I've used several black plastic "restoring" products in the past that don't last very long. I mostly used Mother's back to black and just recently tried Meguiars natural shine protectant, but they don't last very long and usually come off when it rains. Has anyone tried something similar to restore and/or protect the exterior black plastic trim that lasts longer than a couple weeks?
I've used several black plastic "restoring" products in the past that don't last very long. I mostly used Mother's back to black and just recently tried Meguiars natural shine protectant, but they don't last very long and usually come off when it rains. Has anyone tried something similar to restore and or protect the exterior black plastic trim lasts for than a couple weeks?
I use a product called "CQuartz DLUX" https://www.carpro-us.com/coatings-sealants-spray-wax/cquartz-dlux-wheel-trim-coating-30ml-sky-kit/ -- basically works as a hard coat sealant for your plastic trim, keeping it looking new and waterproof for 6 months or more at a time (like you would seal your paint but this is for plastic trim). In my personal experience, I've only redone the application once a year, with the trim staying black, looking like new, and beading water without wearing off... honestly I don't think I needed to redo my application when I did, but just did so because a year was up and I had time to do it one day. YMMV depending on how long your car sits in the burning sun each day. You might also consider Gtechnic C4 as a similar product. I highly recommend this and I'm confident you'll never use anything else after you try it. It does require proper surface prep and a slow deliberate installation process, but imo it's well worth the effort.
I ended up going with the Cquartz Dlux after reading reviews and watching this video. https://youtu.be/_jX01ntst0g
I put it on the hrv in March and on the crv in April. After a lot of rain and some really hot days, the plastic trim on both cars still looks great. Thanks again for the recommendation Slippy.
I've heard really good things about some CQuartz products. They have a sealant for paint and from what I've heard, it's an absolute pain in the ass to get done properly because you have to make sure your paint is 100% immaculate before applying it. And the application process is labor intensive too. But this stuff is supposed to last 1-2 years which is incredible.
I'll have to check out the Dlux too. I recently purchased a few new products my detailing friend told me to get because I want to make sure this car is properly maintained.
I don't think spray painting is easier. You risk spray painting other parts of the body unless you put a lot if time to cover up all the other areas. Using Cquartz is almost as easy as using armor all.
I use Meguiar's M40 on all of the exterior trim and the dashboard. On the exterior surfaces it keeps everything a nice solid black. It lasts for a few months and does a really good job of clearing up wax residue. It doesn't give a shine to the matte plastics, but it does take them from dark grey to black.
Same. Its all we ever use for our cars anymore.It really seems to last longer than anything else we've used.
I also bought the fabric guard from 303 for my door panels.
Just a heads up on M40, some people complained that it ruined their headunit screen. I'm just sticking to the black trim and a few black interior plastics.
Used the M40 on outside trim and rubber. Also did the dash and rubber seals around the doors/hatch. Looks nice but I have had HRV for only 2 1/2 months. Since I keep in garage, I am hoping to get 2-4 months. But it only took 20-25 minutes.
Only hesitation is after reading the directions, you might think you are dealing with WMD. Definitely apply outside and wash your hands afterwards.
Most of you that responded are still active in this forum...so how has the black trim held up since?
Mine's starting to look pretty rough. I used this AC Delco dressing stuff my husband got at work that left it looking greasy & streaky after it rained. I had to wash/rub it off.
Currently , the biggest baddest products for trim and paint are Si02 infused products. Conventional stuff last weeks, SIO2 can last months if not years. And carpro is one of the leaders with SIO2 products. The DLUX product is outstanding. I have it on all my trim as well. My wheels are done with CQUARTZUK, and the paint is done with Carpro RELOAD, then blackfire si02 spray after every 8th rinseless si02 wash or so.
Because it is semi permanent, read the instructions and take your time.
There are lots of things that will make it shine. There's not many that will last 6 to 9 months…
And forget tire DRESSINGS … Look for a tire COATING. I do my wheels about every six months, they always look brand new, not shiny, but just like their new.