Removing ugly streaks from car vinyl surfaces is a simple job. You have several options available, depending on the seriousness of the situation; you can prepare a vinegar-based cleaning solution or buy a specific degreaser for the car interior. Spray the product on the surface and use a magic eraser to remove the marks. To handle the most serious scratches and blemishes, you can order a simple to use kit that allows you to restore the vinyl panel to perfect condition.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: with a Vinegar Based Solution and Magic Gum
Step 1. Make a vinegar-based home cleaner
If you don't want to buy a degreaser or commercial streak remover, you can try this technique first. Mix equal parts water and vinegar and pour the liquid into a clean spray bottle.
Step 2. Use the magic eraser to erase imperfections
Whether you buy a brand name or a generic product, you can find this sponge in the supermarket, home improvement store or home improvement center. This is the simplest and most effective tool to use when you need to remove scratches or marks of this type from vinyl; moreover, it does not wear out the material like abrasive sponges do.
Step 3. Spray the liquid on the area to be treated and scrub
Spread enough to wet the dirty part of the material and then use the magic eraser to clean, making long, even movements; when finished, remove any residue with a microfiber cloth.
Step 4. Try adding baking soda to the cleaning solution
To treat more pronounced or deeper marks, you need a slightly stronger abrasive action. Try to add a little baking soda to form a fluid dough; if you mixed 250 ml of water with the same vinegar, try pouring two or three tablespoons of baking soda. Mix everything until the powder remains in suspension.
Method 2 of 3: with the Degreaser for Superficial Marks
Step 1. Purchase a car interior degreaser
If you haven't already tried the home solution or want a professional detailing product, opt for a concentrated one; you can buy it in an auto parts store or hardware store.
Since it is a concentrated substance, you need to dilute it when you are ready to use it
Step 2. Pour one part of degreaser into four of water
When you opt for a commercial product, you need to dilute it before applying it to the vinyl elements of the car; then mix one part with four of water and transfer it to a clean spray bottle.
Step 3. Spread the cleaner over the area to be cleaned and scrub
Apply the diluted degreaser or home solution directly on the strips; then rub with the magic eraser making fluid and constant movements until the imperfection is gone.
To treat tight spaces where you can't spray, apply the cleaner to the sponge; if it's an inaccessible spot even for the magic eraser, switch to a stiff-bristled toothbrush
Step 4. Replace the magic eraser if necessary
The texture of the vinyl surface determines the number of sponges you need. For smoother panels, one is usually enough; if the material is rougher or similar to rubber, it is likely that you will have to wear several sponges and have to replace them until the mark has completely disappeared.
Step 5. Remove any residue with a microfiber cloth
When you remove the streaks, the surface becomes covered with traces of detergent and light fragments; remove them with a dry microfiber cloth, which also offers the advantage of not leaving lint.
Method 3 of 3: Treating Deep Scratches and Scratches
Step 1. Purchase a complete scratch removal kit
Consider getting a professional one, in case the swipe isn't limited to a single surface mark or if the vinyl is scratched. The package includes a glue to fill deep incisions, an activator to dry the adhesive and a color identical to that of the vinyl panel.
You can order the kit online at a cost of 45-50 euros. The dye should have the same pigment code as the car manufacturer's so that it blends well with the rest of the interior. When ordering the kit, you can search online based on the model and year of manufacture of your vehicle to identify the exact color code
Step 2. Sand the scratched area
Use a sheet of 220-grit sandpaper to smooth the area that is scored or damaged by the streak; try to remove any rough edges surrounding the damage so that the edges are flush with the rest of the panel.
Some kits also come with emery paper. If you don't have any fine-grained paper handy, you can make sure the box contains some before ordering
Step 3. Clean the surface after sanding
Rub it with a damp cloth and, if the area is greasy or dirty, clean it with a homemade vinegar solution or commercial car interior cleaner. then dry with a microfibre cloth.
Step 4. Apply some glue to the scratch and smear it
If the plastic is still wet after washing it, wait until it is completely dry before applying the adhesive; drop a small amount of the super glue included in the kit and spread a smooth layer of it using a thin spatula.
If the kit contains the activator, apply it to the glue to harden it instantly
Step 5. Sand and clean the glue when it is dry
If you have not used the activator, wait until the adhesive is perfectly dry and smooth it with a sheet of 220 grit sandpaper to smooth the surface; when finished, clean the area with a damp cloth and dry it with a microfiber cloth.
Step 6. Apply several light coats of dye of the same shade as the factory one
Typically, it is in the form of a spray product; spread a light, even layer over the repair, making sure to place a piece of cardboard under the area to protect adjacent surfaces. Wait for the paint to dry and repeat this until you get optimal coverage.
