product
Armor All is a well-known brand in car care products, and its Outlast Trim & Plastic Restorer is a great option for rejuvenating black plastic car trim. This product is designed to restore and protect exterior plastic, rubber, and vinyl surfaces on your car. It can effectively treat discolouration and fading caused by weather conditions, wear, and sun exposure.
To use Armor All's plastic and vinyl repair product, start by shaking the bottle. You can apply it directly to the surface or use a damp microfiber towel. Spread the product evenly, ensuring a light coat. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes to allow it to work its magic. Finally, use a damp terry cloth or microfiber towel to wipe away any excess solution. For extremely porous or faded surfaces, you may need to apply multiple coats.
It is important to note that this product is safe for most car surfaces, but it is always a good idea to check your owner's manual to confirm the type of trim on your car and any specific care instructions. Additionally, Armor All products may leave a greasy residue, so be sure to wipe off any excess thoroughly.
According to customer reviews, the Armor All Trim & Plastic Restorer is effective and easy to apply. It restores the colour and shine of plastic trim, making it look new again. Some users have noted that the results may not last long, especially after a car wash or heavy rain, but overall, it is a cost-effective and reliable solution for maintaining the appearance of your car's trim.
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Avoid using a heat gun, as this will accelerate deterioration
While some people have suggested using a heat gun to restore black plastic car trim, this method is not recommended. Although it may work as a quick fix, it will not last and will cause the trim to deteriorate faster and become brittle.
The heat gun method involves using heat to draw the remaining natural oils in the plastic to the surface, restoring its colour. However, this process will only work a few times, as the natural oils will eventually deplete. In addition, the heat can cause the plastic to melt slightly, leading to warping and other damage.
There are much better alternatives to using a heat gun, including various rejuvenation products that can restore the colour of faded plastic trim. For example, products such as Armor All, Mothers Back to Black, Aerospace 303, and CeraKote have been recommended by car owners for restoring black plastic trim. These products may be more effective and longer-lasting solutions than the heat gun method.
It's important to note that regular maintenance and care are crucial for maintaining the trim's aesthetic and functional lifespan. This includes regular cleaning, using water-based dressings, and applying UV protectants or plastic sealants to prevent sun damage. Taking preventive measures will ensure that your trim stays black for as long as possible.
Overall, while the heat gun method may be tempting as a quick and budget-friendly fix, it is not worth the long-term damage it can cause to your car's trim. It is recommended to use dedicated rejuvenation products and follow proper maintenance procedures instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Using products like olive oil, WD-40, or peanut butter can temporarily darken plastic trim and add shine. However, these solutions are short-lived as they wash off easily with rain or car washes.
Using a high-quality trim restorer is the most effective and lasting solution. Some recommended products include Mothers Back to Black, Aerospace 303, and CeraKote. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential for maintaining results and extending the lifespan of the restored trim.
Yes, it is important to wear protective gear, such as gloves, to protect your hands from chemicals. It is also recommended to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling chemical fumes. Always read the product labels thoroughly for safety instructions.
One of the most frequent errors is applying too much product, which can lead to a greasy or sticky finish that fails to dry correctly and attracts dust and dirt. It is also important to avoid harsh chemicals and automatic car washes that can strip protective coatings and accelerate fading.
Apply a UV protectant or plastic sealant to prevent sun damage and shield your car from direct sunlight by using a car cover or parking in a shaded area. Regularly clean and maintain the trim using a water-based dressing to maintain its aesthetic and functional lifespan.
