Alexei Volkov
Maintaining the exterior painted plastic of your car is key to keeping it looking brand new. Over time, the plastic trim on the exterior of your car can get scratched, faded, and oxidized, making your car look older. To keep the plastic trim of your car well-maintained, you can either polish it or spray paint it. Polishing the plastic trim of your car involves washing the trim with mild liquid soap and water, taping around the trim, applying a plastic polishing compound, and finally, buffing off the polish. On the other hand, spray painting the plastic trim of your car involves removing the trim, cleaning it with soapy water, applying an adhesion promoter, applying spray paint, and finally, applying a lacquer.
How to Treat Car Exterior Painted Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Revitalise the exterior appearance of a car |
| Tools | Paint, sandpaper, mask, primer, lacquer, microfiber polishing cloth, screwdriver, adhesion promoter, rotary polisher, foam pad, soft cloth, etc. |
| Steps | 1. Remove the plastic part from the car. 2. Clean the surface with a wax and grease remover. 3. Sand the surface to remove the shine. 4. Clean the surface with soapy water. 5. Apply primer. 6. Apply paint. 7. Apply lacquer. 8. Polish the plastic part. |
| Benefits | Improved aesthetics, enhanced durability, protection from environmental conditions, cost-effectiveness, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right paint
Type of Plastic
Different types of plastics require specific types of paint. For example, if you are painting hard plastics such as ABS or PVC, you should use a different paint than if you were painting flexible plastics like TPO or PP. It is important to select a paint that is specifically designed for the type of plastic you are working with to ensure proper adhesion and a durable finish.
Environmental Factors
Consider the environmental conditions to which the painted plastic will be exposed. If the car is often exposed to UV light, moisture, or harsh weather conditions, choose a paint with UV stabilizers and protective properties. Polyurethane paints, for instance, are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to chemicals and UV rays, making them ideal for exterior automotive plastic parts.
Finish and Appearance
The desired finish and appearance of the painted plastic should also influence your paint choice. Do you prefer a glossy or matte finish? Acrylic lacquer plastic paints provide a high-gloss finish and a sleek, polished look. On the other hand, water-based paints offer good coverage, quick-drying times, and low odour, making them suitable for interior automotive plastic parts.
Adhesion and Durability
To ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic surface and provides a lasting finish, consider using an adhesion promoter before painting. Additionally, a high-build primer is essential to prepare the plastic surface and ensure the paint job lasts longer. The primer will help the paint adhere better and provide a more even finish.
Colour and Matching
When choosing the right paint, colour matching is crucial. Ensure that the paint colour matches the rest of the car's exterior or interior, depending on the part you are painting. Many paint suppliers offer colour-matching services to help you achieve a perfect match.
By considering these factors and selecting a paint that suits your specific needs, you can achieve a high-quality and durable finish when treating car exterior painted plastic.
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Preparing the plastic
Firstly, it is recommended to remove the plastic parts from the car's exterior if possible. This allows for easier access and a more efficient painting process. Use a screwdriver to slowly remove the screws holding the plastic trim in place. Ensure there are no electrical components attached to the trim when removing it. If removal is not feasible, the next step is to mask off the surrounding bodywork to prevent overspray. Use masking tape specifically designed for automotive use, such as perforated trim masking tape for curved parts and precision masking tape for straight edges or slight bends.
Once the plastic part is removed or masked off, it's time to clean the surface. Start by using a wax and grease remover with a lint-free cloth to wipe down the plastic. This will ensure that the surface is free of any grease or grime that may interfere with the paint adhesion. After this, lightly scuff the surface with sandpaper. Use sandpaper with a grit level between 150 and 1200 to get a smooth finish. The goal is to remove the 'shine' from the plastic and create a slightly rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Be sure to scuff all areas, and don't forget to use the wax and grease remover again afterward.
The next step is to apply a primer to the prepared plastic surface. Choose a high-build primer suitable for plastic surfaces, as this will ensure that the paint adheres well and the colour lasts longer. Hold the primer can about 6-7 inches away from the surface and start spraying, ensuring an even finish across the entire substrate. Apply 3-4 coats of primer, allowing sufficient drying time between coats (around 15 minutes).
After the primer coats have dried, you may need to apply an adhesion promoter, especially if you are working with flexible plastic. Shake the can of adhesion promoter and hold it about 6 inches from the surface. Apply a thin coat by moving the can back and forth across the trim. Once one side is done, flip it over and spray the other side. If you are working with hard plastic, you can start spraying the paint while the adhesion promoter is still wet. For flexible plastic, wait for it to dry completely before proceeding.
Now, you are ready to start painting the plastic. Choose a spray paint specifically designed for plastic surfaces and hold the can about 6 inches from the surface. Start spraying by moving the can back and forth across the trim, ensuring a thin and even coat. Apply the paint in the opposite direction for each coat to get an even finish. Allow each coat to dry for about 10 minutes before applying subsequent coats. Depending on the coverage, you may need to apply two or more coats.
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Applying the primer
To ensure the paint takes to the surface well, you will need to apply a suitable primer. Before you begin, make sure you are wearing a mask and are in a well-ventilated, spacious area. You should also remove the plastic part you are going to paint, so you can do a thorough job without accidentally spraying another part of your car.
Firstly, sand the surface down to remove any bobbles or raised marks on the plastic substrate. You can use sandpaper with a grit level of 150-1200. This step must not be rushed, as it is imperative to not only attain a smooth surface but to also sand off the 'shine' of the plastic. Once sanded, the part needs to be cleaned with soapy water to make sure the surface is completely clear of dirt and excess debris caused by the sandpaper.
Now you are ready to apply the primer. Hold the can around 6-7 inches away from the part. Keep the can upright and start spraying before the primer passes over the part – this way you’ll ensure an even finish across the entire substrate. Apply 3-4 coats of primer and wait for 15 minutes between coats to ensure each layer has dried sufficiently.
After the primer has dried, you can then apply the paint. Hold the can of spray paint about 6 inches from your trim and press the button to apply the paint. Move back and forth across the surface of your trim so you apply a thin and even coat. When you finish spraying from one direction, apply the paint from the other side of the trim. Let the first coat dry for 10 minutes before applying a second coat. Spray the second coat in the opposite direction of your first coat. For example, if you sprayed from left to right for your first coat, spray up and down for your second coat. Make sure the paint evenly coats the trim so you don’t see the plastic underneath. If you can still see the plastic, apply a third coat once the trim is dry again.
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Painting the plastic
Choosing the right paint
The type of paint you should use depends on the type of plastic you are painting. There are several types of paints available, each with unique properties, advantages, and applications. For example, you can use British Standard Aerosols, RAL Colour Aerosols, or Caliper Aerosols paint. Water-based paints are environmentally friendly, have good coverage, quick-drying times, and low odour. They are better for painting automotive plastic parts like the dashboard and door panel. Polyurethane paints come in different colours and sheens and are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to chemicals and UV rays. They are ideal for exterior painting due to their high durability and resistance properties, ensuring they remain intact even in harsh weather conditions.
Preparing the plastic for painting
The best way to prepare plastic car parts for painting is to remove them from the car's exterior. This is typically the quickest and most efficient way to prepare the plastic part or trim. Plastic trims can be loosened from the body panel by working a razor or dedicated tool between the two surfaces. If removal isn’t possible, you’ll need to mask off the surrounding bodywork to prevent overspray and achieve the best possible finish. For curved parts, use perforated trim masking tape, and for plastic parts with straight edges or slight bends, use precision masking tape.
Before you start spray painting, make sure you have all the correct tools in place and wear a mask at all times to avoid inhaling any chemicals. Get your sandpapers and work your way up by grit level to achieve a smooth surface and sand off the 'shine' of the plastic. Once sanded, clean the part with soapy water to remove dirt and excess debris caused by the sandpaper. Next, grab your primer and, wearing your mask, hold the can about 6-7 inches away from the part. Keep the can upright and start spraying before the primer passes over the part to ensure an even finish. Apply 3-4 coats of primer and wait for 15 minutes between coats to dry sufficiently. After priming, you can start spray painting the plastic part.
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Polishing the plastic
Wash the Trim
Before polishing, it is recommended to wash the trim with mild liquid soap and water to ensure the best results.
Mask the Surrounding Areas
Use masking tape to cover all areas surrounding the trim, including glass, paint, metal, and any other surfaces. This is to ensure that the polishing compound or rotary polisher does not touch anything other than the trim. Place the tape as close to the edge of the trim as possible, and make sure it is thick enough to provide a buffer between the trim and the surface you are protecting.
Prime the Foam Pad
Attach a foam pad to a rotary polisher. Prime the pad with a light- to medium-strength automotive polishing compound. Spread the compound in a circle around the pad with your gloved finger. You don't need a lot of compound, so don't worry if it soaks into the pad.
Apply the Polishing Compound
Set the rotary polisher to a medium-low speed. Start on the top of the trim if it is a vertical panel, and on one side if it is horizontal. Hold the pad against the surface of the trim and slowly cover the entire surface with the compound. Repeat this step twice.
Wipe Off Excess Compound
Use a soft cloth to remove any excess polishing compound from the trim. If scratches or marks are still visible, apply more compound with the rotary polisher.
Buff the Trim
Once you are satisfied with the appearance of the trim, it is time to buff off the polish. Run a clean foam pad across the trim a few times, using the same technique as before.
Remove Tape and Wipe Down
Remove the masking tape and use a clean, soft cloth to wipe down the trim and the surrounding area. This will remove any remaining compound, tape residue, and dust or dirt.
Final Wipe with Microfiber Cloth
Finally, grab a fresh microfiber cloth and wipe the trim down 2-3 times to ensure that none of the polishing compounds dries on the trim. If the tape leaves any residue, wipe it away with the cloth.
Additional Tips:
- It is recommended to use a small foam pad attachment, around 2-3 inches in diameter, as it will be easier to handle and less likely to disturb the masking tape.
- To avoid residue from the plastic polish, use a light grit polish intended for plastic, which will not leave a chalky finish.
- If you notice any dried compound residue later, try to remove it with mild soap and water, a toothbrush, or a magic eraser.
- If you get paint buffing compound on the plastic trim, you can use the same methods mentioned above to remove it.
- Repeat this process annually or bi-annually to keep scratches from developing on your trim. Regular cleaning of the trim may extend the time between polishes.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to remove the plastic part from the car's exterior. This can be done by working a razor or a dedicated tool between the plastic part and the body panel. If removal is not possible, mask off the surrounding bodywork to prevent overspray.
You will need paint, sandpaper, a mask, primer, lacquer, and a microfiber polishing cloth.
The type of paint depends on the type of plastic being painted. Some options include British Standard Aerosols, RAL Colour Aerosols, and Caliper Aerosols. Polyurethane paints are a good choice for exterior plastic parts due to their durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions.
First, sand the surface to remove any imperfections and create a smooth surface. Clean the surface with soapy water to remove any dirt or debris. Apply 3-4 coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry for about 15 minutes. Then, apply the paint in thin, even coats, working your way back and forth across the surface. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Regularly wash, polish, and wax your car, including the plastic trim. Plastic trim can become damaged, faded, and oxidized, so it is important to give it attention during your car care routine. You can use a plastic polish to clean and protect the trim, removing any scratches or abrasions.
Gaining knowledge about treating car exterior painted plastic can help car owners maintain the aesthetics and functionality of their vehicles.
