How to Restore Faded Plastic Trim on Your Car (Without Greasy Residue)
Nothing makes a car look older faster than faded, chalky plastic trim. Those dull gray panels around your fenders, mirrors, and bumpers? They used to be deep black. Good news: you can restore them—and keep them looking great—without greasy, shiny messes.
This guide walks you through the pro-level process for restoring your exterior plastic trim using the right products, prepping correctly, and applying a dressing that leaves a clean, OEM finish.
Why Trim Fades in the First Place
Plastic and rubber trim is porous. Over time, UV rays, oxidation, road grime, and harsh washes pull moisture and oils out of the surface—leaving it faded, dry, and gray.
Most store-bought “restorers” temporarily mask the problem with oils or silicone-based products that attract dirt and wash off quickly.
What You Need for a Real Trim Restoration
- The Super Soaper – For surface prep and decontamination
- All Dressed Up – Professional-grade trim & tire dressing
- Microfiber towel or soft-bristle brush
- Foam applicator pad
Step-by-Step: How to Restore Faded Trim
1. Wash and Degrease the Area
Use Super Soaper in a bucket or foam sprayer to wash the trim. Scrub with a microfiber towel or soft brush to remove old dressing, oils, or road grime. Rinse and dry completely.
2. Apply All Dressed Up Trim Dressing
Shake the bottle well. Apply a few drops of All Dressed Up to a foam applicator pad. Spread evenly across the faded trim in thin layers. Let it absorb for 3–5 minutes.
3. Level the Finish
Use a clean microfiber towel to gently level off any excess product. This step prevents streaks, drips, or sticky residue. The surface should look clean, matte, and evenly darkened—not wet or glossy.
4. Repeat If Needed
For severely faded trim, apply a second coat after 15 minutes for extra depth and protection.
Why All Dressed Up Works Better Than Most
- Water-based and silicone-free – No greasy buildup or dirt attraction
- Adjustable shine – Use less for a matte look, layer for satin
- Safe on all exterior plastic, rubber, and trim
How Long Will It Last?
With proper prep, All Dressed Up lasts several weeks to months depending on exposure. To maintain, reapply after washes or when water stops beading on the trim.
Conclusion
You don’t need oily dressings or overpriced restorers. You just need the right process and the right product. All Dressed Up brings faded trim back to life and keeps it that way—without the mess.
🧼 Products Featured in This Post:
- The Super Soaper – Surface prep soap (or Amazon)
- All Dressed Up – Professional trim and tire dressing
- Everyday Microfiber Towels
Bring your trim back to black—safely, easily, and without the slime.
