Trim Restoration

About

Why Car Trim Fades & Turns Grey Black trim looks so sleek and stylish in those early days of owning your car. But that deep and glossy black might be looking dull and faded these days, giving your whole car a tired and unloved look. Unfortunately, car trim will inevitably fade over time, helped along by environmental factors. These include: Sunlight (UV radiation) Moisture (rain and damp conditions) Road salt Pollutants These factors contribute to a loss of oils in the plastic, causing it to oxidise and become brittle as well as lose pigment. Untreated, this can eventually lead to cracks forming in the trim. Bumpers are often the most vulnerable areas for a loss in condition and can cost hundreds to replace if they’re left to degrade beyond repair. Fading can typically take just a few years from new to become noticeable, or even less if the car is parked outside. Avoiding the expense of replacement is just about ongoing maintenance and preventative care. A trim restoration product can cost from just £5 to £15 and can be done easily by hand at home. Types of Car Trim Materials Textured black plastic: The most common type of exterior trim, found on bumpers, wing mirrors and door handles. It usually has a matte finish and fades to a chalky grey once oxidised. Smooth black plastic: Often used for interior trim areas, including the dashboard, door panels, and centre console. It can have a slightly more glossy or satin finish. It can show fingerprints in high-touch areas like control buttons and the steering wheel. Rubber: Generally used for door and window seals as well as grille surrounds. It can become chalky and brittle over time, developing cracks and creases if not maintained. Vinyl - A less common material on modern cars, but can sometimes be found as trim in vintage vehicles. It degrades in a similar way to plastic, fading and losing its condition over time. Modern cars can have some or all of these materials both inside and out, forming seals, trim, dashboard