Sofia Martinez
The Honda Element is a compact crossover SUV manufactured between 2003 and 2011. Its unique aesthetic has garnered a cult following, with many owners seeking to modify and maintain their vehicles. One common issue is the restoration of faded plastic exterior trim. Owners have suggested various methods, including using waxes and polishes, and even a 50/50 mix of paint thinner and boiled linseed oil, which is highly flammable. Some have also recommended using a heat gun on the plastic until it's almost melted, then buffing it to a shine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning products | Adam's Polishes Ceramic Trim Coating, Adam's Ceramic Coating Prep Spray, soap and water, alcohol, Restore-X, Back to Black, Turtle Wax Ice, Armor All, 303 Aerospace, Son-of-a-Gun Foaming Tire Protectant |
| Tools | Heat gun, paint thinner, boiled linseed oil, strong detergent |
| Notes | The plastic clips are fragile and will break. Some force is required to remove them. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing exterior plastic panels
Firstly, it is important to note that the panels are held in place by a combination of bolts, screws, and plastic clips. The plastic clips are particularly fragile and prone to breaking, so extra care should be taken when dealing with them. Before attempting to remove any panels, ensure you have the proper prying tools to avoid causing any unnecessary damage.
For the roof panels, begin by removing the four access panels to identify which trim pieces are secured by bolts and which are held by snap-in retainers. This will help determine the order of removal, as you'll want to start with the pieces that overlap others. It is recommended to start at the rear and work your way forward. When removing the roof panels, be cautious of any breakable pieces or clips, such as those found in the windshield trim.
For the fenders and bumpers, some of the clips can be removed with a standard screwdriver. However, most of them will require a significant amount of force to detach. Be prepared to purchase extra clips, as the original ones may break during this process.
When removing panels around the door handles, mirrors, and cowls, be extra careful to avoid getting any solvent or linseed oil on the paint. While it won't harm the paint, it is much easier to clean if it doesn't come into contact with these surfaces.
After removing the panels, you can proceed with your desired restoration or modification process. Keep in mind that any solvent/linseed oil combination used during this process is highly flammable, so proper safety precautions should be taken when handling and disposing of rags or other materials used.
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Using wax and polishes
Renewing the plastic panels on your Honda Element can be a tricky process. One option is to use a wax or polish. There are many products on the market that can help restore the plastic trim on your Honda Element. Adam's Polishes offer a ceramic trim coating and a ceramic coating prep spray that can help renew your plastic panels. While these products are expensive, they are highly reviewed.
You can also use a combination of soap and water, and finish it off with some alcohol on a clean rag. Other products that can be used include Back to Black, Turtle Wax Ice, Armor All, and 303 Aerospace. However, these products may not last long, with reports of streaking and uneven coverage after a single wash or rainstorm.
For a more intensive treatment, you can try a 50/50 mix of paint thinner and boiled linseed oil. This solution can be rubbed onto the panels, and the excess can be buffed off. This method chemically softens the plastic, allowing the linseed oil to penetrate deeply. It is important to note that this mixture is highly flammable, so all rags should be discarded or soaked in a strong detergent after use.
Another product that has been recommended is Son-of-a-Gun Foaming Tire Protectant, which can be used on the plastic panels.
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Paint thinner and linseed oil
To renew the plastic on your Honda Element, you can use a 50/50 mixture of boiled linseed oil and paint thinner. This mixture will restore the vibrancy of the plastic and add a layer of protection. Linseed oil is a natural oil extracted from flax seeds and is used to preserve concrete and wood. Paint thinner helps improve drying time.
Before applying the mixture, it is important to clean the surface with a wax remover or 91% alcohol. You can then mix the linseed oil and paint thinner in a container and apply the solution using a spray bottle, foam brush, or rag. It can be applied to cladding, plastic in front of the windshield, roof rack, mirrors, door handles, and other plastic surfaces. Be careful to avoid getting the mixture on painted surfaces, as it may be difficult to clean off.
After application, use a clean towel to wipe off any excess. It is important to note that both linseed oil and paint thinner are highly flammable, so all rags and towels used should be discarded or soaked in a strong detergent after use.
This method is a cost-effective and efficient way to restore the plastic on your Honda Element. However, it may not bring the plastic trim back to 100% factory condition, and the results may vary depending on the exposure of the plastic to the sun. Additionally, linseed oil is not UV-proof, so it may not provide long-term protection against UV rays.
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Cleaning with soap and water
To renew the plastic on your Honda Element, you can try cleaning it with soap and water. This method is recommended by several Honda Element owners.
First, ensure your Honda Element is cool before cleaning. Spraying water on hot surfaces can cause thermal shock and damage the paint or engine components. Then, grab a soft brush and a solution of mild detergent and water. You can also use a cloth or sponge. Simple Green is a detergent recommended by one Honda Element owner.
Use the brush or sponge to gently rub the soiled area, rinsing frequently with fresh, cool water. Be careful to keep brake fluid or chemical solvents away from plastic surfaces, as they will damage them.
After cleaning, rinse the car thoroughly with plenty of clean water. This is because strong detergent residue can corrode alloy parts. Dry the car with a clean cloth. You can then finish off by applying a commercial spray cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste wax.
If you are cleaning the inside of your car, one Honda Element owner recommends using a 50/50 mix of paint thinner and boiled linseed oil on the plastic. Buff off the excess. This method is highly flammable, so take care to discard any rags used.
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Using tire protectant
Renewing the plastic panels on a Honda Element can be a challenging task. The plastic panels on a Honda Element can become oxidized over time due to exposure to various elements such as salt, rain, and sunshine. This can result in a faded appearance and a loss of luster. While there are various methods and products available for restoring plastic panels, one popular method suggested by many Honda Element enthusiasts is the use of a 50/50 mixture of paint thinner and boiled linseed oil.
When it comes to using tire protectant to renew the plastic panels on your Honda Element, there are a few specific steps you can follow to achieve the best results:
- Clean the Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic panels to remove any dirt, dust, or grime buildup. This step ensures that the protectant will adhere properly to the surface.
- Choose a High-Quality Tire Protectant: Select a tire protectant that is specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Look for products that offer UV protection, such as Chemical Guys' Tire + Trim Gel Plastic and Rubber High-Gloss Restorer and Protectant. This product is designed to nourish and restore faded trim while protecting against dirt, water, and harmful UV rays.
- Apply the Protectant: Follow the instructions on the chosen tire protectant for proper application. Typically, you will shake the bottle and apply a small amount of the product directly onto a foam or microfiber applicator pad. Spread the product evenly across the plastic panels, ensuring complete coverage.
- Buff and Remove Excess: After applying the tire protectant, use a clean microfiber towel to buff the panels. This will help remove any excess residue and create a smooth, even finish.
- Allow Drying Time: Give the tire protectant adequate time to dry and cure. Refer to the product instructions for the recommended drying time, which is usually around 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add Additional Layers: Depending on the desired level of protection and shine, consider applying additional layers of the tire protectant. Follow the same application process for each additional layer.
- Maintain and Reapply: To maintain the renewed appearance of your plastic panels, regularly clean them and reapply the tire protectant as needed. This will help protect the panels from further fading and deterioration.
By following these steps and using a high-quality tire protectant, you can effectively renew the plastic panels on your Honda Element, restoring their original shine and protecting them from future damage.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic clips that hold the panels in place are fragile and will likely break. You will need to apply some force to remove them. You can use a screwdriver to remove the one-inch clips located under the fenders and bumpers.
There are many products available to restore the colour of plastic panels. Adam's Polishes offers a ceramic trim coating and a ceramic coating prep spray. Alternatively, you can use a 50/50 mix of paint thinner and boiled linseed oil, which will soften the plastic and allow the oil to penetrate deeply. You can also try Son-of-a-Gun foaming tire protectant.
Yes, the solvent/linseed oil combination is highly flammable, so be sure to discard any rags soaked in this mixture after use.
