How to Fix Faded Black Trim on Your Car: A Comprehensive Guide

That faded, grey plastic trim can really make your car look older than its years. Sun exposure and UV damage are notorious culprits for degrading your car’s once-sleek black plastic accents. Fortunately, restoring that deep black luster is not only possible but also a cost-effective DIY project that can dramatically improve your vehicle’s appearance.

Understanding Your Options for Restoring Black Trim

When it comes to tackling faded black trim, you have several methods at your disposal. However, not all are created equal in terms of longevity, effectiveness, and potential risk to your vehicle. Let’s explore the common approaches:

1. The Heat Gun Method: A Temporary Fix with Potential Risks

The heat gun or torch method involves carefully applying heat to the plastic trim to bring the black color back. While it might seem like a quick fix, it’s generally not recommended for long-term restoration.

Why to avoid it:

• Short-lived results: Heating the plastic only brings the oils to the surface temporarily. The fade will inevitably return, often sooner than you’d expect.
• Plastic damage: Excessive heat can warp, melt, or further degrade the plastic, leading to a brittle texture and potential cracking over time.
• No real repair: This method doesn’t address the underlying UV damage; it merely masks the issue temporarily.
• Costly replacements: Repeatedly torching the plastic weakens it, potentially necessitating premature replacement of the trim pieces, which can be expensive depending on your car model.

2. Trim Dressings: High Maintenance and Short-Term Shine

Trim dressings are readily available and easy to apply, offering an initial visual improvement to faded trim. They work by coating the plastic with oils and polymers to darken the surface and add shine.

The downsides of trim dressings:

• Frequent reapplication: Dressings are notorious for their lack of durability. Rain, car washes, and even heavy dew can wash them away, often within 3 to 6 weeks. This requires constant reapplication to maintain the desired look.
• Streaking and staining: Many trim dressings are prone to streaking when they get wet, leaving unsightly marks down your car’s paintwork.
• Not a true restoration: Dressings are essentially cosmeticBand-aids. They don’t repair the damaged plastic or offer lasting protection against further fading.

3. RECOMMENDED: Solution Finish Trim Restorer – The Permanent Solution

For a truly effective and long-lasting solution, Solution Finish Trim Restorer stands out as the preferred method. This product is designed to penetrate the plastic, restore its original black color, and provide durable protection against future fading.

Why Solution Finish is the best choice:

• Permanent restoration: Unlike dressings or heat guns, Solution Finish works to restore the plastic at a molecular level, bringing back the original pigment and creating a lasting black finish.
• Long-lasting results: A single application of Solution Finish can keep your trim looking new for 8 months or more. Subsequent applications can extend this period even further, as it actively repairs the damaged plastic.
• Easy application: The application process is straightforward and can be done by anyone with basic car detailing knowledge.
• Professional-grade results: Solution Finish is a favorite among professional detailers for its exceptional performance and durability.

Solution Finish Black Plastic Restorer example photo

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Restore Black Plastic Trim with Solution Finish

Restoring your car’s black plastic trim with Solution Finish is a simple process that yields impressive results. Follow these three easy steps:

Step 1: Thoroughly Clean the Plastic Trim

Preparation is key to achieving optimal results. Start by washing the plastic trim to remove dirt, grime, and any previous product residue. For the best possible surface, use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to ensure the plastic is completely clean and free of any oils, waxes, or silicones. This step ensures Solution Finish can properly penetrate and bond with the plastic.

Step 2: Apply Solution Finish Trim Restorer

Shake the Solution Finish bottle well before use. Apply a small amount of the product to a microfiber applicator pad or a foam applicator. Work in a shaded area and on a cool surface for best results.

Apply a thin, even coat of Solution Finish onto the plastic trim, working in manageable sections. Ensure you cover the entire faded area. Allow the solution to penetrate the plastic for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Wipe Off Excess and Allow to Dry

After allowing the Solution Finish to penetrate, use a clean, dry microfiber towel to gently buff off any excess product. Wipe away any product that may have gotten onto painted surfaces or glass immediately.

Allow the treated plastic trim to dry and cure for at least 6 hours, ideally longer, before exposing it to water or washing the car. This curing time allows the Solution Finish to fully bond and achieve maximum durability.

Essential Tips for Using Solution Finish

To ensure you get the best and longest-lasting results from Solution Finish Trim Restorer, keep these tips in mind:

• Work in the shade: Direct sunlight and hot surfaces can cause the product to dry too quickly and may affect its performance.
• Ensure good ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Wear protection: Solution Finish can stain clothing and skin, so wear gloves and eye protection during application.
• Clean thoroughly with IPA: Isopropyl alcohol (70-90%) is crucial for removing any prior treatments or contaminants that could hinder Solution Finish’s effectiveness.
• Apply thin coats: A little Solution Finish goes a long way. Thin, even coats are more effective than thick, heavy applications.
• Allow penetration time: Give the product a few minutes to penetrate the plastic before wiping off the excess.
• Avoid washing immediately: Allow ample drying time (4-6 hours minimum) before washing the treated area.
• Don’t use on painted or glass surfaces: Solution Finish is designed for plastic trim. If it gets on painted or glass surfaces, wipe it off immediately with a clean towel.

Enhance Longevity with Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer

For ultimate protection and extended life of your restored trim, consider using Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer. This product is specifically formulated to provide a UV-protective layer over plastic trim, preventing future fading and degradation.

Benefits of Solution Finish Over The Top:

• Superior UV protection: Shields plastic from harmful UV rays, the primary cause of fading.
• Extends treatment life: When used over Solution Finish Trim Restorer, it significantly prolongs the restored black finish.
• Standalone protectant: Can be used on new or well-maintained plastic trim to prevent fading from the start.
• Layerable protection: Additional coats can be applied for increased UV protection.
• Long-lasting: A single application provides protection for approximately 3 months.

By following these guidelines and using Solution Finish products, you can effectively and permanently fix faded black trim on your car, restoring its appearance and protecting it for the long haul.