Caring for rubber window and door molding?

[sdp122366]

What is the best way to care for rubber around the windows and doors on my car? It is 10 years old and the rubber is starting to show wear and I want to try and revitalize it and protect it to extend its life.

[Murr1525]

I tend to alternate between a silicone spray I got from the dealer that was recommended and a Meguiars dressing like All Season Dressing, etc.

I'll use one, couple months later use the other, couple months later use the first one...

[Brian Hann]

To really clean the rubber moldings...
Gold Class Leather & Vinyl Cleaner


If you are looking to dress/protect the moldings you can certainly use your favorite vinyl & rubber product, but you may want to consider...
Ultimate Protectant

[Abri]

I have found that using the Ultimate Protectant on the rubber window surrounds leaves streak marks. Am I leaving it on too long? I also don't want to wipe off too quickly as it won't have time to properly saturate the rubber. Or is this a misconception. It is also difficult to appkly it on such a narrow area without sometimes fouling the surrounding painted area. Once the Ultimate Protectant dries on the paint it is very difficult to remove.

[h_bomm]

you could always use automitive masking tape and tape off any area you don't want to get your protectant on

[imz4n]

I use #39 to clean and #40 to protect the light rubber ( water and wind seals ). I use the ultimate protectent on the hard rubber seals around the window. The plastic (smooth ) trim I use the spray quick wax.

[h_bomm]

how well would trim & tire gel work

[CKL]

Hi guys,
I have a similar query. My exterior rubber door and window mouldings on my 12 yr old car have been getting a whole lot of stains/spots that look like some sort of mould! Probably from parking under certain trees at home?
I've tried a rubber polish and it rejuvenates the dark black colour but doesn't really remove the mouldy spots I'm talking about. Any other product I can try?
Would degreaser, tar remover or WD40 work without damaging rubber?
Cheers

[BillE]

Hi guys,
I have a similar query. My exterior rubber door and window mouldings on my 12 yr old car have been getting a whole lot of stains/spots that look like some sort of mould! Probably from parking under certain trees at home?
I've tried a rubber polish and it rejuvenates the dark black colour but doesn't really remove the mouldy spots I'm talking about. Any other product I can try?
Would degreaser, tar remover or WD40 work without damaging rubber?
Cheers

You can try using some APC (any brand) and a VERY soft tooth brush (like a child's variety) and gently scrubby scrubby. It is tedious, but for me, it worked. Then apply a rubber dressing, again your choice.

Just to clairify...I used to live in Seattle, and we were ALWAYS fighting mold growth because of the damp weather there.

Bill

[CKL]

You can try using some APC (any brand) and a VERY soft tooth brush (like a child's variety) and gently scrubby scrubby. It is tedious, but for me, it worked. Then apply a rubber dressing, again your choice.

Just to clairify...I used to live in Seattle, and we were ALWAYS fighting mold growth because of the damp weather there.

Bill

Thanks for the advice Bill. I'm not sure if its mould but I think it is some sort of mould stain. Will try the soft tooth brush some time. Ta