Begin by thoroughly washing your vehicle and then clean the plastic trim with Dawn dish soap to remove oils and contaminants. Use a soft bristle brush to ensure a deep clean
After cleaning, ensure the trim and the surrounding areas are completely dry. Compressed air can be used to blow water out of crevices to avoid any water-related disruptions during the restoration process
When the trim is dry, apply a plastic restorer like Cerakote Trim Restorer. Apply in layers, allowing time for each layer to dry
As an alternative, a heat gun can draw out oils in the plastic, restoring its color. This method requires careful temperature control to avoid melting the plastic
If other methods fail, repainting with specific trim paint is an option. This method requires finding the right color match and may include using a primer and clear coat for a glossy finish
Apply additional coats of the restorer as needed to achieve a streak-free, beautiful black finish
Use masking to protect areas not intended for restoration. Remove the masking after application to admire the renewed trim
Consider using products like Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer or Solution Finish Black Trim Restorer, known for their effectiveness and longevity
CTo maintain the restored look, apply protection products like TriNova Plastic & Trim Restorer on non-faded trim, as prevention is key to long-lasting results
A concise guide to DIY restoration of black plastic trim, covering preparation, drying, application of restorers, alternative methods like heat guns and repainting, and maintenance tips.