How to Restore Black Plastic on Your Car: Methods, Tips, & Tricks

You can restore the black plastic on your car using Plastic Restorer Products, Heat Gun Method, Repainting the Trim, and DIY Household Solutions.

Ever notice how the black plastic trim on your car starts to look more like a dull grey mess over time? 

Fortunately, you don’t need to live with faded plastic trim forever. In this guide, I’ll show you how to restore black plastic on your car, bringing back that fresh, deep black look it had when it was new.

Restoring black plastic trim isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about maintaining the value of your vehicle. Faded plastic can make a car look older than it is, which might not sit well if you’re planning to sell it anytime soon. 

In this guide, I’ll discuss several methods for restoring black plastic on your car. Whether you prefer DIY (Do It Yourself) solutions using household items or looking for professional-grade products, we’ve got you covered. From using heat guns to specialized plastic restorers, you’ll find a method that suits your needs and budget​. Read on as you find out!

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Understanding Why Black Plastic Fades

Have you ever wondered why the sleek black plastic on your car gradually turns into a dull, chalky mess? The main culprit here is UV(Ultraviolet Light) exposure. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the chemical bonds in the plastic, causing it to lose its original colour and turn grey. This process, known as oxidation, essentially dries out the plastic, stripping away the oils that keep it looking fresh and new.

Another factor contributing to fading is environmental exposure. Your car’s plastic trim constantly faces harsh conditions like road grime, salt, and pollutants. These elements accelerate the wear and tear, making the plastic look worn out faster. 

Quality also plays a very significant role. Different manufacturers use varying grades of plastic, so cheaper plastics tend to degrade more quickly than higher-quality materials.

Age is also a significant factor. As your car gets older, the plastic parts naturally degrade. This is unavoidable but can be managed with proper care and maintenance. 

The accumulation of contaminants like dirt and grime over time also plays a part. If unchecked, these substances can embed into the plastic, making it look aged and worn.

Preparing for Restoration

Are you ready to get that black plastic on your car looking fresh again? Awesome! But before you restore black plastic on car,  you must ensure the plastic trim is prepped correctly. This step is crucial to ensure the restoration products can do their job effectively. Here’s how to get your trim ready for a makeover.

Step 1: Clean the Trim

First, you must eliminate all the dirt, grime, and whatever else has accumulated on the plastic. Use a pH-neutral car shampoo or an all-purpose cleaner. 

A good scrubbing with a detailing brush will help dislodge any stubborn dirt from the trim’s tiny grooves and textured surfaces. Make sure you rinse thoroughly and dry the area with a microfiber cloth​​.

Step 2: Decontaminate the Surface

After the initial wash, it’s time to get serious about decontaminating the plastic. You might need a plastic cleaner or a degreaser like Dawn dish soap, which removes oils and other contaminants that could interfere with restoration. Again, use a soft brush to work the cleaner into the surface and then rinse off thoroughly​​.

Step 3: Dry the Trim Completely

Once you’ve washed and decontaminated the trim, it’s essential to ensure it’s scorched. Any leftover moisture can mess up the restoration process. Use a microfiber towel to dry the area, and if you have access to compressed air, blow out any water trapped in the crevices. 

This step ensures that no hidden moisture could prevent the restorer from adhering correctly, which is necessary ​ to restore black plastic on car.

Step 4: Sanding (If Needed)

You might need to sand it lightly if your black plastic trim is heavily oxidised or has many surface imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface gently. This will help the restorer penetrate better and give you an even finish. After sanding, clean off the dust and dry the trim again​.

Step 5: Tape Off Surrounding Areas

When it comes to the processes on how to restore black plastic on car, this particular step is very crucial, and it involves using masking tape to cover the edges where the plastic meets the paint. This will help you apply the product more precisely and prevent any unwanted residue on your paintwork​​.

Step 6: Choose the Right Restoration Product

Now that your trim is prepped, it’s time to pick the right product to restore black plastic on your car. Several excellent options exist, like Cerakote Trim Coat, Gtechniq C4, and Solution Finish. Each has its application process and benefits, so choose one that suits your needs. Make sure to follow the product instructions carefully for the best results​.

Restoration Methods

A. Using Plastic Restorer Products

Plastic restorer products are the most popular and effective way to restore black plastic on your car. These products are explicitly designed to return faded plastic’s original colour and shine. Let’s break down the process:

Cleaning and Preparation:

1. Clean the Trim: 

Start by thoroughly washing the plastic trim with a pH-neutral car shampoo or an all-purpose cleaner. Use a soft bristle brush to scrub away dirt and grime, getting into all the nooks and crannies. This step is crucial because any remaining dirt will prevent the restorer from adhering correctly.

After cleaning, rinse the trim thoroughly to remove all cleaning agents and let it dry completely. You can speed up this process with a microfiber towel or compressed air to blow out water from crevices. Ensure the trim is completely dry to avoid trapping moisture under the restorer, which can lead to uneven application and poor results​.

2. Apply Plastic Restorer:

Once the trim is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the plastic restorer. Products like CarPro PERL, Gtechniq C4, and Cerakote Ceramic Trim Coat are excellent. Each product has its application method, but generally, you will use a microfiber applicator pad to apply the restorer.

• CarPro PERL: This product is versatile and easy to use. Simply apply a small amount to the applicator pad and spread it evenly over the trim. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then buff off any excess with a clean microfiber towel. CarPro PERL provides UV protection and a slight sheen but needs reapplication every few months​​.
•  Gtechniq C4: This is a more permanent solution, forming a chemical bond with the plastic that can last up to two years. It requires meticulous application. 

Apply a few drops to an applicator pad and spread it evenly over the trim. Ensure complete coverage and allow it to cure according to the product instructions. Gtechniq C4 is excellent for long-term results but requires precise preparation and application​.

• Cerakote Ceramic Trim Coat: Known for its durability, this ceramic coating can last up to 200 washes or two years. It’s applied similarly to other restorers but offers a more permanent solution with a non-greasy finish and excellent UV protection. Apply using pre-moisturized wipes included in the kit, ensure even coverage, and allow it to cure​​.

3. Buff and Cure:

• After applying the restorer, gently buff the area with a clean microfiber towel to ensure a smooth, non-greasy finish. Buffing helps to spread the product evenly and remove any excess. Allow the product to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Curing time can vary but typically involves letting the product sit for a specified time to bond properly with the plastic​. This method is one of the best ways to restore black plastic on cars.

B. Heat Gun Method

The heat gun method applies heat to the plastic to bring the oils in the material to the surface, restoring its original colour. This method can be effective but requires caution to avoid damaging the plastic.

Steps:

1.     Preparation: 

Park your car in the sun to pre-warm the plastic trim. This helps make the process quicker and more effective.

2.     Heat Application:

Using a medium-low setting on your heat gun, gently heat the plastic trim. Move the gun methodically over the surface, avoiding prolonged focus on any one spot to prevent melting the plastic. The trim darkens as the oils are brought to the surface.

3.     Buffing:

Once the plastic’s oils come to the surface, buff the trim with a microfiber towel to even out the finish and remove any excess oils.

Considerations:

• The heat gun method is not a permanent fix; the oils will eventually dry out again. Additionally, overuse can make the plastic brittle, leading to potential damage.
• Always use a lower heat setting and take your time to avoid overheating any part of the trim​​.

C. Repainting the Trim

Repainting the plastic trim is a more permanent solution but requires more effort and precision. This method involves using trim-specific paint to restore the colour.

Steps:                  

1.     Clean and Prepare:

Clean the trim thoroughly and ensure it is scorched. An adhesion promoter primer will help the paint bond better with the plastic.

2.     Painting:

Use a trim paint such as Rust-Oleum or Duplicolor. These paints are designed to adhere to plastic and provide a durable finish. Apply the paint in even layers, allowing proper drying time between coats to avoid runs and drips.

3.     Finishing:

After painting, let the trim cure entirely before exposing it to harsh conditions. Depending on the product used and the environmental conditions, this may take several hours to a few days.

Tips:      

• Ensure even coverage to avoid streaks and ensure a uniform appearance.
• Use painter’s tape to mask off surrounding areas to prevent overspray on your car’s paintwork​.

D. DIY Household Items

You can use household items like olive oil or peanut butter for a quick and temporary fix. These methods can temporarily restore the plastic by adding oils.

Steps:

1.     Apply:

Apply a small amount of olive oil or peanut butter onto the plastic trim using a microfiber towel. Rub in a circular motion to cover the entire surface.

2.     Buff:

After a few minutes, buff the area with a clean towel section to remove excess oil and even out the finish.

Considerations:

• This method is temporary and needs to be repeated frequently as the oils will wash off over time.
• It can also attract dust and dirt, quickly making the trim dirty again​.

Maintaining the Restored Trim

Once you’ve chosen how to restore black plastic on car, maintaining it is crucial to prolong the results. Here are some maintenance tips:

1. Regular Cleaning: 

• Clean the trim regularly using gentle soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the protective layer.
• Use a soft brush to scrub the trim gently, followed by rinsing and drying with a microfiber towel​​.

2. Protective Coatings:

• Apply UV protective sealants periodically to prevent further oxidation and fading. Products like CarPro PERL or dedicated UV protectants can help maintain the trim’s appearance.
• Apply a trim restorer regularly to keep the plastic-looking fresh. This will help replenish any oils that may have dried out due to sun exposure and environmental factors​​.

3. Routine Detailing:

• Trim maintenance should be included in your regular car detailing schedule. This ensures that the trim remains in good condition and helps to catch any fading early, allowing you to address it before it becomes severe.
• Consider using a ceramic coating on the trim for added protection and longevity. Ceramic coatings provide a durable barrier against UV rays and environmental contaminants​​.

Conclusion

Restoring black plastic trim on your car involves choosing the right method and products, thorough preparation, and regular maintenance. Whether you opt for professional plastic restorers, the heat gun method, repainting, or even DIY household solutions, each approach has its benefits and considerations. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively restore and maintain the black plastic on your car, keeping it looking new and well-maintained for years to come.