How to Restore Rubberized Automotive Trim

How to Restore Rubberized Automotive Trim thumbnail
Bring back the black in your automotive trim and bumpers with specially formulated re-conditoners.

Sun, wind, rain and other harsh elements can cause oxidation or contaminate your black or colored trim, leaving it faded and unappealing. Restore rubberized automotive trim with specially formulated products that remove and prevent oxidation. These products are available at most automotive supply, hardware, or department stores. Most rubber reconditioning products are also effective on vinyl and plastic automotive trim and bumpers, as well as on unfinished or non-black parts such as wiper arms, window trim, door handles and mirrors.

Things You'll Need

  • Car wash soap and water
  • Vinyl/rubber re-conditioner
  • Cotton applicator
  • Clean soft cloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Park your car in the shade or inside. Wash, rinse and dry the car thoroughly.

    • 2

      Shake the bottle of re-conditioner. Pour a liberal amount onto the applicator.

    • 3

      Apply the conditioner on the trim. Work it in and keep replenishing the applicator until the rubberized part is thoroughly covered. Let it soak for three to five minutes.

    • 4

      Buff the trim with a clean soft cloth. Repeat the application or buff harder if you get streaks in the finish. The result should be an even sheen or high gloss.

Tips & Warnings

  • Some tire re-conditioning products can also be used on rubberized or plastic flat-finished parts. See product manufacturer specifications.

  • Avoid applying re-conditioner in direct sunlight.

  • Properly dispose empty containers and rags.

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References

Resources

  • Photo Credit dinosaurs image by Scott Williams from Fotolia.com

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