Ethan Clarke
Refurbishing the plastic interior of a car can be a great way to make it look new again, especially if it has been exposed to harsh weather conditions or other environmental factors that cause cracking, fading, and discolouration. While some temporary solutions can improve the appearance of faded plastic parts, a permanent solution involves refinishing the parts with paint designed for plastic and vinyl. For example, ColorBond LVP is a paint that can bond with leather, vinyl, and plastic, remaining flexible to adhere to the surface as it expands and contracts. Before applying paint or other products, it is important to thoroughly clean the plastic surface to avoid sealing in dirt and grime.
How to professionally refurbish plastic auto interior
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why refurbish plastic auto interiors? | Plastic auto interiors fade, crack, and become discoloured over time, especially when exposed to sunlight and extreme temperatures. |
| Temporary solutions | Plastic and vinyl cleaners and dressings can improve the appearance of faded plastic parts, but they are not a permanent solution. |
| Permanent solutions | Refinishing parts with paint designed for plastic and vinyl, such as ColorBond LVP, can provide a permanent solution by bonding with the surface and remaining flexible to prevent cracking and peeling. |
| Preparation | Before painting, clean the plastic surfaces thoroughly and apply a product like ColorBond Adhesion Promoter to improve paint adhesion. |
| Application | Apply several light coats of paint, allowing for drying time between coats. |
| Other products | Other products like Turtle Wax Trim Restorer, SEM products, and magic erasers can also be used to restore plastic auto interiors, but results may vary. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning plastic surfaces
To clean plastic surfaces in your car, you should first remove any personal belongings, rubbish, or debris. Then, take out the floor mats and give them a good shake. Next, use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to prevent scratching the interior plastic.
After vacuuming, use a damp microfibre cloth to wipe down heavily soiled areas, such as door sills and the footwell. If you need to wash the surfaces, be cautious around car electronics and avoid getting them wet. Dry these areas thoroughly with a drying towel.
For stubborn marks and stains, use an all-purpose cleaner designed for multiple surfaces. Avoid spraying the product directly onto the surface and instead, spray it sparingly onto a clean microfibre cloth. You can also use a plastic restorer product, such as Turtle Wax Trim Restorer, to restore faded plastic and protect it from further damage. However, always clean the plastic surface thoroughly before applying any restorer or protectant to avoid sealing in dirt and grime.
To add shine to your plastic surfaces, you can use a plastic polish or an oil such as olive oil or boiled linseed oil. Apply the product with a soft cloth and then use a clean, soft cloth to wipe away any excess.
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Choosing the right products
Firstly, it's important to assess the type of plastic in your car. Different types of plastics may require specific treatments, so understanding the material you are working with is crucial. This knowledge will help you choose compatible products that will effectively adhere to and protect the plastic surface.
When it comes to restoring faded or discoloured plastic, look for products specifically designed for this purpose. For example, Torque Detail's Plastic Restore is a product that can help bring back the original colour of faded plastic and protect it from UV rays. Similarly, Turtle Wax Trim Restorer is infused with UV inhibitors to protect against sun exposure and prevent cracking and fading. These products can enhance the appearance of your car's trim and prevent future deterioration.
If you're dealing with scuff marks or scratches on the plastic surface, you may consider using a product like Magic Eraser or a similar fine abrasive pad to lessen the appearance of scratches. However, keep in mind that these products can potentially damage the plastic surface and may not be suitable for deeper scratches. Alternatively, you can try using a heat gun on the affected area, but this method may be too intense for minor scuffs.
When refurbishing plastic surfaces, it's crucial to select the right type of paint. Opt for paints specifically formulated for plastic and vinyl surfaces, such as ColorBond LVP. These paints are designed to bond well with plastic, vinyl, and leather, ensuring a flexible and durable finish that won't crack or peel. Always prepare the plastic surface properly before painting, using recommended cleaners and adhesion promoters for the best results.
Lastly, for a comprehensive refurbishment, consider using products from a trusted brand that caters to a wide range of surfaces and materials in your car's interior. For example, SEM Products offers a variety of solutions for repairing and refurbishing plastic, vinyl, velour, leather, and carpet. Their products are widely used by professional shops and are easily accessible through various sources.
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Painting plastic
To achieve a professional finish, it is important to take your time and follow a few key steps. Firstly, ensure that the plastic surface is thoroughly cleaned before painting. Use a product like ColorBond Prep Cleaner or a simple soap and water solution to remove any dirt, grime, or other abrasive contaminants. This step is crucial as it will prevent scratches and ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface.
Next, you may want to apply an adhesion promoter to further enhance the paint's adhesion and flexibility. This step is especially important if you are painting a surface that is prone to flexing, expanding, or contracting, as it will help prevent the paint from cracking or peeling.
When choosing a paint, opt for one that is specifically designed for use on plastic and vinyl surfaces, such as ColorBond LVP or SEM paint products. These paints are formulated to bond well with plastic and vinyl, resulting in a flexible and durable finish. They are also available in a range of colours, allowing you to match the original colour or choose a new one.
Apply the paint carefully and evenly to the surface, following the manufacturer's instructions. It is important not to rush this step, as a hasty job may result in an uneven finish. Allow the paint to dry completely before reassembling any parts or using the vehicle.
Finally, consider using a protectant or trim restorer to add an extra layer of protection against UV rays, extreme temperatures, and other environmental factors. This will help maintain the colour and condition of the painted surface, ensuring that your car's interior looks new for longer.
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Repairing scratches
Scratches on plastic car interiors can be difficult to repair, especially if the plastic panels are chipped or cracked. Chipping often occurs in older cars with worn-out plastic panelling. When plastic panels start to chip, it is recommended to preserve the breakaway pieces as it can be difficult to find similar-looking bits of plastic to replace the broken-off chips.
To repair scratches on plastic car interiors, you can use a heat gun, fine sandpaper, and an interior car cleaner. First, clean the plastic surface with an interior car cleaner and a microfiber towel, rubbing in circular motions to remove dirt and grime. Then, wipe off the dirt and excess cleaning solution with another microfiber towel. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply heat to the scratched area using a heat gun. Keep the heat gun moving up and down at a constant rate to ensure even heat exposure, and be careful not to heat the surface for too long, as it can melt or become permanently damaged.
After applying heat, spray Plastic Restore™ liberally onto the surface and let it sit for a few minutes. You can apply a second coat for better results. Finally, use a clean microfiber towel to wipe off any excess fluid. Alternatively, you can use a mild abrasive like toothpaste or baking soda to remove scratches.
If you are dealing with deep scratches, it is easier to remove the plastic panel from the car to get better access to the different sides and surfaces. If you cannot remove the panel, use automotive masking tape to cover and protect the surrounding materials, such as wood trim, leather, or vinyl. Use a razor to cut off any protruding bits of plastic from the scratched area, then sand down the scratches with sandpaper. After sanding, clean the surface with an interior car cleaner and a microfiber towel, and then wipe off the dirt and debris with a fresh microfiber towel.
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Protecting against UV damage
Over time, exposure to UV rays can cause the plastic in car interiors to fade, crack, and discolour. This can reduce the resale value of the vehicle. To protect against this type of damage, there are a few steps you can take:
Firstly, park your car in the shade or use a car cover whenever possible. This will help to keep the interior cool and reduce the amount of UV light that reaches the plastic surfaces. If you cannot find a shady spot, try using sun shields or window shades to reflect UV rays away from the interior.
Secondly, apply a trim restorer product to the plastic surfaces. These products are designed to protect against UV damage and can bring back the original colour and elasticity of faded plastic. They also help to prevent cracking and further discolouration. Look for products infused with UV inhibitors, such as Turtle Wax Trim Restorer, 303 Aerospace Protectant Spray, or Torque Detail's Plastic Restore. Before applying any product, always clean the surface thoroughly to avoid sealing in dirt and grime.
Thirdly, consider using a protectant product specifically designed for car interiors. These products can provide a protective layer against UV rays while also repelling dirt, dust, and stains. For example, 303 Automotive Protectant can be used on a variety of materials, including vinyl, rubber, plastic, and finished leather. Simply spray the product onto a clean, dry surface and wipe it down with a microfiber towel. Reapply every four weeks for optimum UV protection.
Additionally, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can refinish the plastic surfaces with a paint designed for plastic and vinyl. This will not only improve the appearance but also provide a protective layer against UV damage.
By following these steps, you can effectively protect the plastic auto interior from UV damage, maintaining the aesthetic appeal and durability of your vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to clean the car's interior thoroughly before applying any refurbishing products. Vacuum and shampoo the upholstery and carpet, and clean all surfaces with household cleaners. Let everything dry completely.
There are several products available to restore plastic auto interiors. Some popular options include ColorBond LVP, SEM, Turtle Wax Trim Restorer, Torque Detail's Plastic Restore, and 303 Aerospace Protectant Spray.
Always clean the plastic surfaces and remove any dirt, stains, and abrasive contaminants before applying a plastic restorer. You can apply the product using a microfiber towel, sponge, or nylon bristle brush. Let the product dry completely before using the car.
You can try using a magic eraser, but be cautious as it may leave marks and smoothen the plastic texture. Other options include using a heat gun or a product like AG Vinyl & Rubber Care.
