Key Takeaways:
- Safety First: Following safety guidelines when performing any detailing work on your vehicle is crucial.
- Selecting the Right Restoration Products: Using specialized restorers, such as those from Chemical Guys, ensures a long-lasting restoration by protecting and rejuvenating trim.
- Post-Restoration Maintenance: Regular cleaning and following correct techniques are essential for maintaining results and extending the restored trim's aesthetic and functional lifespan.
Cars protect you from the elements. So, why not return the favor?
If you’re a Jeep owner, your vehicle may experience faded black plastic fender flares or have noticed someone with neglected exterior trim. Anytime you expose your car to the elements, you risk fading, damaging, and cracking plastic, rubber, and vinyl trim pieces.
This how-to guide explains how to restore a deep shine to dried-out trim using just two Chemical Guys products.
Prepare Your Gear
You only need a few products to restore your trim to its original, shiny look.
- Nonsense All Purpose Cleaner: Stains, grime, grease, and dirt don’t stand a chance against Nonsense! This strong yet gentle super cleaner can be used on most surfaces, including hard plastic exterior trims, sensitive carpets, and fabric surfaces. Imagine the most concentrated cleaning power squeezed into a single bottle.
- Tire+Trim Gel: This premium oil-based gel deeply nourishes and moisturizes faded trim. It can be applied precisely and evenly, finishes dry-to-the-touch, and won’t sling or run off surfaces.
- Exterior Detailing Brush: Get in all the nooks and crannies of textured trim with a dedicated detailing brush.
- Microfiber Towels: Finish the job with these soft microfiber towels that absorb moisture while buffing away excess residue.
- Microfiber Applicator: The best tool for applying our Tire+Trim Gel.
- Protective Gloves: You don’t want these chemicals all over your bare hands, so grab a pair of gloves as a safety measure.
- Water-Based Dressing (Optional): Pick your favorite Chemical Guys water-based dressing like Silk Shine, VRP, Tire Kicker, Natural Shine, you name it. These are great for future maintenance.
- ProBlow Professional Handheld Dryer & Blower (Optional): Dry your trim fast with zero streaks and get all those hard-to-reach places with a ProBlow.
Safety Precautions During Restoration
Restoring your car's faded black plastic trim to its former glory is rewarding and intensely satisfying. Still, it's paramount to approach this DIY project with safety at the forefront. Here are some essential safety precautions to keep in mind during the restoration process:
- Wear Protective Gear: Before you dive into the restoration process, gear up for safety. Gloves are a must to protect your hands from chemicals and abrasives.
- Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Restoring black plastic trim is all fun and games until those chemical fumes hit. Save your nose (and brain cells) by working outside or in a ventilated garage. Good airflow is your BFF here!
- Read Product Labels Thoroughly: All Chemical Guys products include detailed instructions for safe and effective use. Before you begin, read through these instructions or check out our YouTube channel to follow along with our video guides. Those tutorial videos will ensure you achieve the best results and understand any specific safety recommendations related to the product.
- Keep a Clean Workspace: A clutter-free workspace is a safe workspace. Keep your working area free of unnecessary tools and objects that could cause trips or falls. Organize your materials so you can easily reach what you need without stretching over, possibly knocking over chemicals or tools.
- Store Products Safely: Properly storing your detailing products is essential. Keep products tightly sealed when not in use and out of reach from children and pets. Some chemicals must be stored in specific conditions to prevent degradation or increased risk of combustion, so always check the storage recommendations.
- Be Prepared for Spills: Accidents happen, so it's best to be prepared. Have a spill kit, absorbent materials(sawdust or kitty litter), a containment system, and protective gear for clean-up. Knowing how to clean up spills safely can prevent skin irritations and protect the environment.
- First Aid Kit: Keeping a kit nearby is always a good practice. In case of an accidental splash or cut, immediate access to basic first aid can make a big difference. If you're working with particularly volatile substances, include an eyewash solution.
Step-By-Step Guide to Faded Plastic Trim Restoration
Now that we have prepped gear and taken safety precautions, let’s get to the restoration.
Step 1: Scrub the Surface Clean
Spray down your work area, whether it’s faded black trim or plastic fender flares, with Nonsense and give it a nice, all-over clean. Scrub with an Exterior Detailing Brush—circular, back-and-forth, and up-and-down motions all work. A brush is essential for textured fender flares like those on Jeeps because it gets into all those nooks and crannies for a deep clean.
Many people think washing their car with soap and water is good enough for their plastic trim, but it’s not. Textured surfaces like this have dirt, grime, and contaminants embedded in small, textured grooves that you won’t be able to clean with just a basic towel.
Step 2: Dry the Surface
Set down your cleaner and brush, and grab a clean microfiber towel to wipe off the Nonsense residue. At this point, your trim should look moisturized but still faded. You can grab a ProBlow to ensure the surface is 100% dry. This will allow the trim gel to adhere correctly.
Step 3: Begin Restoring With Tire+Trim Gel
Now, we can move on to restoring. Grab your Tire+Trim Gel and a clean microfiber applicator. Right now, we’re going for heavy restoration, so you want a thick, viscous, oil-based dressing that’s gonna do the best job for heavily neglected exterior trim. Apply around three drops of gel directly on your applicator. The trick with this product is that you want to work it in. Don’t just smear it around; take the time and effort to apply it correctly, and the results will be worth it. You may need to reapply more gel to the applicator as necessary as you work. Don’t be afraid to apply the product liberally.
Step 4: Remove Excess Gel With a Dry Microfiber Towel
Grab a clean, dry microfiber towel and buff off any excess. This ensures a fully dry-to-the-touch finish. After all, the last thing you want to worry about is attracting dust and debris to your surfaces, especially when they’ve been restored and look this nice.
Step 5: Touch Test
If you want to ensure your gel has been wholly buffed off, do the touch test. Start by drying off your gloves with your microfiber towel. Ensure they’re nice and dry. Glide two of your gloved fingers on the trim's surface and rub back and forth. Your fingers should come back dry. That’s how you know you’ve successfully buffed off the excess tire gel: no oil, shine, or sticky residue.
Step 6: Maintain Your Shine
Next time you wash your car, maintain it with a water-based dressing like Silk Shine, VRP, Tire Kicker, Natural Shine, or whatever else you prefer. You can use any of these dressings to maintain the beautiful look of your rejuvenated exterior trim.
As a side note, the difference between these water-based dressings and Tire+Trim Gel is that the gel is great for heavy restoration work, rejuvenating plastic, and returning it to its original condition. Products like VRP will still work for restoration but will not have the same effect as the gel.
Troubleshooting Common Restoration Mistakes
Avoid these common errors before making an irreversible mistake during your plastic trim restoration. This will help you stay on track to achieving that show-car shine.
Over-Application of Product
One of the most frequent errors in restoring black plastic trim is applying too much product. More isn't always better. Over-application can lead to a greasy or sticky finish that fails to dry correctly, attracting dust and dirt. In this sticky situation, gently remove the excess product with a microfiber cloth until the trim feels smooth.
Skipping Surface Preparation
Enthusiasm to see faded black trim return to its former glory may tempt you to stop applying restoration products. However, failing to properly clean and prepare the surface can hinder product effectiveness, leading to uneven finishes or poor adhesion. Always start with a thorough cleaning, using a gentle but effective cleaner to remove dirt, grease, or wax. Allow the trim to dry completely before proceeding with the restoration product.
Applying in Direct Sunlight
While the sun's rays might make your car's paint job look fantastic, they are less than ideal for working with restoration products. Applying products in direct sunlight can cause them to dry too quickly, preventing them from being effectively absorbed into the plastic. This can result in streaking and uneven coloration. Always apply products in the shade or a cool, covered area to ensure optimal absorption and an even, durable finish.
Not Testing the Product First
Each car and trim piece can react differently to restoration products. Before applying the product to all of your trim, it's essential to do a spot test in a small, inconspicuous area. This will help you gauge how the restoration product interacts with the plastic and ensure you’re satisfied with the results before fully committing.
Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Instructions
We get it. Sometimes, the excitement to proceed surpasses the patience to read instructions. However, each restoration product is unique, with specific application and drying time requirements. Ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions can lead to unsatisfactory results or even damage to your trim. Take a few moments to carefully read the guidelines — trust us, your car will thank you.
Final Thoughts
That’s going to do it! This two-step combo makes it easy to restore your faded plastic exterior trim. With the techniques and products we've shared, we're confident you'll achieve a gleaming, permanently restored black plastic trim that turns heads and fills you with pride every time you hit the road.
Read also:
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Restore Black Plastic Trim DIY Permanently
Is it possible to restore black plastic trim without causing damage?
Absolutely! With the right techniques and products, you can restore the black plastic trim on your vehicle without causing any harm. The key is to use products specifically designed for automotive plastics and follow the instructions carefully. Chemical Guys is here to guide you through the process with our expert tips and proven products to ensure a safe restoration.
Can I use a DIY solution like shoe polish on black plastic trim?
While reaching for household items like shoe polish might be tempting, we strongly advise against it. DIY solutions can often lead to mixed results and may even damage the trim in the long run. Automotive trim restoration requires products specifically formulated to nourish, protect, and restore plastic without harming it. For the best results, stick to quality products that guarantee long-lasting and safe restoration.
How do I maintain the black plastic trim after restoring it?
Maintaining black plastic trim is easier than you think! Regular cleaning with a gentle automotive soap and water is a great start. To prevent future fading, follow this with a water-based dressing like Silk Shine, VRP, Tire Kicker, or Natural Shine. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can scratch or damage the trim. With consistent care, your trim will continue to look freshly restored and vibrant.
Can the restoration process change the texture of the plastic trim?
When performed correctly, using the right products and methods, the restoration process should not alter the texture of your black plastic trim. High-quality restoration products like those from Chemical Guys are designed to work with the trim's original texture, restoring its color without impacting its feel. Always follow product instructions and use as directed to ensure the best outcomes.
How often should I restore my vehicle's black plastic trim?
The frequency of restoration largely depends on factors like exposure to sunlight and weather conditions. Typically, a well-maintained black plastic trim might only need a touch-up once a year to keep it looking its best. If you notice the color starting to fade or dull, it might be time for another restoration session. Remember, prevention is key—regular use of protectant products can extend the time between restorations.
Does restoring black plastic trim add value to my vehicle?
Yes, it does. Restoring the black plastic trim can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your vehicle, making it look well-maintained and more appealing. This visual improvement can positively affect your vehicle's perceived value, especially if you're considering selling it. A newer and well-cared-for car is always more attractive to potential buyers.
