Fade and deterioration is a common reality for plastic details and trims. This is because of their sun exposure. With enough UV rays on them, they will age through photodegradation and melt through thermal degradation.
They can also degrade through oxidation, although they won't rust like wet metal. There are polymers in your vehicle that can resist these compromising elements due to their mechanical functions.
Without regular protection and maintenance, your plastic parts will naturally deteriorate, hence the need for these polymers found in plastic care products and dressing.
Plastic Trim Protection by Applying Dressing
- Restorers and Other Plastic Care Products: In order to keep the vulnerable parts of your car from degrading to the point of needing replacement, you can use restorers to extend their life and rejuvenate them like they're brand new. They can make your plastic end up with showroom quality shine while also making the dark surfaces seem sleeker than before. That's how you know they're working. Some restorers are reminiscent of leather conditioners that conditions the material in order to let out their emollient oils, only this time it's for use in plastic material.
- Applying UV-Shielding Plastic Care Dressing: You can apply plastic trim dressing to protect the trim. The dressing blocks off the UV rays while it lasts and at the same time keeps your plastic shiny and protected, like wax atop your paint finish. You should use a microfiber polishing cloth or foam pad in order to apply it to your trim and other plastic areas like your dashboard. Microfiber works best for applying the dressing in small surfaces while the foam pad is good for large areas. Don't use too much. Use only a small amount.
- The Hallmarks or Properties of Excellence in Dressing Products: Look for plastic care dressing products that are spreadable and comes in a highly concentrated silicone gel. This way, you won't end up using the product all at once accidentally. You can control the amounts you use. Wipe the dressing over the trims, wait a few minutes, and then wipe the residue away. Clean it off ASAP. Some products produce a wetter look while others are waxier.
- Plastic Trim Protection by Applying Dyes: You can also protect your black trims by applying dye unto it or a combination of dressing and dye. This type of dressing works just like a shoe polish product on leather shoes or tire black on your rubber tires. The dye covers up the scuff marks while at the same time reactivating the pliability of the plastic trim to when it was first installed. This will give you darkness longevity and a durable shine that can withstand rain and snow.