Sofia Martinez
Plastic and rubber trim on cars can be susceptible to damage from the sun, heat, air, tar, and road film. This damage can manifest as stains, fading, or cracking. To clean exterior car trim, a mixture of car soap and water can be applied using a wash mitt, then rinsed and dried with a microfiber towel. For interior trim, large debris can be removed by hand or with a vacuum, and the trim can be dusted with a damp microfiber cloth. There are also various products available for cleaning and protecting plastic and rubber trim, such as sprays, waxes, and sealants.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to clean | 6-8 times a year |
| Cleaning products | Car soap, water, shampoo, all-purpose cleaner, isopropyl alcohol, body solvent, degreaser, trim detailing product, trim restorer |
| Application tools | Wash mitt, scrub sponge, soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth/towel, soft polypropylene brush, Premium Grade Microfiber Applicator |
| Protection products | Hybrid spray waxes, sealants, UV protection products, gloss polymer coating, protectants |
| Protection product application tools | Microfiber cloth/towel, applicator |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning exterior trim
Exterior trim on cars is usually made of plastic or rubber and is susceptible to damage from the sun, heat, air, tar, and road film. To clean exterior trim, start by applying a mixture of car soap and water using a wash mitt. Rinse with water and dry with a microfiber towel. If you have stubborn stains or old coatings, you may need to use a prep wash or an all-purpose cleaner. In this case, dilute 40 parts cleaner to 60 parts water and apply with a scrub sponge or a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to get the cleaner on the surrounding painted panels, as it can cause staining.
After cleaning, you may want to use a trim reconditioning product to restore the trim to its original colour and protect it from future damage. There are many products available, including sprays, waxes, and sealants, that are designed to enhance and protect exterior trim. When choosing a product, look for one that offers UV protection to shield your trim from the sun's harsh rays and prevent fading. You can also find products that add a glossy finish or a matte finish, depending on your preference.
Before using any new cleaning or detailing product, it is recommended to conduct a spot test in an out-of-sight area to ensure that it does not cause any unwanted results. Additionally, always read the instructions on the product label before use.
By regularly cleaning and maintaining your exterior trim, you can keep it looking fresh and in tip-top condition.
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Cleaning interior trim
To clean interior trim, first remove large debris by hand or use a vacuum to get rid of any loose dirt. Then, use a damp microfiber cloth to dust the plastic trim. Finish by applying a trim detailing product. It is recommended to conduct a spot test before using any new cleaning product. Apply the product on an out-of-sight area and wait to see if there are any adverse effects before proceeding.
Interior trim cleaning products are designed to lift dust, fingerprints, and light stains from nonporous surfaces inside your car. They are typically easy to apply, with a simple spray-and-wipe application. Some products also eliminate unpleasant odours and freshen the inside of your car for up to 30 days.
It is important to note that interior trim, such as plastic and rubber, is susceptible to degradation from UV damage caused by the sun. This can lead to discolouration and cracking over time. To prevent this, it is recommended to use UV protection products designed to shield your vehicle from the sun's harsh rays. These products can be applied directly to the trim or used in conjunction with a microfiber applicator.
Additionally, it is advised to clean your interior trim regularly, at least 6-8 times a year, to prevent any build-up of dirt and debris. Regular maintenance will help maintain the appearance and functionality of your interior trim.
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Removing stains
To remove stains from plastic or rubber trim, you can use a trim reconditioning product. These products restore faded bumpers and trims to a like-new condition. You can also use a mixture of car soap and water, applying it with a wash mitt, then rinsing and drying with a microfiber towel.
If you are dealing with tough stains, a prep wash or all-purpose cleaner may be required. A citrus-based all-purpose cleaner diluted with water can be applied with a scrub sponge or soft-bristled brush. Be aware that strong or under-diluted cleaners can stain painted panels surrounding the trim, so always test on a small area first.
For interior trim, a trim detailing product can be used after removing large debris and dusting with a damp microfiber cloth.
To remove wax stains, a trim clean wax and oil remover can be used. You can also use isopropyl alcohol or a body solvent to remove stains.
For plastic trim, a plastic trim restorer can be used to rejuvenate and protect the surface. A glossy polymer coating can prevent cracks and fading by repelling UV rays.
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Protecting against UV damage
The sun's UV rays can cause significant damage to plastic and rubber trim, leading to discolouration and degradation. This process, known as photo degradation, occurs when UV energy excites electrons in the plastic, creating free radicals that break down the polymer structure. As a result, the plastic dries out, cracks, and becomes discoloured. Therefore, it is essential to take measures to protect plastic and rubber trim from UV damage.
One effective way to protect against UV damage is to use a protectant or dressing on the trim. These products can help restore the appearance of faded and discoloured plastic and rubber and provide a barrier against UV rays. It is recommended to use a protectant or dressing on new vehicles to maintain the trim's colour and quality. There are various products available on the market, such as SHINE ARMOR Plastic Restorer, CarPro Dlux, 303 Aerospace Protectant, and Gyeon Preserve, which offer UV protection and help prevent oxidation, ageing, and cracking.
When applying a protectant, it is essential to follow the instructions on the product label. In general, it is recommended to use a clean foam applicator pad to apply the product to the trim, ensuring it reaches the pores and texture of the surface. Allow the protectant to set and dry for a few minutes, then wipe away any excess with a clean microfiber towel. This process will help seal the trim, providing added protection from debris, wax, and other chemicals that can cause damage.
In addition to using protectants, there are other ways to minimise UV damage to plastic and rubber trim. One simple method is to park your vehicle in a garage or shaded area when possible. By reducing direct exposure to sunlight, you can significantly reduce the risk of UV damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the trim are also important. Built-up dirt, debris, and wax can accelerate degradation, so keeping the trim clean and applying protectants or dressings can help extend its life.
For rubber seals, it is recommended to use products specifically designed for this purpose, such as Nextzett's Gummi Pflege Rubber Care Stick. Additionally, some high-end car manufacturers suggest using talcum powder on door and hood seals for lubrication, which can help extend their lifespan. By combining the use of protectants with proper cleaning, maintenance, and shade when possible, you can effectively protect plastic and rubber trim from UV damage and maintain the appearance and functionality of your vehicle.
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Using protectants
To maintain the colour and quality of plastic and rubber trim, it is recommended to use a protectant. This will also restore the look of faded and discoloured plastic and rubber, and help protect them from damaging UV rays.
There are various protectant products available, including VRP Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Shine and Protectant, 303 Aerospace Protectant, TUF SHINE Black Restore Kit, and Black WOW. These products can be applied to vinyl, rubber, plastic, and more. They are designed to shield vehicles from the sun's harsh rays and prevent fading.
When using a protectant, it is important to follow the instructions on the label. Generally, you should start by shaking the bottle of protectant to ensure the formula is evenly mixed. Then, apply a small amount of the protectant to a microfiber applicator or towel and gently work it into the trim using straight, linear motions. This will help to avoid swirl marks and ensure a uniform finish.
For faded plastic parts, you can use a small brush, like a toothbrush, soaked in the protectant to clean them. To avoid overspray, spray the protectant on a rag before applying, or consider using a gel or wipes. It is also recommended to let the protectant penetrate the material before wiping it clear.
By using the right protectant products and following the proper application techniques, you can effectively maintain and protect the plastic and rubber trim, keeping it looking like new.
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