Alexei Volkov
Plastic is a common material used in automotive trim pieces due to its affordability, lightweight nature, and ease of moulding. However, plastic trim is susceptible to fading, cracking, and deterioration when exposed to sunlight, rain, and environmental contaminants. The good news is that preserving and restoring plastic automotive trim pieces is a relatively easy and profitable process that can enhance the appearance and value of a vehicle. This process typically involves cleaning the plastic surface, applying a plastic trim restorer or dye, and protecting the trim with a dressing or sealant to prevent future fading and damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic trim restoration | Quick, easy, and profitable |
| Plastic trim deterioration | Caused by harsh sunlight, rain, and environmental contaminants |
| Plastic trim restoration products | Trim Kote, Detail King Revival Bumper and Trim Dressing, Wipe Clean Surface Prep Solution, Solution Finish Trim Restorer, Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer, Turtle Wax Trim Restorer, Hybrid Solutions Pro Graphene Flex Wax, Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Spray Coating, Turtle Wax Inside and Out Protectant |
| Plastic trim restoration process | Clean the surface, apply restorer, protect from UV rays, cover surrounding areas, seal restoration |
| Plastic trim repair | Sanding, welding, epoxying, painting |
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What You'll Learn
Clean trim pieces with an alcohol-based solution
Before applying any restorer product, it is important to clean the plastic trim pieces with an alcohol-based solution. This will ensure that the restorer can properly absorb into the plastic. Detail King's Wipe Clean is a recommended product for this step.
First, use Safe Release Painter's Tape to cover areas around the plastic trim. This will prevent the restorer from getting on paint or glass. Next, wipe down the plastic trim with the alcohol-based solution using a microfiber cloth or towel. This will remove any dirt, old dressings, and contaminants. If the trim has been previously dressed, it is recommended to scrub with a degreaser and rinse before cleaning with the alcohol-based solution for better adhesion.
If there are any cleaners, oils, or silicones remaining on the plastic, these can be removed with isopropyl alcohol. Shake the bottle well and apply a small amount to a microfiber sponge or applicator pad. Spread the isopropyl alcohol evenly over the surface, allowing it to penetrate for 3-4 minutes. Then, use a clean microfiber towel to buff off any excess and wipe down any glass or paint.
Once the trim pieces are thoroughly cleaned and dried, you can move on to the next step of restoring the plastic trim.
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Apply a plastic restorer or dye
Before applying a plastic restorer or dye, it is important to ensure that the plastic surface is completely clean. Start by using an alcohol-based cleaning solution to wipe down the plastic trim, removing any dirt, old dressings, or contaminants. Detail King's Wipe Clean is a recommended product for this step. If the trim has been previously dressed, it is advisable to scrub it with a degreaser, rinse it, and then clean it with Wipe Clean for improved adhesion. Cover the areas surrounding the plastic trim with Safe Release Painter's Tape to prevent the restorer from accidentally getting on paint or glass surfaces.
Now, you can proceed to apply the plastic restorer or dye. One recommended product is Detail King's Trim Kote, a long-lasting and efficient dye that can be used on any unpainted, textured plastic or vinyl trim piece. It is important to wear disposable gloves to protect your hands during the application process. Apply the Trim Kote to a shop towel or applicator and then rub it evenly into the plastic, working in small sections of approximately 4"x4" to 6"x6". Ensure a uniform application and allow the dye to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Another option for a plastic restorer is Solution Finish Black Plastic Restorer, which is known for its ability to fix damaged plastic rather than just dressing it. Prior to application, use IPA 70-90% (Isopropyl Alcohol) to remove any cleaners, oils, or silicones from the plastic surface. Shake the bottle well and apply a small amount to an applicator pad or microfiber sponge. Spread a thin, even coat over the entire area, allowing the solution to penetrate for 3-4 minutes. Use a clean microfiber towel to buff off any excess and wipe off any residue from glass or painted surfaces. For optimal results, avoid washing the treated area for 4 to 6 hours after application.
After applying a plastic restorer or dye, it is crucial to protect the plastic trim from future fading. You can achieve this by applying a product like Detail King's Revival Trim Dressing, which provides UV protection and adds a subtle shine to the trim. This step seals in the restoration and helps prevent further deterioration caused by sunlight and harsh weather conditions.
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Protect trim with UV protectant
Plastic trim pieces are often the first vehicle exterior components to show signs of wear and tear. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions can cause the plastic to become brittle, discoloured, and faded, detracting from the overall appearance of the car.
To restore plastic trim pieces to their original condition, you can use a plastic trim restorer or dye, such as Detail King's Trim Kote or Solution Finish Trim Restorer. These products can effectively restore the colour and shine of the plastic trim, enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal.
However, to maintain this improved appearance and ensure long-lasting protection, it is crucial to safeguard the trim pieces from future deterioration. This is where UV protectants come into play.
UV protectants are essential for preserving the condition of plastic automotive trim pieces. These protectants create a barrier that shields the plastic from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation present in sunlight. Over time, exposure to UV rays can cause the plastic to become brittle, discoloured, and faded. By applying a UV protectant, you can significantly reduce the impact of UV radiation, thereby prolonging the lifespan of the trim pieces.
Detail King offers a range of products specifically designed for this purpose. One notable option is the Detail King Revival Bumper and Trim Dressing, a conditioning cream that not only revamps and glosses exterior plastic trim pieces but also provides robust protection against UV rays. This product is easy to apply and leaves a long-lasting shine, ensuring that your trim pieces maintain their enhanced appearance.
Another recommended product is Turtle Wax's Trim Restorer, a silicon-infused formula that not only restores the trim's appearance but also offers a protective coating against future UV damage. This product leaves a shiny gloss that safeguards the trim from the harmful effects of UV rays.
When applying these UV protectants, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Ensure that the trim pieces are clean and free from any dirt, old dressings, or contaminants before application. This will allow the protectant to properly absorb and adhere to the surface. Additionally, consider using dedicated microfiber cloths for application to avoid cross-contamination with other surfaces.
By incorporating UV protectants into your automotive care routine, you can effectively preserve the condition and appearance of plastic trim pieces, maintaining the value and aesthetic appeal of your vehicle.
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Repair cracks and breaks with epoxy or welding
Before attempting to repair cracks and breaks with epoxy or welding, it is important to examine the repair area. Cracks may extend further than they appear, and patching only a section of the crack will result in the crack growing again. If the plastic trim piece has snapped in two, ensure that the pieces fit together and that there are no missing bits. Position the pieces together correctly before applying any epoxy or welding.
Additionally, it is important to identify the type of plastic you are working with. Different plastics need different treatments, and some plastics require special treatment before you can paint or use epoxy on them. The type of preparation and repair method you need will depend on whether you plan to fuse the plastic trim with epoxy or weld it with a plastic welding tool.
If you choose to use epoxy to repair the crack or fuse broken pieces together, sand down the plastic to give the epoxy a better surface to adhere to. You can also consider drilling holes on either end of the crack to give the epoxy a better hold on the plastic after it dries. Epoxy typically comes in a two-part pack, one containing the polymer or prepolymer and the other containing the hardener or curing agent. Mix the two parts according to the directions on the packaging to activate the epoxy, and use the resulting mixture to fill in the gap in the trim. Make sure to follow the directions for mixing the epoxy carefully, as an incorrect mixture may result in the epoxy not holding. Some epoxies harden quickly, so work carefully but swiftly. For larger cracks, use mesh tape across the crack to create a backing for the epoxy, and apply the epoxy in layers rather than in one large glob.
The second repair method is plastic welding, which involves using a specialized plastic welder to melt the plastic back together. This method uses copious amounts of heat, delivered through the metal end of the plastic welder, to close the crack by forcing the plastic to fuse to itself. If the gap in the trim is very large, you may need a plastic filler rod that uses the same plastic as the original trim. If you do not have a matching plastic filler rod, you may need to cut a piece of plastic from a less conspicuous part of the trim and weld it into the gap.
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Sand and paint plastic trim
Sanding and painting plastic trim can be an easy and cost-effective way to enhance the appearance of your car. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve professional results:
Preparation:
Start by removing the plastic trim pieces from your vehicle if possible. This will make it easier to work on them and achieve an even coat of paint. Use a screwdriver to slowly remove the screws holding the trim in place, being careful not to damage any electrical components. If you are unable to remove the trim, cover the surrounding areas with masking paper or tape to protect them from paint.
Cleaning:
Before painting, it is essential to clean the plastic trim thoroughly. Use a scouring pad and soapy water to scrub the trim, removing any dirt, grease, or old dressings. For a deeper clean, you can use an alcohol-based cleaning solution or a degreaser to ensure the surface is free of any contaminants. Rinse the trim with clean water and dry it completely using a lint-free microfiber cloth.
Sanding:
Sanding is a crucial step to ensure the paint adheres properly to the plastic. Use sandpaper with a grit level between 150 and 220 to achieve a smooth finish. Start with a lower grit and work your way up, applying light pressure to remove any imperfections, bobbles, or raised marks on the plastic. Continue sanding until the 'shine' of the plastic is removed, and the surface is dull and consistent. After sanding, use a grease and wax remover to wipe down the entire surface, removing any residual sanding dust, grease, or oil.
Painting:
Choose a paint that is suitable for the type of plastic you are working with. Spray paint is a popular option for automotive plastic parts. Before painting, shake the can well and hold it about 6-7 inches away from the surface. Apply light and even coats, waiting about 10 minutes between applications. Avoid trying to cover the part with one coat as it may cause runs in the paint. Depending on the paint you use, allow the trim to dry completely for at least 24 hours in a warm and well-ventilated area before reinstalling it.
Protection:
Consider applying a plastic trim protectant or sealant after the paint has dried to prevent future fading and deterioration. These products provide UV protection and a subtle shine, ensuring the longevity of your freshly painted trim.
Remember to wear protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and a respirator or mask, during the sanding and painting process to ensure your safety.
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