How to Permanently Restore Black Plastic Trim
Almost every car will get sun-faded, UV-damaged plastic trim. Without protection, plastic that was originally black will fade to grey. The faded trim will make your car look years older than it is
Using a plastic restorer to permanently restore black plastic trim is an easy process and a very cost effective way to improve your car's appearance.
What methods are available to restore textured trim?
Heating/Melting the Plastic with Heat Gun or Torch
Using a heat gun can restore the color of black plastic trim by bringing the oils within the plastic to the surface, thus rejuvenating its appearance. However, this method comes with significant risks and is not recommended for long-term solutions. The heat can damage the plastic, causing it to turn grey and dull again over time. Repeated heating will further deteriorate the plastic, eventually necessitating replacement of the trim. Depending on the vehicle and the manufacturer, this can become quite costly.
Applying a Trim Dressing
Trim dressings, while visually appealing, have the shortest lifespan and require significant effort to maintain. They typically last only 3-6 weeks and need to be reapplied with nearly every car wash. Additionally, most trim dressings can leave unsightly stains when they get wet and streak down the side of your vehicle.
Applying a Ceramic Trim Coating
Ceramic trim coatings can effectively restore minor fading and darken the plastic. These coatings work best when applied to new vehicles, as they help maintain the trim's pristine appearance over time.
RECOMMENDED: Use Solution Finish Trim Restorer
Our preferred method involves using Solution Finish, which effectively re-dyes the plastic trim and restores its original, brand-new black finish. After the first application your trim will stay black and looking new for approximately 8 or more months. Afterwards, a second application can last even longer, as Solution Finish Black Plastic Restorer works to fix the damaged plastic and not just dress it!
How to Permanently Restore Black Plastic Trim
What You'll Need:
• Solution Finish Trim Restorer
• 70-90% IPA or Solution Finish Trim Cleaner
• Microfiber or Foam Applicator
• Microfiber Towels
• Nitrile gloves
Step-By-Step Guide
1) Prep The Trim:
Grab some IPA or Solution Finish Trim Cleaner and a microfiber towel. Wipe down the trim thoroughly to ensure it's clean and ready for the solution finish application.
2) Apply Trim Restorer:
After ensuring the trim is clean and dry, take a microfiber applicator and apply a small amount of Solution Finish. Spread an even, thin coat over the trim. If any Solution Finish gets on your paint it can be wiped off with a microfiber towel.
3) Wipe off Excess:
Let the product penetrate the trim for 3-4 minutes. Then, using a clean microfiber towel, buff off any excess product. This will help reduce the sheen and restore the trim to its factory satin finish.
4) Protect Restored Trim (Optional):
With the trim restored, you can now apply Solution Finish Over the Top Plastic Sealer or a Ceramic Trim product. This will add UV protection to the restored trim and enhance the longevity of the Solution Finish.
By following these steps, you've successfully restored your faded trim and brought it back to like-new condition. Great job!
Helpful Tips for using Solution Finish:
• For best results, apply to a clean, cool surface in the shade.
• Use with adequate ventilation.
• Solution Finish will stain clothing and skin. Wear gloves and eye protection.
• Prior to application, use IPA 70-90% (Isopropyl Alcohol) to remove any cleaners, oils or silicones from the plastic.
• Shake bottle well and apply a small amount to applicator pad or microfiber sponge.
• Spread a thin coat over area in an even motion, covering area completely.
• Allow solution to penetrate for 3-4 minutes.
• Use a clean microfiber towel to buff off excess and wipe off glass and paint.
• For best results after using Solution Finish, do not wash treated area for 4 to 6 hours.
• Do not use on painted or glass surfaces. Wipe off immediately with a clean towel if Solution Finish gets on these areas.
• To UV protect the surface treated Solution Finish use Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer
Add More Protection with Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer
Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer protects plastic trim from harmful UV rays so the plastic doesn't fade and deteriorate. This sealant can be used as a standalone treatment on new or good-condition plastics, or used as a topper on plastics that have been restored with Solution Finish Trim Restorer.
See our comprehensive step-by-step video on how to use Solution Finish Trim Restorer and Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer.
Features of Solution Finish Over The Top Sealant:
Over The Top is a long-lasting product that protects against harmful UV rays, and doesn't need to be re-applied after every car wash.
• UV Protectant
• Protect new plastics against UV fading
• Can be used as a topper over Solution Finish Trim Restorer to enhance and extend the life of the treatment
• Can be layered for additional protection
• Dries clear
• One application lasts approximately 3 months
Tips for using Solution Finish Over The Top:
• For best results, apply to a clean, cool surface in the shade
• Use with adequate ventilation
• Wear gloves and eye protection
• Use IPA 70-90% (Isopropyl Alcohol) to remove any cleaners, oils or silicones
• Shake bottle well and apply a small amount onto foam applicator
• Spread a thin coat over area in an even motion, covering area completely
• Allow to dry for 20 to 30 minutes. Additional coats can be applied 30 minutes apart. Not recommended to apply more than 3 coats.
• For best results after using Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer, do not wash treated area for at least 12 hours
• Wipe off immediately with a clean towel if solution gets on other areas that are not being treated
Where To Buy Trim Restoration & Protection Products:
At Auto Obsessed, we understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle's appearance. Our team of experts is here to help you choose the right Trim Restoration & Protection Products and provide professional application services. Contact us today to learn more and give your car the ultimate protection it deserves.
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