Maya Ellison
Plastic bumpers are prone to fading, discolouration, cracking, and deterioration due to sun exposure and weather conditions. To restore a plastic bumper, you can use a plastic trim restorer, olive oil, a heat gun, or paint. Before applying any products, it is important to clean and dry the bumper to remove any dirt, grime, or dust. If the bumper is severely damaged, it may be necessary to replace it or seek professional help.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to restore | When bumpers are cut, torn, faded, cracked, scratched, or have signs of folding, shrinking, or deep scratches |
| Preparation | Clean the surface with soapy water, rinse, and dry with a microfiber towel |
| Repair | Grind, sand, sculpt, and paint the bumper. Use a heat gun, blowtorch, or olive oil to restore shine. Alternatively, use bumper and trim paint, or a plastic trim restorer aerosol |
| Adhesives | Depends on the type of plastic in the bumper (PP, PPO, TPE, PUR, or TPUR) |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the plastic bumper with soapy water
To restore a plastic bumper, it is important to start with a clean surface. This will help the plastic absorb any products you use to restore its colour.
Mix a small amount of soap with warm water and use a cloth or sponge to clean the plastic bumper. You should aim to remove surface grime, dust, and dirt. It is important to be thorough and ensure that the plastic is as clean as possible. Rinse the bumper with clean water to ensure that all soap residue is removed.
Once you have cleaned the bumper, dry it with a microfiber towel. It is important to dry the bumper completely before proceeding to the next step of the restoration process.
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Use a heat gun to restore the plastic
Using a heat gun to restore a plastic bumper is a cheap and easy method when there are no other options. It is important to note that this method is only suitable for uncoated plastic bumpers.
The heat gun helps bring the oils in the plastic to the surface, and it may also melt the outer layer of the plastic. However, this method is temporary, and the plastic will eventually fade again. Each application of the heat gun draws out the oils from the plastic, making the plastic more brittle and prone to cracking and breaking. Therefore, it is recommended to use this method sparingly and only as a last resort.
To use the heat gun, start by finding a warm and dry place to work. Then, slightly scuff the damaged area and clean it with a plastic surface cleaner. Ensure that you wear cotton gloves for protection. During the process, be careful not to heat any spot for too long, as it may cause the plastic to flow and pool, creating an obvious glossy spot.
After using the heat gun, you can apply a dressing or sealant to help restore the essential oils and protect the plastic. However, even with a sealant, the oils will still be drawn out with subsequent heat gun applications.
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Apply olive oil to the plastic's surface
To restore a plastic bumper, you can apply olive oil to the plastic's surface. Olive oil can restore black plastic's natural colour, clearing up any faded or discoloured areas.
First, wash and dry the plastic surface. The olive oil will absorb best into a clean surface. Wash the plastic with soap and warm water, and dry it off with a towel before restoring it to prevent the olive oil from slipping off.
Next, pour a coin-sized amount of olive oil on a cloth. Massage the olive oil into the plastic. Rub the cloth back and forth on the targeted area for several minutes to help the plastic absorb the olive oil.
After rubbing the olive oil for a few minutes, take a dry washcloth and wipe the plastic in a circular motion. Apply heavy pressure as you do so to get rid of the olive oil grease and give the plastic an extra shine.
If you notice any patches that the olive oil didn't restore, try the process again with more oil while directly targeting the stubborn area. For severe fading or discolouration, you may need to resort to other methods, such as spray painting the plastic black.
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Use a plastic trim restorer
Using a plastic trim restorer is a great way to enhance your vehicle's appearance and boost its resale value. Before applying a plastic trim restorer, ensure the surface is completely clean. Start by washing the plastic trim with soapy water or an alcohol-based cleaning solution to remove any dirt, grime, dust, old dressings, and contaminants. Rinse well with clean water and wipe it dry with a microfiber towel.
Next, you can apply the plastic trim restorer. One popular product is Solution Finish Trim Restorer, which can be applied using a microfiber or foam applicator. Wipe off any excess product with a clean towel and allow the plastic to dry for several hours. After the first application, your trim will look new again, and a second application can make it last even longer.
Another option is to use a dye, such as Trim Kote or Trim Dye, which bonds with the plastic for long-lasting colour restoration. Wear disposable gloves and apply the dye evenly to the plastic in small sections, allowing it to dry before moving on to the next section.
For added protection, you can apply a product like Revival Trim Dressing, which provides UV protection and a subtle shine, helping to prevent future fading from sunlight and harsh weather.
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Sand the area by hand
Sanding by hand is an important step in restoring a plastic bumper. It helps to create a smooth and even surface for the repair. Here is a step-by-step guide to sanding a plastic bumper by hand:
First, ensure you have removed the plastic piece from your bumper. This may involve removing screws, so be sure to check under the tail lights, behind the wheel wells, and below the trunk latch. Once the plastic piece is removed, find a warm and dry place to work, as this will ensure the repair adhesives cure properly.
Next, if the bumper is cut or torn, scrub both the inner and outer surfaces. Rinse the bumper and allow it to dry. After the surface is dry, you can begin sanding. Use 80-grit sandpaper and sand the affected area by hand. Move in one direction only when sanding, and be sure to wear the appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
If your bumper is made of a plastic type that powders when sanded (PUR, TPUR), you will need to create a "V" groove in the damaged area. This will allow for better adhesion of the repair material. You can cut these grooves with a 24-grit disc on a sander. On the other hand, if your bumper is made of a plastic type that smears when sanded (PP, PPO, TPE), use a cordless drill with a rotary file to create the grooves.
After sanding, you can continue with the repair process, which may involve sculpting, painting, or applying a plastic trim restorer. Remember to follow the specific instructions of the products you are using and always work in a well-ventilated area.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by washing and drying the bumper with soap and water. Next, apply a product such as olive oil, black plastic trim moisturizer, or plastic trim restorer. Finally, buff the surface with a dry cloth.
You can use household items such as olive oil or purchase a plastic trim restorer, black plastic trim moisturizer, or bumper and trim paint.
First, remove the plastic piece from your bumper. Then, in a warm, dry place, clean the damaged area with a plastic surface cleaner and sand it by hand. Finally, apply repair adhesives, ensuring they are compatible with the type of plastic in your bumper.
You can use a product such as olive oil or black plastic trim moisturizer to restore the colour of a faded plastic bumper. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun or apply black spray paint.
