Trim is the punctuation of a classic car — the thin chrome outline, the soft rubber gasket, the plastic vent that frames each curve. When these small parts age unevenly, even a clean body can look tired. Reviving them doesn’t demand heavy chemicals, only patience and the right touch.
Begin by washing the car first so dirt doesn’t transfer onto detailing tools. Use mild shampoo and a soft brush to clean around badges and seams. Once dry, take a moment to observe under angled light: chrome should reflect evenly, rubber should appear satin rather than chalky, and plastic should hold subtle depth.
For chrome, wrap a microfibre cloth around your finger and use a fine metal polish. Work in short circles until the haze turns darker, then buff with a clean section of the cloth. Avoid pressure; the goal is clarity, not re-plating. If you notice rust freckles, treat them with aluminium foil dipped in soapy water — a gentle trick that neutralises oxidation without cutting through the finish.
Rubber trim needs moisture more than shine. After cleaning, apply a rubber conditioner or diluted glycerine with a sponge. Let it soak briefly before wiping off excess. Never use petroleum-based sprays; they cause swelling and eventual cracking. Regular hydration keeps door seals flexible and reduces cabin wind noise.
Plastic parts vary by age and formula. Older black vents or mirror bases respond well to water-based restorers that darken gradually. Avoid quick “wet look” dressings — they streak in rain and collect dust. Work the product with a small foam pad, then buff dry for an even tone.
Edges between materials deserve special attention. Use cotton buds to clear residues trapped where chrome meets paint. If polish or wax has built up, a soft toothbrush dipped in mild cleaner works wonders. Once everything is uniform, step back and compare reflections — trim should frame the panels quietly, not shout.
Maintenance is simple afterwards: quick wipe with a damp cloth after every wash and a re-treat every few months. In our Birmingham workshop, we log these intervals so owners know when their cars last received trim care. This steady rhythm keeps aging parts graceful instead of neglected.
Every curve, every line gains meaning through its outline. Good trim care doesn’t make the car younger — it helps time look deliberate. A little polish, a little patience, and the metal speaks again.
Colmore Classic Auto Care
28 Livery Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham B3 2BP, England
Tel 441 121 784 613 Email [email protected]