Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
05-19-2011, 07:39 AM
#1
Audi Forum - Posts like an A1
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Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Ottawa
Posts: 48
Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
Hi guys...is there any way to clean the oxidation (fog) from my chrome/aluminium window trim? BTW...Never-dull works great on cleaning exhaust tips and door sill trimp...however it shouldn't be used for anything with a lacquer coating such as the window or interior trim. Cheers
05-20-2011, 01:16 AM
#2
Audi Forum - Posts like an S4
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Vancouver
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
I use a light buffing compound and a microfibre cloth. You can get this from 3M, CarBrite or Automagic. Works well and keeps it protected against the elements.
05-20-2011, 08:28 AM
#4
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
thanks LR...I'll give that a try. I've heard the 'touchless' car washes (which unfortunately are all I use in the winter) may contribute to the oxidation.
05-20-2011, 08:30 AM
#5
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Join Date: Jun 2010
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
not sure...it looks like a coated, polished aluminum to me...certainly not the same as the chrome that surounds the grill...no problem keeping that up.
05-21-2011, 04:42 PM
#7
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
The buffing compound I am referring to is for coated aluminum, chrome, stainless or plastic parts. It will say right on it that it is specific for trim parts and not to be used on rubber or matte finishes. The 3M product works the best but is also expensive when compared to CarBrite or Automagic.
I'm not sure about car washes as each one is different and uses different formulations. I think if you properly maintain your trim it should be fine. Both my A6 and A4 get automatic car washes in the winter when the temperatures drop but the trim pieces all look fairly good. It's time consuming but the upkeep is worth it as those trim pieces are expensive to replace if they ever delaminate.
I'm not sure about car washes as each one is different and uses different formulations. I think if you properly maintain your trim it should be fine. Both my A6 and A4 get automatic car washes in the winter when the temperatures drop but the trim pieces all look fairly good. It's time consuming but the upkeep is worth it as those trim pieces are expensive to replace if they ever delaminate.
05-21-2011, 10:00 PM
#8
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Location: Calgary AB
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
JP Let me know if you have any success on that trim. I have an A5 Cab that has that trim as well and it gets water spots and is very difficult to maintain. I have waxed and rubbed it satisfactory but it comes back next wash. Would be nice if it wasn't so high maintenance. Looks nice when properly detailed though imo.
Len
Len
05-22-2011, 03:05 AM
#9
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Re: Cleaning chrome/aluminium window trim?
What products are you using? You need a buffing compound and then a wax protectant. Some compounds have the wax built in, but to do it in two separate stages will offer protection over a longer period of time.
