Omar Khalid
Plastic trim can be restored and protected from fading, cracking, and drying out. The fading of plastic trim is caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun, which dries out the plastic over time. To prevent this, a protectant can be applied to the plastic trim. There are various products available for this purpose, including 303 Aerospace Protectant, Solution Finish, CeraTrim by The Last Coat, and GYEON Quartz Trim Protector and Restorer. In addition, using a heat gun or hair dryer can restore faded plastic trim, although this method may not be long-lasting.
How to keep plastic trim from fading
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of fading | Exposure to UV rays |
| Solution category | Dressing, restoration, coating/protection |
| Dressing example | 303 Aerospace Protectant |
| Restoration method | Add oils back into the plastic |
| Restoration product example | Mothers Back to Black Trim & Plastic Restorer |
| Coating/protection example | Cerakote |
| Other methods | Heat gun, hair dryer, wax |
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What You'll Learn
Use a trim protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant
303 Aerospace Protectant is a highly effective product for preventing plastic trim from fading. It is a water-based formula that is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection. It is designed to restore and protect plastic trim, bringing it back to its original, like-new appearance.
The protectant is applied by spraying it directly onto the plastic trim and then wiping it down with a microfiber cloth. It is recommended to use only one thin coating, which will leave a beautiful matte finish. The product is non-greasy and will not leave any residue, making it a great choice for those seeking a natural look.
In addition to its cosmetic benefits, 303 Aerospace Protectant also offers superior UV protection, which is essential for preventing fading and cracking caused by sun exposure. It is suitable for both interior and exterior plastic surfaces, including dashboards, leather, and vinyl. The protectant also works on other materials such as tires, rubber, and even outdoor furniture.
For maximum UV protection, it is recommended to reapply the 303 Aerospace Protectant every 3 to 5 weeks. This regular maintenance will ensure that your plastic trim maintains its like-new appearance, texture, and color.
The product has received numerous positive reviews from users who have noticed a significant improvement in the appearance and longevity of their plastic trim. Many appreciate its ease of use and the fact that it does not leave a greasy or sticky residue. Overall, 303 Aerospace Protectant is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and effective solution to prevent plastic trim from fading.
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Apply a ceramic coating
Applying a ceramic coating to plastic trim is a great way to restore faded plastic trim pieces and protect them from future damage. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply a ceramic coating to plastic trim:
Preparation:
Firstly, it is crucial to prepare the plastic trim surface by thoroughly cleaning it. Start by washing the trim with a high-quality automotive prep shampoo to remove any dirt, grime, or contaminants. After shampooing, wipe down the trim with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to ensure the surface is completely clean and free of any remaining residues. This preparation process is essential for the ceramic coating to adhere properly to the plastic trim.
Applying the Ceramic Coating:
Once the trim is clean and dry, you can begin applying the ceramic coating. Put 2-3 drops of the ceramic coating product, such as Glidecoat Trim or Gyeon Trim Ceramic, onto an application sponge or a clean microfiber cloth. Using a back-and-forth motion, gently spread the coating evenly across the plastic trim surface. Be careful to avoid getting the coating on any painted surfaces, as it may smudge.
Curing and Buffing:
After applying the ceramic coating, allow it to cure for 1-5 minutes. During this time, you will notice a haze forming on the plastic trim. This is an indication that the coating is starting to cure. Once the haze appears, use a microfiber buffing towel to gently wipe away the haze, revealing a smooth and protected finish.
Additional Coats:
For older or heavily faded plastic trim, it is recommended to apply multiple coats of the ceramic coating. Wait for the previous coat to cure and haze before applying the next coat. Typically, 2-3 coats are sufficient to fully restore the luster and colour of the plastic trim.
Maintenance:
After applying the final coat, avoid exposing the coated surface to moisture for at least 12 hours, and wait at least 48 hours before washing the vehicle. To maintain the coating, store the ceramic coating product in a cool, dry place, and keep the container tightly sealed when not in use. Additionally, always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling the product, and avoid smoking or exposing it to heat or open flames.
By following these steps, you can effectively apply a ceramic coating to your plastic trim, restoring its appearance and protecting it from fading, oxidation, and UV damage.
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Try a heat gun treatment
While some people recommend using a heat gun to restore faded plastic trim, others advise against it. The process involves heating the plastic to its glass-transition temperature, causing the crystal structure of the molecules to break and allowing the molecules to move around again. This can restore the pigment to the surface of the plastic.
There are several ways to perform a heat gun treatment. One method involves holding the heat gun about three inches away from the plastic on the high heat setting. This technique has been reported to last up to a year for interior vehicle parts. After treating the parts with heat, some people also treat them with Mothers Back to Black Trim & Plastic Restorer polish.
Another method involves using a blow torch to heat the plastic and bring the colour back. However, the colour may fade back within minutes. In this case, the heat-treated plastic was then treated with car wax, which kept the colour from fading.
It is important to note that using a heat gun on plastic trim can be risky. Some people report that it only lasts a few weeks and can completely ruin the trim. Therefore, it is recommended to experiment with a scrap piece of automotive plastic before attempting to treat the actual trim.
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Wash and clean the trim
To prevent plastic trim from fading, it is important to wash and clean the trim regularly. Here are some detailed steps and tips to help you with the process:
Firstly, start by washing your car as you normally would. This will help remove any dirt, dust, or grime that has built up on the trim. Use a mild car shampoo or soap and avoid using abrasive cleaning materials that could scratch the plastic.
After rinsing the car, pay close attention to the trim. Use a medium-bristle brush and a plastic-safe cleaner, such as APC (all-purpose cleaner) or a degreaser, to thoroughly clean the trim. Go over all the pieces you want to protect, ensuring that you reach into any crevices or intricate areas. This step will remove any previous dressing or products applied to the trim, creating a clean base for further treatment.
Once you have scrubbed the trim with the brush and cleaner, rinse the pieces again to remove any residual cleaning solution. Then, dry the trim thoroughly. You can use a soft microfiber cloth or a gentle air blower to speed up the drying process.
Finally, to ensure that the trim is completely free of any residue, wipe down the pieces with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or paint prep. This step will remove any leftover oils or cleaning agents, ensuring a clean surface for the application of protectants or restoration products.
By following these steps, you will have a properly washed and cleaned trim that is ready for further treatment to prevent fading. Remember to choose products that are suitable for plastic and always follow the instructions carefully.
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Park your car in the shade
The sun is the worst enemy of plastic trim on a car. The harsh effects of the sun cause exterior plastics and trim to quickly lose their lustre, especially when exposed to the elements 24/7. The main ingredient in plastic is a derivative of crude oil, so it's no surprise that all plastics contain lots of oil. The fading or chalking that you see is from the plastic drying out over time. Without getting too scientific, when UV rays are absorbed by plastic, the UV energy excites photos that can create free radicals and degradation occurs from the free radicals causing breaks in the polymer structure.
To prevent this, it is advisable to park your car in the shade. This could be a garage or under a tree. If you are unable to find a shady spot, you could consider using a car cover to protect your car from the sun.
Parking your car in the shade will help to reduce the amount of UV rays that reach your car's plastic trim, thereby reducing the chances of fading and cracking. It is important to note that parking in the shade will not completely prevent fading, but it will help to slow down the process.
Additionally, you can also apply a trim protectant to your car's plastic trim to provide extra protection from the sun. These products can be easily applied and will help to keep your trim looking new for longer.
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Frequently asked questions
The sun is the main culprit behind plastic trim fading, so prevention is key. Use a trim protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant, CeraTrim by The Last Coat, GYEON Quartz Trim Protector and Restorer, or Gtechniq C4. Apply these products often as part of a monthly wash/dry/detail routine.
You can restore the plastic trim by adding oils back in. First, clean the trim to remove any previous dressing and ensure proper bonding of any products. Then, use a restoration product to restore the oil and pigment missing from the plastic. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to melt the plastic and restore its colour, but this is a temporary solution that may only last a month.
Yes, you can use a simple, easy-to-apply protection product like a wax or ceramic coating. Meguiar's Gold Paste Wax, Solution Finish, and Cerakote are all recommended products.
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