How to Repair Chrome on Plastic

Restoring chrome on your car gives the vehicle a shiny new look.

Many vehicles have some type of plastic chrome on the exterior. Whether the trim, wheels, or the bumper are chrome, they can become worn or dirty due to natural elements or road solvents. When the shine and luster of the plastic chrome has become fogged or non-existent, a few inexpensive household materials can be used to restore the chrome and make your vehicle look like new.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• 5 cups all-purpose automobile cleaner
• 4 cups warm water
• Sponge
• Soft toothbrush
• Lint-free cleaning cloth

Instructions

1. Mix five cups of all-purpose automotive cleaner and four cups of warm water into a bucket.

2. Soak a sponge in the water and cleanser solution. Completely saturate the area to be cleaned using the sponge.

3. Scrub the area that needs to be cleaned with the soft-bristled toothbrush. Scrub in small but firm circular motions.

4. Rinse the area with clear water.

5. Dry and buff the plastic chrome using the lint-free cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves during the process if desired to prevent drying of the skin.

• Do not treat plastic chrome as if it were actual chrome. Real chrome cleaners are abrasive and will damage and scratch plastic.

References

• Mother's Detail Guide: Cosmetic and Exterior Trim
• Motorcycle Cruiser: Motorcycle Cleaning and Finishing
• Autopia: Cleaning and Polishing Tips for Plastic Chrome

Resources

• Finishing.com: Chrome Plating on Plastics