Restore Car’s Interior Plastics: Tips And Tricks
Plastic is a vital component of modern cars, from the exterior bumpers and trim to the interior panels, dashboards, and consoles. However, plastic is susceptible to damage from sunlight, which can cause fading, discolouration, and deterioration. Fortunately, there are several methods to restore the plastic inside your car, ranging from cleaning and using plastic restorers to more intensive processes like heat guns and refinishing with paint. In this article, we will explore the various techniques and products available to rejuvenate the plastic surfaces in your vehicle, bringing them back to their former glory.
How to Restore Plastic Inside a Car
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clean the plastic | Use an interior detailer, a multi-purpose cleaner, or an automotive interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth |
| Remove stubborn dirt | Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab |
| Treat light scratches | Buff with a mild abrasive like baking soda and water or toothpaste |
| Treat deeper scratches | Use a plastic scratch repair kit |
| Protect against UV rays | Use a UV protectant like Solution Finish Over The Top Plastic Sealer or 303 Aerospace Protectant Spray |
| Restore colour | Use a plastic restorer like Solution Finish Trim Restorer, ColorBond LVP, or Plastic Restore |
| Alternative methods | Use a heat gun to draw out oils, treat with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product, or repaint with a paint designed for automotive interiors |
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What You’ll Learn
- Cleaning plastic surfaces
- Removing scuff marks
- Repairing scratches
- Using plastic restorer
- Protecting against UV rays
Cleaning plastic surfaces
To restore the plastic inside your car, you must first clean it thoroughly. Here are some tips for cleaning plastic surfaces:
General Cleaning Tips
- Remove any debris, such as empty cups and plastic wrappers, and take out the floor mats to shake them off.
- Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to prevent scratching the plastic surfaces.
- Dust the plastic with a soft damp cloth or a soft handheld dust mop.
- For stains, apply a small amount of mild soap, laundry detergent, or plastic auto cleaner to the cloth.
- Be sure to clean intricate spaces, such as air vents and cracks in the dashboard, using a cotton swab or small detailing brush.
- It is recommended to clean your car’s interior once a month and the exterior twice a month.
Specific Methods for Restoring Faded or Dull Plastic
- Wash the plastic trim with isopropyl alcohol to ensure no residue is left behind, only bare plastic.
- Apply a plastic trim restorer or a UV protectant using a microfiber or foam applicator. Wipe off any excess product with a clean towel.
- Allow the product to dry for several hours. Some products recommend 6 hours, while others suggest 20-30 minutes.
- Reapply the product for a second coat. The second application can last even longer and may enhance the finish.
- Note that some products may need to be reapplied regularly, such as after each car wash or at least once a week.
Alternative Method Using Heat
- Use a heat gun to heat the plastic, drawing out the oils within the material.
- Always start with a clean or freshly washed surface to avoid burning contaminants into the plastic, and heat one area at a time to prevent damage.
- Treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product to make the surface darker and protect against sun and rain.
- Be cautious, as it is easy for the plastic to warp when using a heat gun.
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Removing scuff marks
One option to remove scuff marks is to use a vinegar-based cleaner. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water into a clean spray bottle and apply it to the plastic surface. Then, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.
Another option is to use a whitening toothpaste that contains baking soda or hydrogen peroxide. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to a soft cloth and rub it into the scuff mark in circular motions until it disappears. You may need to reapply for stubborn scuffs.
If the scuff marks are more severe, you can try using a heat gun to melt the plastic and essentially melt the scratch into the surrounding area. This method should be done with caution as it is easy for the plastic to warp or burn. Always start with a clean surface to avoid burning contaminants into the plastic and heat one area at a time to prevent damage. After using the heat gun, you can treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product to make the surface darker and protect against sun and rain damage.
For a short-term solution, you can use a plastic restorer or dressing to restore the colour of the plastic trim. However, these products will not repair the plastic and will eventually turn dull and grey again. They also tend to leave stains when they get wet.
If the plastic is pebbled or textured, it may be difficult to remove scuff marks completely. In this case, you can try to darken the colour with various cleaners or use a product like Chemical Guys Silk Shine to help hide the scuffs.
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Repairing scratches
Scratches on the interior plastic of your car can be frustrating, but there are several methods you can use to repair them. The first step is identifying the type of damage. Scuff marks are usually superficial and occur when an object like a shoe rubs against the plastic, transferring dirt or exterior colouring. Scratches, on the other hand, are deeper and occur when objects with sharp edges rub against or pierce the plastic.
For scuff marks, a simple cleaning with a microfiber cloth and an interior cleaner can often do the trick. Spray the cleaner onto the cloth and rub it into the surface in circular motions, then use another cloth to wipe away the dirt and excess cleaning solution.
If you’re dealing with scratches, there are a few more steps you can take. First, try using a mild abrasive like toothpaste or baking soda. Apply it to the scratch and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away with a clean, damp cloth. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a heat gun on a low setting to apply heat to the scratched area. Be careful not to linger too long in one spot to avoid damaging the plastic. After heating, treat the surface with olive oil, WD-40, or a trim restoration product to protect against further damage.
For more serious scratches or chips, you may need to sand down the area and apply a product like Plastic Restore™ or Solution Finish Trim Restorer. Always clean the area thoroughly before applying any products, and be sure to follow the instructions on the product you choose. As a last resort, you can try to find a replacement panel that matches the colour of your scratched panel online or at a local auto parts store.
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How To Restore Interior Car Plastic (Without Damaging It)
Chase is an automotive expert with years of experience in the industry. He has a passion for all things automotive, powersports, & detailing and has contributed greatly to The Car Cleaning Guide.
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Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Nate Schnell
Does the interior plastic in your car look faded, scratched, or generally tired? If so, restoring it is easier than you think and can make a huge difference in how your vehicle looks and feels. Interior plastic restoration is more than a cosmetic upgrade; it’s about maintaining your car’s overall value and ensuring a better driving experience. Whether you’re dealing with faded door panels, scratched dashboards, or dull center consoles, this guide will help you restore those surfaces to their former glory.
Why Restoring Car Interior Plastic Is Important
The interior plastic of a car doesn’t just contribute to its visual appeal—it also plays a role in preserving the vehicle’s value. Over time, plastic surfaces can fade, scratch, and accumulate grime due to sun exposure, wear and tear, and everyday use. While this may seem like a minor issue, a well-maintained interior can make your car more enjoyable to drive and increase its resale value. A clean, well-preserved cabin gives the impression that the vehicle has been cared for, which is important whether you’re keeping it for years or planning to sell.
Understanding Common Plastic Damage
Car interior plastics face several types of damage over time. Fading is one of the most common issues, caused by constant exposure to sunlight, which breaks down the pigments in the plastic. Scratches are another frequent problem, often caused by rings, keys, or sharp objects. Stains from spills, dirt, or oils can also accumulate, leaving the plastic looking grimy or discolored. Each of these issues requires a slightly different approach to restore the surface effectively.
Preparing to Restore Plastic
Before jumping into the restoration process, preparation is key. Start by thoroughly cleaning the plastic surfaces to remove any dirt, grease, or dust that could interfere with the restoration products. A good automotive interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth are perfect for this step. Avoid harsh cleaners that might damage the plastic or leave residue behind.
If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn dirt, a soft-bristled brush can help agitate the grime without scratching the surface. Be sure to let the surface dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Steps to Restore Interior Plastic
Restoring your car’s interior plastic is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s how to do it:
Clean the Surface
Thoroughly clean the plastic with an automotive cleaner and a microfiber cloth. This removes dirt, grime, and oils that could interfere with restoration products. For particularly dirty areas, scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush.
Address Scratches
For light scratches, buff the area with a mild abrasive like baking soda mixed with water or even a dab of toothpaste. Rub the mixture in with a microfiber cloth, then wipe it clean. For deeper scratches, use a plastic scratch repair kit, which typically includes a filler and color-matching compound to blend the repair seamlessly into the surrounding surface.
Apply Plastic Restorer
Plastic restorers are specially formulated to rejuvenate faded surfaces, restoring their color and luster. Apply a small amount of restorer to a clean microfiber cloth, then rub it evenly into the plastic. Pay extra attention to heavily faded or discolored areas. Allow the product to soak in for several minutes before buffing it with a dry cloth for a smooth finish.
Protect the Surface
Once the plastic has been restored, applying a UV protectant can help keep it looking great for longer. This step is especially important for surfaces exposed to direct sunlight, as UV rays are a primary cause of fading.
Alternative Restoration Methods
If a plastic restorer isn’t available, there are other methods you can use to bring back the shine and color to your car’s interior plastic.
One popular method involves using a heat gun. By carefully heating the surface, the oils in the plastic are brought to the surface, restoring its original color. However, this method requires caution, as excessive heat can warp or damage the plastic. It’s best to test this technique on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Painting is another option for severely faded or damaged plastic. Using a paint specifically designed for automotive interiors, you can completely refresh the look of your car’s cabin. Be sure to clean and prep the surface thoroughly before applying paint, and follow up with a sealant for added durability.
Maintaining Restored Plastic
Restoring your car’s interior plastic is only the first step—keeping it looking great requires ongoing care. Regular cleaning with a gentle automotive cleaner prevents dirt and grime from building up, while reapplying a UV protectant every few months helps ward off fading.
Avoid abrasive tools or harsh chemicals when cleaning, as these can scratch or discolor the plastic. If you notice new scratches or areas of fading, address them promptly to prevent the damage from worsening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to clean car interior plastic before restoring it?
Use a microfiber cloth and an automotive cleaner to gently clean the surface. Avoid spraying the cleaner directly onto the plastic—apply it to the cloth first.
Can I use household cleaners on car interior plastic?
It’s better to avoid household cleaners, as many contain harsh chemicals that can damage the plastic. Stick to products designed for automotive interiors.
How long does plastic restoration last?
The longevity of your restoration depends on the quality of the product used and how well you maintain the surfaces. Applying a UV protectant regularly can extend the results for up to a year.
Is painting a good option for restoring faded plastic?
Yes, painting is a great option for severely damaged or discolored plastic. Use a paint formulated for automotive interiors, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
What if I accidentally damage the plastic during restoration?
If damage occurs, stop and reassess the technique or product being used. For severe damage, consider replacing the affected part or consulting a professional.
Final Thoughts
Restoring the plastic interior of your car is an investment in both aesthetics and value. With the right products and techniques, you can transform faded, scratched, or stained plastic into surfaces that look nearly new. Whether you choose to use a restorer, repair scratches, or even repaint, the effort you put in will be well worth it. Regular cleaning and UV protection will keep your interior looking great for years to come, ensuring you always enjoy a fresh, polished cabin every time you get behind the wheel.
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