OK, so we have had the MINI for two months. Around here, that means like 15 rainy days. BAD NEWS for black trim.
First day we picked up the Mini I used Black WOW. So it was applied to a literally new car. Looked great, smelled awesome
For sure lasted better than a typical cheapo trim dressing Ive used on other cars.
But... it really didnt hold up that well to rain and washings
Particularly on the lower rocker covers. I dont know, maybe Im just picky. Also seemed to attract dust like a magnet. Yes, it worked better than Armor All. Basically, the water was making the wow'ed areas streaky and grey. Not all areas, just the most-exposed areas. I shouldnt say it didnt hold up well, thats not fair. It held up great compared to Armor All. I guess I was looking for a literally 2x per year application.
On another car (beat old Honda) I used Forever Black..it literally lasted two years of automatic carwashes, but gave a somewhat streaky look to the trim. Didnt want that on the new Mini.
So.... I cleaned off the black wow a month ago and tried a black dye. I wont name names (so as not to be accused of promoting a brand) but I found a detail shop that had a black trim dye/protectant. They claim 6 months service life in rainy weather. AND I BELIEVE IT. So far the last month has been wet. About 5 or 6 rainy days. Light washing between rainy days. Trim is spectacular. Looks 100% as it did when I first applied. No dust problems either even after 2 mile gravel road drives!
Anyways, Im sure I will get flamed to death for not stroking Black Wow, and thats fine. I admire the black wow company for sponsoring the site and all. But really, the stuff seems like scented peanut oil. I dont know. I guess I expected more for 25 friggin bucks.
Heck, for all I know the Dye might self destruct in a few months, but so far so good. Might be worth a try if you find other protectants not cutting it in wet areas of the country.
