Seems like a lot of info here on waxes and polishes, but could not find info on something that would be suitable for cleaning & protecting the black rubber trim on the doors of my Cayenne. It's not the inside seal between the door and body, but the rubber trim that circles the glass and seals where the window frame meet the body. They get lots of UV exposure so want to make sure they continue to stay nice looking. What seems to be the best stuff for this?

Thanks!

 

Wash vinyl surfaces with soapy water and rinse with clean water and then thoroughly dry. Then use 1z Plastik Reiniger before the application of a dressing
Protection - with 1z einszett Vinyl Rubber Care & Potectant "Tiefenpfleger” provides a temperature-resistant seal and a low-shine matte finish Dust-resistant and retards the fading effects of UV rays to keep exterior ‘rubber’ and vinyl looking like new. UVR protection is a sacrificial / renewable component; this is due to the UV protection layer being degraded by exposure to the elements (sun, sand, road or sea salt, and etc) so it is imperative that you renew it and needs to be re-applied on a regular basis (dependent upon location climatic condition)
Application - Spray onto a clean micro fibre towel, agitate it well and then allow it to dwell for 10-15 minutes. Finally using a clean micro fibre towel buff it to ensure it permeates

 

Great questions. We've found the ideal combo to be einszett Plastic Cleaner and Swissvax Seal Feed. The 1Z will do an excellent job of cleaning and getting rid of the oxidation rubber. You'll see your towel get black and the trim get nice and dull.

Then, simply apply a little Seal Feed on a mf towel and begin rubbing the trim. It will penetrate the rubber and plastic exterior parts and impart a nice deep black look that's not shiny.

http://www.glisteningperfectionstore...eed-gum/Detail

http://www.glisteningperfectionstore...C-vinyl/Detail

 

I used to use dielecrtic grease from the auto parts store on my Corvettes. It worked quite well. It is a nonconductive based material that is used in many auto applications. It is really inexpensive, something like $3.00 for a tube. You will likely see better results from the products mentioned above but many Corvette enthusiasts use dielectric grease on their exterior trim molding. Just a thought.

Adam

 

I can recommend Adam's VRT - Vinyl, Rubber and Tire Dressing. We use this on all of our cars. This is the info from their website.
"Adam's VRT is a safe, water based, cream formula containing modern polymers that coat and bond to all vinyl and rubber for premium protection and natural beauty. Adam's VRT makes all vinyl and rubber surfaces look dark and rich, not wet and greasy. Apply it to your tires, bumper trim and textured vinyl for a dark, sporty, natural look that does not attract brake dust and road grime.
Adam's VRT is not just for the exterior of your car. Inside, use VRT on all textured plastic, vinyl seats, console and your dashboard for a natural look with superior protection. Simply apply with a foam sponge applicator and wipe away the excess with a soft, dry towel. VRT restore a factory perfect appearance in minutes! Regular use of Adam's VRT effectively eliminates slow fade cause by the sun's UV rays."

 

Silicone (dielectric) grease is waterproof grease made by combining silicone oil with a thickener and the Iz product mentioned are both formulated from Polydimethylsiloxane, which is a water-based that don’t contain petroleum distillate solvents that can harm rubber and/or vinyl over time; water-based dressings use a combination of natural oils and polymersthat coat and bond to offer a non-greasy, satin finish.

The advantage that the Iz product offers over the dielctric grease is the ultra violet (UV) radiation protection included in its formulation

 

Silicone spray specific for trim worked for me. I do this on ALL trim before I store my car for the winter and it always looks new in the Spring.

 

It is important to note that the seals and trim need to be properly cleaned before they are conditioned or sealed with anything.

The 1Z Plastic Cleaner does a great job of removing any residual conditioner, as well as oxidation or other contaminants, leaving a clean surface for the Seal Feed to work its magic on.

The oxidation is the biggest thing to worry about. Not only does it harm the seal itself, but it is quite noticeable. If you simply apply some type of seal conditioner or dressing over the oxidation, it is still visible and detracts from the uniform finish.

So keep in mind that no matter what product you are using to dress the trim, just like with your paint, you have to clean it before you protect it.

 

Awesome tips guys - thanks for all the replies!

 

Glad to lend a hand. Let us know how it turns out!

 

I will need to try out the methods posted here too...........

However, Ive had really nice results with Black WOW, just make sure you work the product and buff off the excess.

Cheers,
GREG

 

What effect would washing a car with a gentle car wash soap have on all these plastic trim sealants ? In other words how often should one treat the trim on cars that get a weekly car wash.

 

If you clean the trim with the 1Z Plastic Cleaner, Condition with Swissvax Seal Feed, and use a gentle soap like P21S Bodywork Shampoo, you shouldn't have to condition the trim but every 6-8 weeks.