Removing spots on chrome trim

[LelandGray]

My 2007 Maxda CX-9 has chrome trim everywhere.. around all the windows, along the front bumper, and along the back on the trunk. It doesn't look like it was every cared for, and there are tons of water spots and they actually look like what I would consider slight surface rust.

How would I go about cleaning the trim? Would I have to tape off everything around the trim? After cleaning, how do I protect the trim?

I'll try to get a picture if I can.

[speed3blackmica]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

i am pretty framiliar with the CX-9 and the chrome trim it has...it doesnt sound too bad, just normal wear and tear on chrome...so id say just give it a good wash and be sure to thoroughly wash the chrome, then after you've dried everything..get some hot rims chrome polish, and work it in good, and then wipe off, it will restore the chrome's gloss by almost 100%

here it is..

[LelandGray]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

Should I tape off areas around the chome trim, so as to not get the Chrome Polish on the windows, paint, etc?

[StadiumDetail]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

#0000 steel wool. Pick it up at your local super-mart where they sell paint and sandpaper. Use light pressure and it will easily remove all spots from the chrome trim. It is very safe to use and a great tool to have for detailing chrome, but I would still pick up the polish mentioned above for lighter jobs since it is a little less aggressive.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

Should I tape off areas around the chome trim, so as to not get the Chrome Polish on the windows, paint, etc?

If the chrome is badly spotted and you're going to be working pretty aggressively to correct it, then masking is a good idea. Otherwise, just getting a little of the Chrome Polish on the paint isn't going to hurt anything.

[LelandGray]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

When using the steel wool, do you just use it plain as-is? Or do you wet it? or use a Meguiars product along with it? Or do you rub it with steel wool first THEN go back with the polish and then wax?

I'll probably try the polish first.

[StadiumDetail]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

When using the steel wool, do you just use it plain as-is? Or do you wet it? or use a Meguiars product along with it? Or do you rub it with steel wool first THEN go back with the polish and then wax?

I'll probably try the polish first.

I personally just use the steel wool, some people use glass cleaner as a sort of lubricant like you would a clay bar, others use it with the polish to add extra cut. Really it is anyway that works best for you and what you are cleaning.

Try the polish first if that is what you are comfortable with, but I promise you the #0000 (and make sure it is #0000) wool doesn't have a learning curve and is extreemly easy to use. Simply rub it on the spot you want to polish and keep rubbing till it shines like new. Sound too good to be true I know, but it really is that simple. Only thing to be aware of is to only use it on chrome, not on any other metal and especially not aluminum or paint since it will scratch.

[Gigi]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

There are spots from an unknown origin on the front & back chrome on my 2011 Honda CR-V. Wondering if the #0000 steel wool would remove the spots, any other suggestions?

[ksk93]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

I have used Plastx and head good results as well. Are there any downsides to using it?

[Blueline]

Re: Removing spots on chrome trim

Using steel wool, even 0000, would scare the heck out of me.