Ethan Clarke
Black plastic trim is an essential component of modern cars, protecting the original surface from scratches and dents. However, black plastic is susceptible to fading and discolouration over time, losing its deep black colour and turning grey. This can negatively impact the overall appearance of a car. Fortunately, there are several methods to restore faded black plastic trim.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleaning products | Isopropyl alcohol, Solution Finish Trim Restorer, WD40, dedicated interior cleaning products |
| Restoring products | Olive oil, heat gun, black spray paint, black plastic trim moisturizer, Solution Finish Black Trim Restorer, CERAKOTE Ceramic Trim Coat Kit, Gtechniq – C4 Permanent Trim Restorer |
| Tools | Microfiber cloth, paper towel, flame-resistant tarp, plastic applicator, foam applicator, spray bottle |
| Techniques | Wash and dry the plastic's surface, rub the product into the plastic, buff with a dry cloth, use a heat gun on a medium setting |
| Considerations | Avoid using Vaseline or other petroleum jelly products, cover nearby non-plastic objects with a tarp, ensure good ventilation, wear gloves and eye protection |
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Using olive oil
Olive oil can be used to restore washed-out black plastic. Firstly, wash the plastic with soap and warm water to ensure the surface is clean. Dry the plastic with a towel. Next, pour a coin-sized amount of olive oil onto a washcloth or paper towel. Massage the olive oil into the plastic, rubbing it back and forth for several minutes to help the plastic absorb the oil.
To avoid getting olive oil on nearby objects, cover them with a tarp or towel. Then, buff the plastic with a dry cloth, applying heavy pressure and using circular motions to remove the olive oil grease and give the plastic a shine. Inspect the plastic for any residual discoloration. If there are patches that the olive oil didn't restore, repeat the process, targeting the specific area.
It is important to note that olive oil may need to be reapplied periodically, especially if the plastic is exposed to sunlight. Additionally, olive oil may attract dust and dirt, so it is recommended to cover nearby objects to avoid staining.
While olive oil can restore the appearance of black plastic, it may not provide long-lasting results. For a more permanent solution, consider using a heat gun to draw out the oils within the plastic or applying a specialised plastic trim restorer.
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Applying heat
When using a heat gun, set it to medium-low. The aim is to heat the plastic, not melt it. Work the heat gun slowly and methodically over the surface area you want to restore, ensuring that you heat a small area evenly before moving on to the next. As the plastic heats up, you should see its natural deep black colour returning. This is because the heat gun draws out the oil already embedded in the plastic and brings it to the surface.
Once you have covered the entire surface, turn off the heat gun and inspect the plastic's new colour. If you are happy with the colour, you have finished restoring the object. If not, you can try applying olive oil or painting the object instead.
It is important to note that this method is not a permanent fix. The oils will gradually start to dry and degrade again, so you will have to repeat the process. However, this process cannot be repeated indefinitely, as only a limited amount of oil is stored in the plastic.
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Spray painting
Next, sand the surface with a 220-grit sanding block. Sanding provides texture and helps the paint adhere better. After sanding, remember to wipe away any dust with a dry brush or a paintbrush. You can also apply a coat of primer to further improve paint adhesion. When spraying, hold the nozzle about 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) away from the surface. Move the can in smooth, overlapping strokes to ensure even coverage.
Apply 3-4 coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Each coat should take around 30-60 minutes to dry, but always check the paint packaging for specific instructions. Once the final coat is dry, you can apply a clear paint primer to protect the paint from fading, discolouration, or chipping. This step is especially important if the object will be used outdoors.
It is important to note that spray painting may not restore the plastic to its exact original colour. It might end up looking darker than before. Additionally, spray painting is not a permanent solution, as the paint will eventually fade or chip over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.
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Plastic restorers
Using a Heat Gun:
One way to restore black plastic is to use a heat gun on the faded area. This method is primarily for car trims and bumpers. It is important to cover nearby non-plastic objects with a tarp before using the heat gun, as it can warp or discolour other surfaces. The heat gun should be set to medium-low, as the goal is to heat the plastic, not melt it. As the plastic heats up, its natural deep black colour should return. However, this method is not a permanent fix, as the oils will gradually start to dry and degrade again.
Using Olive Oil:
Another way to restore black plastic is to rub olive oil onto the faded area. First, wash and dry the plastic's surface, as the olive oil will absorb better into a clean surface. Then, pour a coin-sized amount of olive oil onto a cloth and rub it into the plastic. After a few minutes, buff the plastic with a dry cloth to remove any leftover oil. If this doesn't work, you can try using more oil and directly targeting the stubborn area.
Using Plastic Restorer Products:
There are also plastic restorer products available that can help rejuvenate and restore faded plastic surfaces. These products can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, including outdoor furniture, car trims, and uPVC windows. One such product is Solution Finish Trim Restorer, which can be applied to the plastic using a microfiber or foam applicator. After application, wipe off any excess product and allow the plastic to dry for 6 hours. A second application can last even longer, as it works to fix the damaged plastic, not just dress it. To protect the surface from UV rays, you can use Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer.
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Cleaning products
The first step in restoring washed-out black plastic is to ensure the plastic surface is clean. This can be done with soap and warm water, and a washcloth or brush can be used to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. For more neglected pieces of plastic, a medium-bristle brush and an all-purpose cleaner can be used. If the plastic is to be painted, it is important to dry it off with a towel after washing.
Once the plastic is clean, there are several products that can be used to restore the colour. A natural option is olive oil, which can restore the black colour and clear up any faded or discoloured areas. Linseed oil or baby oil can also be used. Simply pour a coin-sized amount onto a cloth and massage it into the plastic.
There are also several commercial products available for restoring black plastic. These include:
- Torque Detail Plastic Restore: This product is sprayed onto the plastic and left to sink in before wiping away any excess.
- Solution Finish Black Trim Restorer: This product is applied with a foam, microfiber, or cotton applicator pad and massaged into the plastic. Any excess product is then wiped away.
- That Black Stuff: This is a permanent coating that is wiped onto the plastic.
- FOLLOWIN Plastic Restorer: A highly concentrated ceramic coating that is said to resist water and dirt.
- SIHOOPE Black Trim Restorer: A liquid plastic restorer that promises a factory-new appearance.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a plastic restorer, such as the CERAKOTE Ceramic Trim Coat Kit, Gtechniq – C4 Permanent Trim Restorer, or Solution Finish Black Trim Restorer. You can also use olive oil, or a heat gun.
Set the heat gun to medium-low and slowly work it over the surface of the plastic. Be methodical and heat a small area evenly before moving on. Cover any nearby non-plastic objects with a tarp, as heat guns can warp or discolour them.
Wash and dry the plastic, then rub a coin-sized amount of olive oil into the plastic using a washcloth or paper towel. After a few minutes, buff it with a dry cloth to remove any excess oil.
You could try a black plastic trim moisturiser, or spray paint the plastic black. If you do use spray paint, use a primer first and then spray on a coat of clear primer once the paint is dry, to protect it from fading and chipping.
