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How do I keep the plastic on my car from fading?

What’s the best way to keep the plastic on my car from fading over time? I’ve had my car for about 10 years and all the plastic trim is getting old and faded. I’ve kept the body really nice, so the worn plastic parts really stand out.

avatar
Joshua Levy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Caring for your car takes time and energy, so it’s frustrating when the little details don’t hold up. Unfortunately, wear and tear are inevitable. But you can still keep the plastic on your car from fading by following these steps.
Wash the plastic bits:
  • Spray the plastic components with a mix of soap and warm water.
  • Scrub it thoroughly with a soft brush or cloth for larger pieces. Use a stiffer brush for textured areas.
  • Dry the area with a soft cloth.
Strip the protectant:
  • Spray a microfiber cloth with a cleaner like Blackfire’s all-purpose cleaner.
  • Wipe it a few times to get off older layers of wax or protectant.
  • Rinse the area and dry it with a fresh microfiber cloth.
Protect the plastic:
  • Spray the area with a plastic or rubber protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant.
  • Use a microfiber cloth or applicator pad to rub it evenly along the surface.
  • Take extra care to get in the nooks and crannies of textured pieces.
Cleaning jobs and protectants will only keep your plastic bits from fading for a few months. For best results, incorporate these steps into your
car maintenance routine
and repeat them a few times a year.
Since you’re already taking the time to clean your trim, take an extra minute to save on car insurance with
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