Sofia Martinez
Plastic is a staple material in modern car manufacturing. It is used in various parts of a car, including the headlights, bumpers, grilles, and interior materials. However, plastic car parts, especially those that are black, can turn grey, crack, fade, or deteriorate when exposed to harsh sunlight and extreme weather conditions. The good news is that there are several methods to restore plastic trim on cars and make them look new again. Some popular methods include using a heat gun, applying oil or other products, and spray dyeing.
How to restore plastic trim on cars
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic trim restorer | Use a heat gun, but it will make the plastic fade faster |
| Alternative products | Canola oil on a rag, mayonnaise, Sem color coat, Fluid Film, Solution Finish, Back to Black, Cerekote, Ceramic coating |
| Alternative methods | Use a propane torch (only on non-painted plastics), lightly sand with a sanding sponge |
| Notes | Always start with a clean or freshly-washed surface, heat one area at a time to prevent damage, treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product after heating |
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What You'll Learn
Using a heat gun
Before using a heat gun, it is important to prepare the vehicle. Use heat-reflective material to protect the car's paint from any potential damage. It is also crucial to ensure that the plastic is clean, as years of cleaning products can build up and cause blotchy results. Power washing the plastic trim is an effective way to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned.
When using the heat gun, it is recommended to start with a lower heat setting and move the gun in a gentle, sweeping motion. Maintain a distance of about 3 inches from the plastic surface and move slowly, following an even pattern to avoid any splotchy or uneven results. Be cautious not to heat any spot for too long, as it may cause the plastic to flow and pool, creating an obvious glossy spot.
It is worth noting that while this method can restore the colour of the plastic trim, it is only temporary. The heat brings oils or plasticizers to the surface, and these can oxidize, leaving the plastic weaker. Additionally, repeated heat treatment can make the plastic more brittle, increasing the chances of cracking and breaking. Therefore, it is essential to consider other methods, such as using a plastic restorer or protectant, in conjunction with or as an alternative to heat treatment.
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Applying oil
If you're looking to restore the plastic trim on your car, there are a few different methods you can try. One popular method is to use a heat gun to bring the oils in the plastic to the surface, reducing the appearance of oxidation and restoring the trim. However, this method can be risky as it involves melting the plastic surface, and if you're not careful, you could end up warping the plastic or damaging the surrounding paint and rubber. It's important to test this method on an inconspicuous area first to avoid any damage.
Another method that has been known to work is to use a cloth or rag with some oil, such as olive oil or canola oil, and rub it onto the faded areas. Start by cleaning the plastic trim with soapy water to remove any grime, dust, or dirt. Rinse it well with clean water and wipe it dry with a microfiber towel. Then, apply a coin-sized amount of oil to the towel and rub it onto the faded areas. You can also use a separate cloth to buff the surface lightly using rapid circular motions. This method will give your trim a shiny, black finish, but it will need to be reapplied at least weekly to maintain the look and protect against UV rays.
It's important to note that these methods are temporary solutions, and the trim will eventually fade again. For a more permanent solution, you may need to consider using a plastic restorer or coating specifically designed for this purpose. These products can provide excellent results with minimal effort and are completely risk-free. Good quality plastic restorers will be absorbed by the plastic, breaking down the oxidation that causes the fading and nourishing the plastic to restore its original appearance.
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Dyeing
Before applying any dye, it is important to clean the plastic trim to remove any surface grime, dust, or dirt. This can be done using an alcohol-based cleaning solution, such as Detail King's Wipe Clean, or a quality all-purpose cleaner. It is also important to ensure that the plastic trim is completely dry before applying the dye.
Once the plastic trim is clean and dry, the dye can be applied. It is important to follow the instructions on the product packaging, as application processes may vary. However, in general, a small amount of dye should be applied to a dressing applicator or sponge and worked evenly over the plastic surface. It is important to allow the dye to dry completely before handling the trim or exposing it to water.
After the dye has dried, a trim dressing can be applied to protect the plastic trim from fading again and to give the restored surface a nice shine. Detail King's Revival Trim Dressing is a popular option for this step. It is a durable conditioning cream that revamps and glosses exterior vinyl, plastic, and rubber components.
It is important to note that dyeing plastic trim is not a permanent solution, and regular maintenance and reapplication may be required to maintain the desired appearance. Additionally, it is always a good idea to test the dye on a small, inconspicuous area of the plastic trim before applying it to the entire surface, to ensure that the color and finish are as desired.
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Sanding
Step 1: Clean the Plastic Trim
Before starting the sanding process, it is essential to clean the plastic trim thoroughly. Use a dedicated cleaner or a mild soap solution to remove any dirt, dust, or grime buildup. Rinse the trim with clean water and wipe it dry with a microfiber towel. This step ensures that there is no residue left on the surface, which could interfere with the sanding process.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Sanding Tool
Select a suitable sanding tool for the job. You can use a sanding sponge, sandpaper, or a sanding block specifically designed for curved surfaces. Choose a fine grit sandpaper, such as 800-grit, to avoid creating deep scratches on the plastic.
Step 3: Start Sanding
Begin sanding the plastic trim gently and thoroughly. Take your time and work in small sections, applying light pressure. Follow the direction of the scratches or imperfections, moving in straight lines. Avoid using too much pressure or sanding in circular motions, as this can create swirl marks or uneven surfaces.
Step 4: Smooth Transitions
Pay close attention to the edges and transitions between sanded and unsanded areas. Ensure a smooth transition by blending the sanded areas into the surrounding surfaces. This helps achieve a seamless and uniform finish.
Step 5: Remove Dust and Debris
After sanding, use a soft brush or a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris generated during the process. Wipe the surface gently to ensure no particles are left behind, which could affect the adhesion of subsequent coatings.
Step 6: Inspect and Refine
Inspect the sanded surface for any remaining scratches or imperfections. If necessary, repeat the sanding process, using a lighter grit sandpaper, to refine the finish further. Remember to work gradually and carefully to avoid over-sanding or damaging the plastic.
It is important to note that sanding is just one part of the plastic trim restoration process. For a complete restoration, additional steps such as cleaning, priming, and painting may be required, depending on the condition of the trim and the desired outcome.
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Using a propane torch
Before using the propane torch, ensure that the plastic trim is ultra-clean. Use acetone as a final wipe before treatment to remove any dirt and grime. Make sure you have plenty of light during the process, as shadows can make it difficult to judge the impact of the treatment.
When using the propane torch, avoid holding it in one spot for too long, as this will cause discolouration and an uneven finish. Keep the torch in constant motion, maintaining a distance of about 3 inches from the plastic surface. Be extremely cautious not to let the flame come into contact with any painted surfaces, as the heat can easily damage the clear coat.
It is recommended to test the torch on an inconspicuous area first to get a feel for the heat output and its effects on the plastic. Additionally, consider using a dedicated plastic coating or restoring product in conjunction with the heat treatment for more consistent and longer-lasting results.
While using a propane torch can be effective in restoring the colour of plastic trim, it is important to understand its limitations. The results may only be temporary, as the plastic can turn grey and dull again over time. Repeated torching can further damage the plastic, leading to brittleness and potentially requiring costly replacements. Therefore, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks before proceeding with this method.
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Frequently asked questions
You can purchase a can or bottle of plastic trim restorer from an auto parts shop or online store. Most are easy to apply and reasonably priced.
You can use olive oil, canola oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product. Apply the oil to a cloth and rub it into the plastic trim until it is covered. Allow it to soak for 5-10 minutes, then use a separate dry towel to buff the surface.
Heating the plastic with a heat gun or propane torch can restore the colour, but it is easy for the plastic to warp or melt, and the colour will fade faster over time. Always start with a clean surface to avoid burning contaminants into the plastic.
Avoid using any products that involve heat, as this can damage the plastic. Some store-bought products may also be ineffective.
You can use a product called Solution Finish, which is a paint designed for plastics. You can also use Sem Color Coat, which is a dye that soaks into the plastic.
