How to Repair Car Plastic Trim

Introduction

Car plastic trim is a great material for making car parts due to its lightweight, durability, and flexibility. However, it is prone to damage from exposure to the elements, including the sun's UV rays, rain, and dirt.

Over time, this damage can lead to fading, cracking, and discolouration of the plastic trim meaning it could need a repair job. A repair to a car plastic trim can be an easy and cost-effective solution to restore the look of your car.

Common Causes of Damage to Car Plastic Trim

There are several common causes of damage to car plastic trim. Exposure to the sun's UV rays is the most common cause of damage, as it can cause fading, cracking, and discolouration of the plastic.

Rainwater and moisture can also cause damage to car plastic trim, leading to discolouration and mould growth. Dirt and debris can scratch the surface of the plastic, leaving unsightly marks.

Tools and Materials Needed for Repairing Car Plastic Trim

Before starting on the repair of the plastic car trim, you will need to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:-

• Sandpaper
• Plastic trim repair kit
• Plastic cleaner
• Microfibre cloth
• A heat gun or hairdryer.

Preparing the Car Plastic Trim for Repair

Before you repair the car plastic trim, you need to prepare the surface:-

1. First, clean the plastic trim using a plastic cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Next, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or scratches on the surface of the plastic.
3. Finally, use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm up the plastic trim, making it more flexible and easier to work with.

 

 

Repairing Scratches Or Cracks on Car Plastic Trim

If your car plastic trim has scratches or cracks, you can repair them using a plastic trim repair kit:-

1. First, apply a small amount of the repair solution to the scratch or crack using the applicator tool provided.
2. Then, use a plastic scraper to remove any excess repair solution from the surface of the plastic. Wait for the repair solution to dry before sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the repair.

Repairing Faded Car Plastic Trim

If your car plastic trim has faded, you can restore its colour using a plastic trim restorer:-

1. Apply the restorer to the surface of the plastic using a microfibre cloth, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
2. Wait for the restorer to dry before buffing the surface with a clean cloth to bring back the shine.

Polishing Car Plastic Trim

To give your car plastic trim a shiny, polished look, you can use a plastic trim polish:-

1. Apply the polish to the surface of the plastic using a microfibre cloth, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
2. Wait for the polish to dry before buffing the surface with a clean cloth to bring back the shine.

Preventing Future Damage to Car Plastic Trim

To prevent future damage to your car plastic trim, it's important to take care of it regularly in order to avoid another repair.  Follow these steps:-

• Wash your car regularly using a mild soap and water, and avoid using harsh cleaning products that can damage the plastic.
• Park your car in the shade whenever possible to protect it from the sun's UV rays.
• You can also use a plastic protectant to help protect the plastic from fading and cracking.

Conclusion

Repairing car plastic trim can be a simple and cost-effective way to restore the look of your car. Whether you're dealing with scratches, cracks, or faded plastic trim, there are many solutions available to help you repair and restore your car to its former glory.

By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can keep your car looking great for years to come.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular sandpaper to prepare the car's plastic trim for repair?

• It is recommended to use fine-grit sandpaper specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces to avoid damaging the plastic further.

2. Can I use a heat gun instead of a hairdryer to warm up the plastic trim?

• Yes, a heat gun can be used to warm up the plastic trim, but be careful not to overheat it as this can cause further damage.

3. Is it possible to repair deep cracks on a car's plastic trim?

• Deep cracks may require professional repair or replacement of the plastic trim.

4. How often should I apply plastic protectant to my car plastic trim?

• It's recommended to apply plastic protectant every 3-6 months to help protect the plastic from fading and cracking.

5. Can I use regular car wax on my car plastic trim?

• No, it's recommended to use a plastic trim restorer or polish specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Regular car wax may not be suitable for use on plastic and may cause damage.

6. How much does it cost to repair a plastic car trim?

• The cost to repair a plastic car trim can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the specific make and model of the car. Generally, small scratches and dents can be repaired relatively inexpensively, typically costing between £50-£150. However, if the damage is more extensive, such as a large crack or deep gouges, the cost can increase significantly.  In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire trim piece rather than attempting to repair it. It's best to take your car to a reputable auto body shop for an estimate, as they can provide a more accurate quote based on the specific damage and type of vehicle.

Get in touch for professional Car Trim Repairs

If your car or vehicle requires a repair to the plastic trim, then bring it to our car body shop in Radcliffe near Manchester and our professional technicians will take care of it for you.  Or for your convenience, we offer a fully mobile service and can come to you. We cover the whole of Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cheshire, Merseyside and Yorkshire.

If you’d like to get a price for our professional car trim repair service, then please get in touch with us now on 0161 667 0919 or by filling out our quick quote form to get a free, no-obligation quotation.

We have lots of 5 star reviews on Google from happy customers, so please feel free to check out our reviews.

Or contact our team to arrange a time to bring your vehicle in for an estimate. We look forward to restoring your vehicle and getting you back on the roads!