How To Restore Car Black Plastic Trim?

 

Restoring faded black plastic trim on cars can make a world of difference in the overall appearance of your car.

Over time, plastic trim can become sun-bleached, weathered, and dull. But with the right techniques and products, you can easily bring it back to life. 

As a professional detailer, I’ve tried various methods and products, and I’ve learned which ones truly work. In this guide, I’ll share the best tips and tricks, including my top recommendation, which you can find in our shop.

Table of Contents:

  • How To Restore Car Black Plastic Trim?
  • Understanding the Issue
  • Top Products and Methods for Black Trim Restoration
  • Tips for Long-Lasting Results
  • Final Words

Understanding the Issue

Plastic trim, particularly on the exterior of your car, is constantly exposed to the elements. UV rays, rain, road salts, and pollution can all take a toll on the plastic, causing it to fade, oxidise, and lose its natural colour. 

The key to restoring your trim is to rehydrate the plastic and bring back its original deep pigment.

Top Products and Methods for Black Trim Restoration

There are a number of products and techniques available to restore black plastic trim. Here’s a rundown of the most effective options based on my experience and insights from the detailing communities at r/Cars, r/AutoDetailing, and Detailing World.

1. Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer

Without a doubt, one of the best products I recommend is the Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer. Although a bit expensive, this product is a favourite in the detailing world for a reason—it’s designed to also provide long-lasting protection.

Gtechniq C4 plstic trim restorer

The Gtechniq C4 bonds to the plastic, offering a permanent solution that doesn’t wash away with rain or car washes.

How to Use It:

  • Clean the trim thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, and previous products. I recommend using a trim cleaner or degreaser.
  • Apply the Gtechniq C4 using a microfiber applicator or cloth. Be sure to cover the entire trim surface evenly.
  • Allow it to cure for a few hours before exposing it to water or moisture.

What I love about this product is that it lasts for months—no need to reapply every few weeks like some other products. The finish is matte, providing a natural look that doesn’t appear overly glossy. Plus, it offers UV protection to prevent further fading, which is a huge bonus in the UK’s unpredictable weather.

2. Koch-Chemie Plast Star PSS Silicone-Free Exterior Plastic & Rubber Care

Another excellent option for restoring black plastic trim is the Koch-Chemie Plast Star PSS.
 Koch-Chemie Plast Star PSS
This product is perfect for those who want a high-quality trim restorer that doesn’t leave behind any greasy or sticky residue. It's especially useful for exterior plastics and rubber, providing a sleek, natural finish.

How to Use It:

  • Clean the trim area thoroughly before applying.
  • Spray a light mist of the product onto the trim or apply it using a microfiber cloth.
  • Wipe off any excess to avoid streaking, and allow the product to dry for a few minutes.

Why I Recommend It: This product provides a subtle, satin finish and is excellent for maintaining the natural look of your trim without the glossy shine some products leave behind. The silicone-free formula also ensures that it won't attract dust or dirt, making it a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance solution.

3. YumCars Dress V2 Rubber & Trim Moisturiser

For those who want a product that not only restores but also moisturises and nourishes the trim, the YumCars Dress V2 Rubber & Trim Moisturiser is an excellent choice.

YumCars Dress V2 Rubber & Trim Moisturiser

This product is designed to hydrate and protect rubber and plastic trims, preventing them from cracking and fading over time.

How to Use It:

  • Clean the trim area to remove any dirt or grime.
  • Apply the product using a microfiber cloth or applicator pad.
  • Allow it to absorb for a few minutes, then buff off any excess for an even finish.

Why I Recommend It: This product is ideal for protecting your trim against UV rays and harsh weather, ensuring long-lasting results. I’ve found that it works especially well on weathered rubber trims, making it a must-have in any detailer’s toolkit.

Here are some other plastic dressing and protection products if you’re interested in others.

4. DIY Solution: Boiled Linseed Oil and Turpentine

For those who prefer a DIY approach to restore plastic trims, a mixture of boiled linseed oil and turpentine can be a cost-effective solution. This method is widely shared on detailing forums, including Reddit, where users swear by its effectiveness.

How to Use It:

  • Mix 70% boiled linseed oil with 30% turpentine.
  • Apply the mixture to the trim using a cloth or sponge.
  • Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess.
  • Buff the trim to achieve a smooth, shiny finish.

While this solution can work well, I’ve found it doesn’t provide the same level of long-lasting protection as products that were engineered for this. It’s a good option if you’re on a budget, but you may need to reapply it more often.

5. Heat Treatment

An unconventional method I’ve experimented with is using heat to restore black plastic trim. This technique works by gently warming the plastic to help it regain its original colour.

How to Use It:

  • Use a heat gun or a hairdryer to gently warm the trim.
  • Move the heat source in a circular motion to avoid overheating one spot.
  • As the plastic warms, it will begin to darken. Once it reaches the desired colour, stop applying heat and let it cool.

This method can be effective, but it requires caution. Overheating the plastic can cause damage, so it’s important to practise on a small area first.

Here’s a demonstration on YouTube on how to use this method by the Gander Flight channel. 

Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Once you’ve restored your black plastic trim, there are a few things you can do to ensure it stays looking fresh for longer:

  • Regular Cleaning: Clean your trim regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up. I recommend using a gentle soap solution or a dedicated trim cleaner.
  • UV Protection: Always use a product that offers UV protection to prevent future fading.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using petroleum-based products, as they can dry out and damage plastic trim over time.
  • Reapply as Needed: Depending on the product you use, you may need to reapply it every few months. This is especially true for products exposed to the sun or harsh weather conditions.

Final Words

Restoring black plastic trim doesn’t have to be difficult, and with the right products, you can achieve impressive results. In my experience as a detailer, I highly recommend the Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer for its long-lasting results and UV protection. 

Whether you choose a commercial product or a DIY solution, the key is to clean the trim thoroughly and apply the product carefully. By following these methods and tips, you’ll be able to restore your car’s trim and keep it looking great for months to come.

 

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Tahmid Rashid

Tahmid Rashid

Tahmid Rashid (the one in the middle) is one of the three owners of CA Detailing, alongside his trusted cousin-brothers. A long-time car enthusiast, Tahmid founded Carbon Accents, a car styling store, in 2019. His passion for cars and maintaining his own BMW 1 Series (F20 M135i) led him to dive into the world of detailing.

With over eight years of experience developing products in another industry, Tahmid noticed that customers across the UK were often purchasing low-quality car detailing products. Driven to make a difference, he co-founded CA Detailing in 2021. His goal is to provide high-quality products at reasonable prices and to share his knowledge so that customers can make the most informed decisions when buying detailing products.

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