Omar Khalid
Plastic car trim is susceptible to fading, discolouration, and cracking due to exposure to sunlight, harsh weather, and other environmental contaminants. This can make a vehicle look old and dated. Restoring plastic car trim can be done through various methods, ranging from using heat guns to draw out oils in the plastic to applying restorers, coatings, dyes, and paints. These methods aim to restore the original colour and finish of the plastic trim, enhancing the overall appearance of the vehicle. Proper maintenance and protection are crucial to preserving the restored trim and preventing future damage.
How to Refinish Plastic Car Trim
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for refinishing | Plastic car trim can fade, crack, or deteriorate due to sun exposure, harsh weather, and other contaminants. |
| Preparation | Wash the car, especially the trim area, to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants. Use a microfiber towel for cleaning and drying. |
| Protective gear | Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid exposure to chemical fumes. |
| Products | Plastic trim restorers, coatings, or paints are available. Choose a product suitable for the level of fading, such as Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, Brush-on Trim Coating Gel, or Spray-on Trim Paint. |
| Application | Follow product instructions. Some products may require light sanding, adhesion promoters, or multiple coats. Ensure the surrounding area is masked to avoid overspray. |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to extend the lifespan of the refinished trim. Use water-based dressings or UV protectants to maintain the appearance. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning and protecting plastic trim
The first step in restoring your car's plastic trim is to clean it thoroughly. Over time, plastic trim can become covered in dirt, grime, and old dressing. You can use a product like Trim Clean Wax and Oil Remover to eliminate grease, oils, and remnants of wax or polish. Spray the cleaner directly onto the trim and wipe it down with a microfiber towel, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas. Work in sections to ensure the product doesn't dry before you wipe it off. Once the trim is clean, use a fresh towel to buff it, leaving it ready for the next step.
If your trim has only faded slightly, you can restore its colour using a product like Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer. Simply apply a small amount of the liquid to a microfiber towel and spread it evenly over the trim's surface. This will restore the trim's deep black colour and protect it from future oxidation and fading.
If your trim is badly faded, you may need to use a different method. One option is to heat the plastic with a heat gun, which will draw out the oils within the material. However, this method can warp the plastic if you're not careful, so it's important to start with a clean surface and heat one area at a time. After heating, you can treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product to make it darker and protect it from the elements.
Another option for badly faded trim is to paint over it. This method can be time-consuming and expensive, as you need to find the right colour match and remove all the trim parts before painting. You will also need to ensure the trim is perfectly clean and decontaminated before painting.
Finally, you can use a product like VRP Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic Shine, and Protectant to enhance the appearance of your trim and protect it from UV rays and environmental damage. Apply the product with a microfiber applicator, working it into the trim using straight, linear motions. Finish by buffing the surface lightly with a microfiber towel to lock in the shine.
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Using heat and oils
Plastic car trim can be restored by using heat and oils. Over time, exposure to UV rays, heat, and road salts can cause plastic trim to lose its colour and sheen. This is because plastic contains lots of oils that are vulnerable to heat and UV rays.
To restore the trim, first clean the plastic trim with soapy water to remove surface grime, dust, and dirt. Rinse well with clean water and wipe dry with a microfiber towel.
Then, apply heat to the plastic trim to draw out the oils within the material. This can be done with a heat gun. Keep the heat gun at least four to six inches from the surface of the trim to prevent burning or melting. Start with a clean or freshly-washed surface to avoid burning contaminants into the plastic, and heat one area at a time to prevent damage. The heat gun method is not a permanent fix, as the natural oils will eventually deplete again.
After heating, treat the surface with oils such as olive oil, WD-40, boiled linseed oil, or a trim restoration product to make the surface darker and add protection. To apply, put a coin-sized amount of oil on a dry microfiber towel and gently rub the oiled towel on the faded plastic using small, circular motions. Allow the plastic trim to absorb the oil by letting it soak for five to ten minutes. Then, grab a separate dry towel and buff the surface lightly using rapid circular motions.
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Painting over plastic trim
To paint over plastic trim, you will need to remove the plastic trim from your car if possible. This will make it easier to get an even coat of paint. Use a screwdriver to slowly remove the screws holding the trim in place. Make sure there are no electrical components attached to the trim when you take it off. Once removed, clean the trim with soapy water and a scouring pad to remove any dirt or grease. You can also use a commercial degreaser for this step.
Next, use sandpaper to smoothen the surface of the trim and remove any 'shine' from the plastic. This will ensure that the paint adheres better to the surface. Once the sanding is complete, clean the trim again with warm water to remove any dirt or debris left by the sandpaper. Then, apply a coat of adhesion promoter to the trim. This will help the paint stick to the plastic surface. If you are painting a hard plastic such as ABS or PVC, spray the paint while the adhesion promoter is still wet. If you are painting a flexible plastic such as TPO or PP, wait for the adhesion promoter to dry completely before applying the paint.
Finally, apply the paint to the trim using spray paint made for plastic. Hold the can of spray paint about 6 inches away from the trim and move back and forth to apply a thin and even coat. Allow the first coat to dry for about 10 minutes before applying a second coat in the opposite direction of the first coat. If necessary, apply a third coat to ensure that the plastic is not visible underneath. Once the paint is dry, you can reattach the trim to your car.
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Applying trim restorers and coatings
To restore your car's plastic trim, you can use a plastic restorer or trim coating. These products are absorbed by the plastic, breaking down the oxidation that causes fading and a grey appearance. They nourish and protect the plastic, providing an even finish.
Before applying any product, it is important to clean the plastic trim thoroughly. Use a dedicated cleaner and a brush to scrub the trim, especially if it is neglected and faded. A medium-bristle brush can help to agitate the trim surface and remove any dirt, grime, or contaminants. You can also use a product like Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner to scrub the trim with an exterior detailing brush, followed by a clean microfiber towel to wipe away any residue.
Once the trim is clean and dry, you can apply the plastic restorer or trim coating. For liquid restorers, such as Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, use a clean microfiber towel to apply a small amount of the product to the faded trim, spreading it evenly across the surface. Be careful to avoid getting the restorer on painted surfaces, as it may stain.
For gel coatings, such as Brush on Trim Coating Gel or Restore Black, you can use the included foam applicator to saturate and apply the product to the trim.
If using a trim paint, such as Trim Black Paint, it is recommended to first apply an adhesion promoter to ensure better adhesion of the paint to the plastic surface. Sand Free Adhesion Promoter can be sprayed onto hard plastic surfaces, and Plastic Adhesion Promoter should be used on flexible plastic. Allow the adhesion promoter to dry completely before applying the trim paint.
After applying the restorer, coating, or paint, it is important to allow the product to dry thoroughly. Some products, such as Solution Finish Trim Restorer, may require a second application or the use of a plastic sealer, such as Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer, to enhance and extend the treatment's life.
Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and applying water-based dressings, can help maintain the results and extend the lifespan of the restored trim.
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Post-restoration maintenance
Now that you've put in the effort to refinish your car's plastic trim, you'll want to maintain its sleek new look. Here are some detailed instructions to help you keep your car trim looking its best:
Wash your car regularly:
Use a pH-balanced car wash soap and a quality car wash mitt to clean your car, including the plastic trim. Washing your car regularly will help prevent dirt and grime buildup, which can contribute to trim fading and deterioration.
Reapply trim restorer or dressing:
Depending on the product you've used to refinish your trim, you may need to reapply it periodically. Some products, like plastic restorers, may only need to be reapplied every few months or after a certain number of car washes. Others, like dressings, may need to be applied after each car wash. Check the instructions for the product you've used and mark your calendar to ensure you're reapplying it as needed.
Protect against UV rays:
Sun exposure is one of the main causes of trim fading and deterioration. If your car is often parked in direct sunlight, consider using a car cover or parking in a shaded area to limit UV exposure. You can also look for trim restorers or dressings that offer UV protection, such as Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer, to help shield your trim from harmful rays.
Avoid waxes and polishes:
Waxes and polishes can accelerate the fading or graying process of black plastic trim. Instead of using these products on your trim, opt for a dedicated trim restorer or dressing specifically designed for plastic surfaces.
Regularly inspect and maintain:
Don't wait until your trim starts to look faded or dull again. Stay proactive by regularly inspecting your trim and maintaining it as needed. This might include reapplying a trim restorer or dressing, cleaning the trim with a mild soap and water, or touching up any areas that may be starting to show signs of wear and tear.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your car's plastic trim remains in good condition and continues to enhance the overall appearance of your vehicle. Remember, a little care and attention can go a long way in preserving the life and aesthetics of your refinished trim.
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Frequently asked questions
The easiest way to refinish faded plastic car trim is to purchase a can or bottle of plastic trim restorer from an auto parts shop or online store. Most are easy to apply and require minimal effort.
Zebra stripes are white stripes that appear on black or grey plastic trim. They are caused by the breakdown of the weakest portions of plastic, known as stress bands. To prevent zebra stripes, it is recommended to proactively apply a protective dressing or trim protectant to your plastic trim as soon as you purchase your vehicle.
The heat gun method involves using a heat gun to heat the plastic trim, drawing out the oils within the material. It is important to start with a clean surface and heat one area at a time to prevent damage. After heating, treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product to make it darker and protect against sun and rain.
There are several products available for refinishing plastic car trim, including Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, Brush on Trim Coating Gel, Spray on Trim Paint, Solution Finish Trim Restorer, and Trim Restorers and Coatings.
It is important to wear protective gear, such as gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area when refinishing plastic car trim to avoid exposure to chemicals. Always read the product labels thoroughly and follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.
