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Restoring / saving rubber trim!

3.5K views 14 replies 8 participants last post by  ridders66  
#1 ·
Evening all.

Very new to washing cars let alone detailing! But am slowly getting more interested and doing more n more to my car. After some advice though please.

I have these rubber seals around each of my windows. They've all gone grey and spotted / faded and show up alot!

So far I've tried APC thinking it was just dirt /water spots, nothing.

Stronger APC and magic sponge... Nothing.

Clean, APC and when dried gummi pflege and again no difference.

I've resigned myself that there is likely no long term cure and I'll just have to "back to black" or similar product it. Ideally I'd like something that lasts a couple months and provides UV protection but works on Rubber, everything I find is plastic trim based. I have something planned for that, but that's another story!

Any advice welcome, many thanks in advance
Image
 
#10 ·
Thanks all. Kc PS, just had a quick search, not one I've seen before, is a bit cheaper than other options though! Is this a dressing? As in I'm going to need to re do this? If so how long will it last? It's hard as no matter how much I search. There are so many recommendations but not one definite perfect product. I just don't want to spend each time trying something and it not doing anything!

I'm starting to wonder if it's something I'm doing or if the previous owners dressing etc is coming off. My roof rails are shocking too but it seems to have more "spots" appearing. They're plastic and I'm certain on trying C4 on them. Do I really need a panel wipe for that? I was just going to give a good wash with car the after do a decent APC clean. But again they have marks that almost look like grease or similar on! Unless its just where roof bars went.

So much to figure out!!
 
#9 ·
Welcome along to the forum fellah đź‘‹đź‘‹đź‘‹

Thy do look neglected. I'd use KC ps or it's newer version, only because I always have it. Clean up as best as you can and let them dry off and apply with a little rag, no need to waste on a MF. Repeat and add again later or next day, it will suck it in for sure.
They look dire, so any improvement will help and certain they will look much better.🤞
They will need a reapplication sooner than later.

Maintenance is always better than cure (y)
 
#8 ·
I'd be pretty certain seal feed won't bring it back if it was me I'd try to get advice from people who have used it and their experience or even better before and after pics. It's more a conditioner like gummi pflege for cracking,hardening of seals rather than a restorer so as I say I'd be doubtful it would get it back. It will improve it as most however from your pics the stain8ng looks quite bad.

I've not used solution finish fortunately not had the issue you have so can't comment personally but it does say it can be used on rubber. It's been discussed on here before along with other trim and rubber treatments so might be worth another look for a cheaper alternative as you say Swissvax is eyewateringly expensive in general.
 
#7 ·
Thanks for all the quick replies. Most of these names I've found in my hunt! Solution finish I read wasn't that great on rubbers which put me off.

Swissvax i read was specific rubber treatment but just So expensive, if I paid 60 quid for a bottle, put it on and it does nothing I'd be gutted! But it does sound like what I need. Then again it sounds similar to gummi pflege to be honest!

My magic sponge attempt was actually to take a fine top layer off! But it clearly didn't do anything and I know was a bit risky with scratching etc.

Maybe I'll brave the seal and feed!!
 
#5 ·
There are two abrasive methods there. Magic sponges can scratch and scuff. Some gummi pflege (rubber care) contains a strong alcohol that can eat away at rubber.
Rubber needs feeding and sealing to prevent it from drying, chipping and, cracking.
Nourishing and restoring natural oils is important.
Try something like Swissvax Seal Feed. Careful not to get it on paint. Multiple applications over a few days. See how you go. Then make it a seasonal thing. When the season turns apply a coat for maintenance.