Plasti dip is a popular rubber coating product used by car owners to change their car’s color temporarily. It peels off easily when you want to revert to the original paint. While the application is straightforward, cleaning plasti dipped cars requires some care. Improper cleaning can damage the plasti dip coating. This article will guide you through the complete process of safely cleaning a plasti dipped car.
Materials I Used for Cleaning the Plasti Dip Car
Here are the supplies you will need to properly clean a plasti dipped car:
- Two buckets – one for soap solution, one for rinsing
- Automotive car wash soap or dish soap
- Soft microfiber mitts and towels
- Stiff bristle cleaning brush
- Rubbing alcohol
- Clay bar
- Wheel cleaner
- Tire cleaner
- Wheel brush
- Hose with pressure nozzle
The two-bucket method is essential to prevent swirls and scratches in the plasti dip. Use a soap designed for automotive use as household cleaners may be too harsh. Microfiber towels safely lift dirt without scratching. Stiff brushes help agitate stuck-on grime. Rubbing alcohol cleans residue from glass and plastic trim. Clay bars remove bonded surface contaminants.
Procedure I Followed to Clean a Plasti Dip Car
Follow these steps to properly clean your plasti dipped car:
Step 1. Rinse Off Loose Debris
Use a hose on a moderate setting to spray down the car and rinse off loose dirt and debris. Avoid using high pressure as it can damage the plasti dip.
Step 2. Wash Wheels and Tires
Apply wheel cleaner gel to the wheels and let them sit for 2-3 minutes. Use a wheel brush to scrub away brake dust and grime. Rinse thoroughly. Spray tire cleaner onto the sidewalls and scrub with a soft bristle brush. Rinse completely.
Step 3. Wash Painted Surfaces
Fill one bucket with car wash soap mixed with water. Fill the second bucket with plain clean water for rinsing. Submerge a microfiber mitt in the soap bucket and wash one section at a time. Rinse the mitt in the plain water bucket and wring it out before moving to the next section.
Step 4. Spot Treat Tough Stains
Use a stiff detailing brush to gently agitate any tough stains or dirt the mitt missed. Avoid abrasive scrubbing on the plasti dip.
Step 5. Clay Bar the Surface
Rub a clay bar lubricated with soapy water back and forth to remove contaminants from the paint. Fold and reshape it periodically. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Step 6. Clean Glass and Trim
Spray rubbing alcohol onto a microfiber towel and wipe down all glass and plastic trim. Buff off any residue with a dry towel.
Step 7. Dry the Car
Use fresh microfiber towels to thoroughly dry the car. Inspect closely for any remaining water spots or contaminants. Repeat cleaning if needed.
Step 8. Apply Protectants
Apply tire shine gel to refresh the appearance of the tires. Wipe down exterior trim and black surfaces with a protectant to restore color and prevent fading. You can use a Dip detailer such as Stay Fresh to maintain the color, if you want.
Precautions for You While Cleaning a Plasti Dip Car
Here are some key precautions when cleaning a plasti dipped car:
- Avoid car washes with brushes or harsh chemicals that can damage the plasti dip. Hand washing is best.
- Test cleaners on a small section first to ensure they don’t degrade the plasti dip.
- Use low water pressure when rinsing to prevent forcing water behind the plasti dip.
- Dry thoroughly afterwards and inspect closely to ensure there is no lifting or bubbling of the plasti dip edges.
- Never use abrasive pads, abrasive pastes, or polishes on plasti dip as it will quickly scratch and ruin the finish.
By following these best practices, you can keep your plasti dipped car looking clean and freshly dipped for a long time. Always be gentle and take your time to avoid damaging the plasti dip coating during washing. With the right techniques and care, cleaning your plasti dip finished car is straightforward.
Conclusion
Cleaning a plasti dipped car requires some specialized techniques and care to avoid damaging the plasti dip coating. By using the right soft supplies, mild cleaners, gentle agitation methods, and low water pressure, you can safely wash away dirt and contaminants. Always dry thoroughly and add protectants to restore the fresh dipped appearance. Avoid car washes with brushes or harsh chemicals. Take precautions like testing cleaners first and inspecting closely for lift marks. With this proper process, you can keep your plasti dipped car looking immaculate. Thanks for reading this guide on properly cleaning plasti dip finished cars. Let me know in the comments if you have any other tips or questions!