Alexei Volkov
Car owners have different opinions on whether protectant is necessary on car plastic. Some say that it is unnecessary and only makes the plastic shiny, attracting dust. However, others argue that it is essential to protect the plastic from UV damage and fading. There are various products available on the market, such as CarPro Dlux, Gyeon Trim, and Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, which can help restore and protect car plastic. These products can enhance the appearance of a vehicle and prevent the need for more intensive repairs in the future.
Is protectant necessary on car plastic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To restore and renew plastic, rubber, or vinyl |
| Protects against | Fading, cracking, and oxidation |
| Application | Spraying it on and wiping it off |
| Results | Deep, dark black look |
| Protection duration | Six months |
| Protection against water | Hydrophobic formula keeps water beading off the surface |
| UV protection | Yes |
| Best UV protection | Garage |
| Protectant products | CarPro Dlux, Gyeon Trim, McKee's Trim Restorer, Wolfgang Exterior Trim Sealant, 303 Aerospace Protectant, Gyeon Preserve, CarGuys Plastic Restorer, Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer, Lithium Trim Restorer & Protectant, Chemical Guys Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic Dressing, Cerakote |
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What You'll Learn
The benefits of plastic protectant
Plastic protectants are a great way to keep your car's plastic trim looking brand new. Over time, plastic trim can fade, discolour, and turn chalky, or even become brittle and prone to breakage. Plastic protectants can help prevent this deterioration and keep your car looking its best.
One of the main benefits of plastic protectants is their ability to provide UV protection. The sun's UV rays can cause car plastic trim to fade and discolour, but a protectant can create a barrier that shields the plastic from these harmful rays. This is especially important if your car is often exposed to direct sunlight or if you live in an area with high UV intensity.
Another advantage of plastic protectants is their ability to restore and renew plastic trim. If your car's plastic trim is already showing signs of fading or discolouration, a protectant can help to restore its original colour and shine. Some protectants, like CarGuys' Plastic Restorer, are specifically formulated to boost longevity and can last for months without needing to be reapplied.
Plastic protectants can also help to repel water and prevent streaking. When it rains, water can leave ugly streaks down the side of your car, but a hydrophobic formula will cause water to bead off the surface of the trim, keeping your car looking clean and shiny.
In addition to these benefits, some plastic protectants can also provide a deep, dark black look that is often desired for car trim. Products like Lithium Trim Restorer & Protectant are designed to work specifically on black plastic and black trim, enhancing the colour and providing a finish that is unlike anything else on the market.
Overall, plastic protectants offer a range of benefits that can help to maintain the appearance and longevity of your car's plastic trim. By providing UV protection, restoring discoloured plastic, repelling water, and enhancing the colour, plastic protectants can keep your car looking its best for longer.
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Protecting against UV damage
The sun's UV rays can cause car plastic trim to fade and turn grey and chalky over time. This can be prevented by using a trim protectant.
One option for protection against UV damage is to store your car in a garage. One user states that this is the best form of UV protection, and that no chemical will come close to providing the same level of protection.
However, if storing your car in a garage is not an option, there are many products available that can provide UV protection for your car's plastic trim. It is recommended to use these products right from the start when you buy a new vehicle, as this will prevent any deterioration or discolouration in the trim.
There are many different products available for UV protection, including:
- Gyeon Preserve
- 303 Aerospace Protectant
- CarPro Dlux
- Gyeon Trim
- McKee's 37 Trim Restorer
- Sonus Trim and Motor Kote
- Wolfgang Exterior Trim Sealant
- Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer
- Carfidant's Lithium Trim Restorer & Protectant
- Chemical Guys Vinyl, Rubber and Plastic Dressing
When applying these products, it is important to thoroughly clean and dry the surface area first. It is also important to stay out of the sun, as the UV rays can cause the trim to fade.
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The best products for plastic protection
Protecting your car's plastic trim is essential to maintaining its appearance and preventing deterioration. Here are some of the best products for plastic protection on the market:
Gyeon Preserve
Gyeon Preserve is a popular choice for plastic protection. It is known for its durability and ability to protect against dirt buildup. It can be used on both the interior and exterior plastics of a vehicle. Gyeon Preserve is a long-lasting product that only needs to be applied a few times a year.
303 Aerospace Protectant
303 Aerospace Protectant is another highly regarded product for plastic protection. It is suitable for both interior and exterior use and offers excellent UV protection. However, some users have noted that it is water-based and may not be as effective on exterior plastics.
CarPro Dlux
CarPro Dlux is a ceramic coating product that provides UV protection for exterior plastics, rubber, and metals. It is a popular choice for new vehicles as it helps to maintain the original appearance and protect against fading.
Wolfgang Exterior Trim Sealant
Wolfgang Exterior Trim Sealant is a reliable and long-lasting product that is suitable for both plastic and rubber trim. It is known for its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and provide a durable coating that beads water.
Trinova Plastic & Trim Restorer
Trinova Plastic & Trim Restorer is designed to shine and darken worn-out plastic, vinyl, and rubber surfaces. It protects vehicles from rain, salt, dirt, and fading. This product is an excellent choice for restoring the appearance of older vehicles.
In addition to these products, there are also various other options available, such as spray sealants, ceramic coatings, and dedicated headlight protection products. It is important to choose a product that suits your specific needs and vehicle type.
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The application process
Cleaning and Drying the Surface
Start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic surface area where you plan to apply the protectant. It is recommended to perform this step after washing your car, ensuring that the exterior plastic trim is free from dirt, dust, and other contaminants. A clean surface will allow the protectant to adhere properly and effectively. Once cleaned, make sure the surface is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Applying the Protectant
Choose a suitable protectant product, such as CarPro Dlux, Gyeon Trim, or Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer. Follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen product. Most protectants are applied similarly to car wax, using an included applicator pad or a clean cloth. Work slowly and thoroughly, ensuring that you cover the entire surface evenly. Don't rush this step, as it is crucial for achieving the best results.
Curing and Buffing
Some protectants may require time to cure before proceeding. Refer to the product instructions to determine if curing time is necessary. Once the protectant has cured or dried sufficiently, use a clean, soft microfiber cloth to buff the surface gently. This step will help remove any excess product residue and create a smooth, even finish.
Reapplication and Maintenance
For optimal results and long-lasting protection, consider reapplying the protectant periodically. The frequency of reapplication will depend on the specific product and the environmental conditions your car is exposed to. Regular maintenance will help maintain the appearance and protection of your car's plastic trim.
Additional Tips
- Store your car in a garage when possible to provide the best UV protection and reduce the need for frequent applications.
- Avoid using products with shiny finishes on the interior plastic trim, as they can attract dust and reduce visibility at night.
- Always test the protectant on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause any discolouration or adverse reactions.
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Protecting plastic in older cars
Plastic car parts are a major reason why modern vehicles are lighter, more fuel-efficient, and safer. Plastic is used in seatbelts, crumple zones, windshields, mirrors, and engine covers. However, durability has long been an issue for old automobile plastic, and plastic engine parts will be nearly impossible to repair in the future.
To protect the plastic parts of your vehicle, it is important to give them special care and regular attention. Every time you wash your car, you should also wash your plastic trim and moldings. After washing and drying your vehicle, if you do not have any protective dressings on your plastic trim, you should apply a layer of protection against UV rays to prevent colour fading. You can use a microfiber applicator pad to put a fine layer of protectant over the services of your trim and molding. If you live somewhere with constant intense sunlight, you may need to apply a new layer of protectant every month. There are many products available, including Gyeon Trim, Gyeon Preserve, 303 Aerospace Protectant, and McKee's Trim Restorer.
If your plastic trim and moldings have already been damaged and faded in colour, there are plenty of restoring products available. Most light discolouration can be fixed with a standard restoration product, but there are also products infused with dyes for more severe cases.
While it is important to protect your plastic car parts, it is worth noting that no chemical UV protectant will be as effective as storing your car in a garage.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, protectant is necessary to prevent plastic from fading and cracking.
Popular protectants include Gyeon Preserve, 303 Aerospace Protectant, CarPro Dlux, Gyeon Trim, McKee's Trim Restorer, and Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer.
Most protectants are applied like car wax, using an included applicator or cloth. A second pass is then made with a clean cloth to even the finish and remove any residue.
The frequency of application depends on the product and the condition of the plastic. Some products may only require one application, while others may need multiple applications for the best results.
Yes, one alternative is to park the car in a garage to protect it from the sun's UV rays. Another alternative is to use vinyl or another type of covering to protect the plastic from scratches.
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