Black plastic trim gives your car a sleek, polished look—but over time, exposure to sunlight, pollution and harsh weather can cause it to fade and lose its shine. With the right cleaning and restoration techniques, you can revive its original appearance without costly replacements.
Here’s how to clean car exterior plastic trim and restore its like-new finish.
1. Steps on how to clean car plastic exterior
Begin by assessing your trim’s condition. Is it dirty or has it lost its colour and turned grey from sun exposure?
a. How to perform basic cleaning
A thorough water wash will remove surface dirt before deeper cleaning. Here’s how:
- Rinse the plastic trim with water
- Apply car shampoo using a soft brush or cloth
- For tougher dirt, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes
- Scrub gently in circular motions
- Rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth
b. How to remove scuff marks from plastic car exterior
To remove stains and scuff marks, try these methods:
- Apply white vinegar with a cloth
- Rub gently on the scuffed areas
- For stubborn marks, use a magic eraser (test on a small area first)
- Rinse and dry thoroughly
c. How to restore faded plastic trim
When your trim has turned grey, it needs restoration. Here’s how:
- Clean the trim thoroughly
- Apply a trim restorer with a foam applicator
- Buff the surface gently
- Apply a second coat if needed
- Park your car in the shade or use a car cover to prevent fading and dust.
2. FAQs
1. Can I use olive oil on faded plastic trim?
While it may work temporarily, it attracts dust and can make things worse. Use car manufacturer-specified trim restorers only.
2. How to remove scratches from black plastic car exterior?
Light scratches can be reduced with fine-grit sandpaper and heat from a hairdryer.
3. How often should I clean the plastic trim on my car?
Monthly cleaning prevents build-up and makes maintenance easier.
3. Conclusion
Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your car looking great and ensure it runs efficiently. In addition to at-home care, consider routine servicing to maintain performance and safety on the road. For optimal protection, always follow traffic rules, adhere to speed limits and carry essential documents, including valid third party car insurance.
Additionally, comprehensive car insurance offers broader financial protection against accidents, theft, natural disasters and more—giving you peace of mind on every drive.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
Ref:
https://www.drbeasleys.com/blog/2024/06/17/how-to-clean-restore-black-plastic-trim-on-cars
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Car-Plastic
https://www.armorall.com/help-advice/how-to-clean-your-cars-exterior-rubber-vinyl-and-canvas/
https://detailxperts.com/what-is-exterior-car-trim-and-how-to-clean-it/