Maya Ellison
Plastic is a common material used in cars due to its lightweight, mouldable, and impact-resistant properties. However, plastic car interiors are susceptible to fading, discolouration, and deterioration over time due to exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions. Restoring faded plastic trim can enhance the appearance of your car and make it look newer. There are several methods and products available for restoring car interior plastic trim, including using heat guns, propane torches, plastic restorers, dyes, oils, and sealers. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and some may be more suitable for certain types of plastic or specific car models.
How to restore car interior plastic trim
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Causes of damage | Age, hot weather, sun exposure, unpredictable weather |
| Solutions | Heat gun, propane torch, plastic restorer, olive oil, WD-40, trim restoration product, Solution Finish Trim Restorer, Over The Top Plastic Sealer, canola oil, mayonnaise, Sem color coat |
| Notes | Heating plastic can be damaging, and the finish will fade after repeated washings or weather exposure. Reapplication is often necessary. |
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What You'll Learn
Using a heat gun
Firstly, it is essential to clean the plastic trim thoroughly before applying heat. This can be done using soapy water and a microfiber towel. Removing surface grime, dust, and dirt is crucial, as any remaining contaminants can burn into the plastic during the heating process, causing blotchy results.
Once the surface is clean, the heat gun can be used to restore the plastic trim. It is important to set the heat gun to a low or medium setting to avoid warping the plastic. The gun should be held at a distance of four to six inches from the surface and moved in slow, sweeping motions to ensure even heat distribution. This process should be done one area at a time to prevent damage.
The heat from the gun will break down the surface pigment and molecular composition of the plastic, allowing the chemical bonds between the polymers to realign. This process draws out the natural oils from beneath the surface, restoring the colour and shine of the plastic.
After heating, it is recommended to treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product. This adds darkness and protection to the surface. Additionally, a UV protectant can be applied to maintain the results and prevent further fading.
While the heat gun method is effective, it is not a permanent solution. The natural oils will eventually deplete, and the colour may fade again over time. Therefore, it is important to maintain the trim regularly and take preventive measures to prolong the results.
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Olive oil, WD-40, or trim restoration product
Olive Oil
To restore car interior plastic trim with olive oil, start by cleaning 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 a coin-sized amount of olive oil to a dry microfiber towel and gently rub the oiled towel on the faded plastic using small, circular motions. If the cloth becomes dirty, turn it over, apply more oil, and continue rubbing until the oil covers all faded areas. Allow the plastic to absorb the oil by letting it soak for 5 to 10 minutes. Finally, grab a separate dry towel and buff the surface lightly using rapid circular motions. Reapply oil at least weekly to protect the plastic from harsh UV rays.
WD-40
WD-40 can be used to restore car interior plastic trim, especially if the discolouration is due to wax buildup. Clean the plastic trim with soapy water and wipe it dry before applying WD-40. Note that WD-40 may only temporarily improve the appearance of the trim by covering up the wax, rather than removing it.
Trim Restoration Product
There are various trim restoration products available, such as Solution Finish Trim Restorer, that can be applied to restore car interior plastic trim. Before applying the product, clean the plastic trim with soapy water and wipe it dry. Then, apply a small amount of the product to an applicator pad or microfiber sponge, spreading a thin coat over the area in an even motion. Allow the solution to penetrate for 3 to 4 minutes, and then use a clean microfiber towel to buff off the excess. Some trim restoration products, such as Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer, can be used as a UV protectant topper over the restorer.
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Cleaning with isopropyl alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, can be used to clean car interior plastic trim. It is important to note that isopropyl alcohol is a potent solvent and should be used with caution, as it can damage certain surfaces and materials. In the context of car interior plastic trim restoration, isopropyl alcohol is primarily used to remove contaminants and prepare the surface for further treatment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean car interior plastic trim using isopropyl alcohol:
Step 1: Prepare the Workspace and Gather Materials
Before beginning the cleaning process, ensure that you have all the necessary materials, including isopropyl alcohol (concentration: 70-90%), microfiber sponges or applicator pads, and clean microfiber towels. It is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area to allow for proper airflow during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Clean the Plastic Trim
Start by thoroughly inspecting the plastic trim for any dirt, stains, or abrasive contaminants. Even if the trim appears clean at first glance, it is crucial to give it a thorough cleaning to prevent sealing in any dirt or grime that could damage the plastic. Use a microfiber sponge or applicator pad to apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to the trim. Spread the isopropyl alcohol evenly over the surface, ensuring complete coverage. Allow the solution to penetrate the surface for 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Buff and Wipe the Surface
After the penetration time has passed, use a clean microfiber towel to buff and wipe away the excess isopropyl alcohol. Pay close attention to glass and painted surfaces, immediately wiping away any isopropyl alcohol from these areas to prevent potential damage. Continue buffing until the surface is dry and free of any residue.
Step 4: Inspect and Repeat if Necessary
Once the surface has dried, inspect the plastic trim for any remaining contaminants or discolouration. If there are still signs of dirt or stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning process to ensure a thorough cleaning. This step is crucial to ensure that the subsequent restoration treatments are applied to a clean and prepared surface.
Precautions and Considerations
While isopropyl alcohol is effective in cleaning and preparing plastic trim for restoration, it is important to exercise caution. Always test the isopropyl alcohol on a small, inconspicuous area of the plastic trim before proceeding with the full application. Additionally, isopropyl alcohol should not be used on painted or glass surfaces, as it can cause damage. Always follow the instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the isopropyl alcohol product you are using.
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Using a plastic dye
Before applying a plastic dye to restore your car's interior trim, it is important to clean the plastic surface thoroughly. Use an alcohol-based cleaning solution to wipe down the plastic, removing any dirt, old dressings, and contaminants. If the trim has been previously dressed, scrub it with a degreaser and rinse it before cleaning. You can use a product like Detail King's Wipe Clean or a multipurpose cleaner.
Next, you will need to gather your protective gear and prepare your work area. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from chemicals, and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. If there are areas around the plastic trim that need to be protected, use Safe Release Painter's Tape to cover them. This will prevent the dye from accidentally getting on paint or glass surfaces.
Now, you are ready to apply the plastic dye. Trim Kote is a popular semi-permanent dye that can be used on unpainted plastic and vinyl trim. It bonds with the plastic, providing long-lasting colour restoration. Apply the Trim Kote to a shop towel or applicator, and then rub the dye evenly into the plastic, working in small sections. Ensure that you apply the dye evenly and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next section.
In warm weather, Trim Kote should dry within 5 to 10 minutes, while cooler temperatures may take up to 20 minutes. Do not use Trim Kote in extremely hot weather, as it will dry too quickly and may cause an uneven finish. Once the dye is dry, you can apply additional coats if needed, but it is generally recommended to not apply more than three coats.
After dyeing the plastic trim, you may want to apply a protectant or dressing to seal in the restoration and prevent future fading from sunlight and harsh weather. Detail King's Revival Trim Dressing can be used to provide UV protection and a subtle shine.
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Sanding and polishing
Start by lightly sanding the trim with 1200-grit wet-dry sandpaper. This will help create an even surface for the polish to adhere to. You can then apply a plastic restorer, such as Solution Finish Trim Restorer, to restore and fix the trim. Wipe off any excess product with a clean towel and let it dry for about six hours.
If you want to enhance and extend the life of the treatment, you can use a product like Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer. This product also protects against harmful UV rays, which can cause discolouration and fading. Apply the sealer in thin coats, allowing each coat to dry for 20 to 30 minutes.
For machine polishing, use a small 3-inch machine, like an MPX Dual Action Polisher, to limit the build-up of heat under the pad. You can also use a Dual Action (DA) machine, which has an orbital rotation designed to reduce heat accumulation. To avoid damaging the trim, use a less aggressive pad and compound than you would on painted surfaces.
For hand polishing, start with a finer compound and switch to a heavier cut if necessary. You can use Revitalise Spot Pads attached to a Handi Puck for better results.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to restore car interior plastic trim. Firstly, identify if the plastic is painted or not. For unpainted plastics, a propane torch can be used to lightly heat the plastic, but be careful not to heat any area for too long. Then, treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product. For painted plastics, use a product like Solution Finish, which is a paint designed for plastics and comes in grey and black shades.
Some products that can be used to restore car interior plastic trim include Solution Finish, Sem Color Coat, Fluid Film, mayonnaise, olive oil, WD-40, and plastic restorer.
Heating the plastic draws out the oils within the material, but it is important to be careful as the plastic can easily warp or melt. Always start with a clean surface and heat one area at a time to prevent damage.
While the heat gun method can be effective, it is not a long-term solution. The plastic will eventually turn grey and dull again, and repeated heating will further damage the plastic, requiring a replacement.
Yes, there are some simple DIY methods to restore car interior plastic trim. One method is to use oil (such as olive oil or canola oil) and a cloth. Rub the oil onto the faded areas, let it soak for 5-10 minutes, and then buff the surface with a dry towel using rapid circular motions. Reapply the oil at least weekly to maintain the results.
