Can Ceramic Coating Restore BLACK FADED Plastic Trim?

CERAMIC COATING COMPLETELY RESTORES FADED PLASTIC TRIM

Are you a Rivian R1S or Rivian R1T owner that has issues with faded plastic trim? Maybe a Jeep or Ford Mustang owner? All of these cars are notorious for faded plastic trim. Nothing makes a new car look older than it really is than black plastic that has faded way too soon, espcially in the Texas sun! 

One of our Copperas Cove/Killeen/Harker Heights clients told us that many Rivian owners are experiencing the same issues – faded plastic trim. We told him that we would solve the problem for him with specific ceramic coating for trim that lasts two or more years!

2020 Chevy Blazer Ceramic Coating PHOTO-7 restore faded plastic trim

WHAT CAUSES FADED PLASTIC TRIM?

The fading of black plastic trim on cars, including Jeeps and Rivians, is primarily due to exposure to environmental factors and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Several reasons contribute to the gradual deterioration of black plastic trim:

  1. UV Radiation: Sunlight contains ultraviolet rays that can be particularly harsh on surfaces exposed to direct sunlight, such as exterior plastic trim. This is especially true in Central Texas. UV radiation breaks down the polymers in plastic, causing them to degrade and lose their original color. Over time, prolonged exposure leads to the fading of the black plastic trim.

  2. Oxidation: Oxygen in the air can react with the polymers in plastic through a process called oxidation. This reaction can alter the chemical structure of the plastic, resulting in a change in color and appearance. Oxidation is accelerated by exposure to sunlight, heat, and other environmental factors.

  3. Heat and Temperature Fluctuations: Elevated temperatures, which can occur due to sunlight and hot weather, can accelerate the chemical processes leading to plastic degradation. Additionally, repeated cycles of heating and cooling, as seen in fluctuating temperatures, can contribute to the breakdown of the plastic’s molecular structure.

  4. Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in car care products, road salts, and environmental pollutants, can accelerate the fading of black plastic trim. These chemicals can interact with the plastic, causing it to break down and lose its original color.

  5. Abrasion and Mechanical Wear: Physical contact and abrasion, whether from cleaning or general use, can contribute to the wear and tear of black plastic trim. Scratches and scuffs can create micro-damage on the surface, making it more susceptible to fading over time.

  6. Quality of Materials: The quality of the plastic used in the manufacturing of the trim can influence its resistance to fading. Cheaper or lower-quality plastics may be more prone to UV damage and other environmental stressors, leading to quicker fading compared to higher-quality materials.

2018 Range Rover Paint Correction & Ceramic Coating process Photo-10

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT IT?

The best thing you can do about faded plastic trim is keep it clean and protected from the Central Texas/Killeen area UV rays – and of course, ceramic coating will stop fading plastic trim because it contains UV protection!

Ceramic coating acts as a powerful shield against the fading of plastic trim on vehicles. This advanced protective layer forms a durable, transparent barrier that effectively blocks harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing them from reaching the plastic surface. UV radiation is a primary culprit in causing fading, as it degrades the polymers in plastic. By applying ceramic coating, car owners create a defense mechanism that not only enhances the trim’s aesthetic appeal but also safeguards it from environmental factors, oxidation, and chemical exposure. The result is long-lasting protection that helps retain the original vibrancy of the plastic trim.