UV rays, dirt, and harsh weather conditions strip your car’s plastic of its original color, leaving it dull and lifeless. Restoring the shine will improve your car’s overall appearance and protect the plastic from further damage. So, if you’re worried about faded plastic parts, try out any of these 15 methods!

Heat Gun Treatment

A heat gun melts the outer oxidized layer of plastic, causing the pigments underneath to resurface. To do this, swipe the heat gun over the surface at a distance of 4–6 inches to avoid overheating. While this method is effective for restoring color, it doesn’t add long-term protection.

Plastic Restorer Products

Plastic restorer products are designed with UV blockers and hydrophobic properties. They typically contain silicone or polymers that penetrate the plastic deep. Additionally, these products restore the plastic’s color and protect it from further sun exposure. Products like Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer offer long-lasting protection.

Peanut Butter

As a natural emollient, peanut butter can seep into faded plastic and temporarily restore its sheen. It is most effective on darker plastics but doesn’t provide lasting results. Due to its oily residue, peanut butter might also attract dirt. To avoid this, clean the surface afterward with soap and water.

Vinegar and Baking Soda Mixture

Vinegar breaks down grime while baking soda helps scrub away the degraded plastic surface. Mix the same quantity of vinegar and water and add a little quantity of baking soda to the mix to form a paste. After applying the paste, let it sit for a few minutes, scrub gently, and then rinse.

Black Trim Dye

A long-lasting solution for fading plastic is this black trim dye, especially for pieces with heavily damaged surfaces. The dye chemically bonds with the plastic, creating a durable, UV-resistant layer. First, prepare the surface by thoroughly cleaning it beforehand to ensure the dye adheres properly.

Olive Oil

Olive oil moisturizes the plastic and temporarily darkens its color. This method is best for quick fixes when the plastic needs to look fresh for a short time. However, olive oil can attract dust and break down under UV exposure, making it less suitable for long-term use.

WD-40

The water-displacing compound in WD-40 temporarily restores worn plastic by adding a layer of shine and wetness. It also helps protect the surface from further exposure to moisture, which can cause fading. However, it’s important to note that WD-40 doesn’t offer UV protection, although it restores the look temporarily.

Plastic Polishing Compounds

Polishing compounds are formulated with fine abrasives, especially effective on light to moderate fading. After polishing, apply a plastic sealant to protect the restored surface from UV rays and environmental factors. Polishing is also beneficial for removing minor scratches that may accumulate on plastic surfaces.

Silicone-Based Protectant Sprays

These compounds offer excellent UV protection and help restore faded plastic by coating the surface with a protective layer. They not only bring back the color but also prevent cracking and fading by blocking harmful UV rays. However, they need to be reapplied every few months.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste contains mild abrasives like silica, which are excellent for gently removing oxidation from plastic surfaces. It works best on small areas of fading and can also help clean and brighten headlights. Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to a cloth, rub it in, and rinse thoroughly.

DIY Water and Dish Soap Solution

Try this method if your plastic trim appears faded due to the accumulation of dirt and grime rather than UV damage. Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the plastic. After washing, dry the plastic thoroughly, then apply a plastic conditioner to prevent further fading.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizer, breaking down surface-level oxidation on faded plastic. For best results, mix it with a small amount of baking soda to form a paste, then apply it to the plastic. Leave it for a few minutes, scrub gently, and rinse off with water.

Trim Restoration Wipes

While not as long-lasting as dedicated plastic restorers, these wipes are perfect for quick fixes and maintenance. Trim restoration wipes, like Armor All Outlast Trim & Plastic Restorer Wipes, restore faded plastic while providing UV protection. They are pre-moistened with restoring oils, making them convenient for touch-ups. 

Vinyl Wrap or Plastic Covering

If your plastic trim is too faded for restoration, a vinyl wrap can offer an aesthetic and protective solution. Vinyl wraps come in various colors, finishes (such as carbon fiber), and textures. They cover the faded plastic and protect against UV damage, scratches, and wear.

Professional Refinishing

This is the most effective solution for severely faded or damaged plastic. Professionals may use advanced techniques such as sanding, repainting, and applying long-lasting UV-protective coatings to restore the plastic trim. Though more expensive than DIY options, professional refinishing delivers a permanent fix.