Today I had a clumsy moment which resulted in a few scuff marks in the right front fender arch. If it were paint, I'd know what to do. But, it's plastic.

I tried the Zaino stuff for tires, which made the plastic trim look great. But it didn't do much to hide the scuffs. The marks appear as slightly lighter lines that run horizontally.

I'm thinking maybe Forever Black might do the trick, but I wanted to hear what others have used. What works? What doesn't?

If you'll help me erase my mistake, I promise to be more careful going forward. :smile:

 

Hello Emmit!

What scuffed your spats (that's what they're called--funny name)! Was it a wax product or other chemical, or did you physically scratch into them?

Definitely don't get too upset, since worst-case scenario, the spats can be replaced, and installing them isn't terribly difficult, from what I've heard.

Lots of guys remove them and have a body shop prep and paint them body color. I know of at least one poster who bought a second set so he could alternate between color-coded ones and standard...

If you got a chemical (wax or something) on it, some people have said peanut butter (or peanut oil) will "erase" the mistake.

See you around!

 

If it's a physical scratch, I'd love to find a way to hide those! It would do wonders for the back of the front seats!

 

Thanks for reminding me:smile:I just tried peanut oil on the back of the seats.Now the scuffs/scratches are still there,but they are black again,and don't show as bad.
I did the passenger seat,does not show up that well in this photo,but you can see a big difference in person.





Well didn't know how long this was going to last.Turns out not long,the dog got in to go for a motor,and licked it all off

 

The scratches are pretty light, really. The real problem is not the severity, but that they're the first.

They were caused by placing a set of Rhino Ramps a bit too close. I bumped one of them, and it rubbed.

Anyone use Forever Black on their spats?

 

Yes and I wasn't impressed. Their definition of "forever" is very different from mine!

It's a temporary coverup at best. If you really want to clean the "spats", this stuff is a waste of money. But it sounds like you need re-texturing more than cleaning...

 

I'd be willing to bet that scuff marks on the plastic trim can be darkened w/ some sort of dressing, but not removed. If you want them truly gone, you might investigate replacing that one section of trim.

 

Ummm... If you are really worried about them, just REPLACE EM! The most expensive wheel arch is only $20 or so and they go on with plastic clips. Just call your dealership and have some waiting for you the next time you go in. They probably have 'em in stock.

 

Thanks all for your insights and opinions on this crucial matter. I do appreciate it.

Armed with this information, I think the best approach is to simply consider the spats wear items. I'll maintain them, and I'll be more careful not to damage them. But if they begin to look ragged, I'll replace them as necessary.
My irritation with myself for just being clumsy has mostly subsided.

 

Use 303 protectant on them. The marks will be greatly diminished.