I just finished waxing my 450h today, and I was wondering if anyone can suggest what to use to clean the insert (I think of it as a step but it is designed to protect the top of the bumper from damage when loading the trunk) on the top of the rear bumper. I tried searching the detailing forum but had no luck. Would something as simple as Armor All work without causing any damage? Regular car wax?

 

I've used Armor All on this type of plastic before and it works fine.

I seriously want to put film on that bumper though, but can't find anyone who sells precuts. I might have to settle with a plain rectangular piece and trim to fit.

 

You dont really need to clean it. But in my experience, the black plastic eventually turns white, and all you need is a little mothers back to black.

 

Waxing it is the last thing you want to do to that piece. The wax will get into the texture and will turn white, not good. I personally don't care for Armor All as it leaves a greasy residue that attracts dirt.

I just use a 100% cotton towel with a little dish washing liquid in the water. If you have wax residual in that piece, I have used paint thinner and a tooth brush to get it out. Tape off the surrounding area with painters tape so you don't remove the wax from those areas.

 

I apply it and wipe it down with a damp wrung cloth afterward to remove any excess that would cause the condition you describe. Been using it for almost forty years like this...

 

I've used Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant on all the textured plastic on the exterior. Nice patina, not greasy and doesn't seem to wash off right away. Nor does it streak after getting wet.

Wipe it on and wipe off the excess. Haven't used it for a long time, so I'm not sure about long term color retention of the plastic. I think UP may have ultraviolet protection, which would help.

Check the Meguiar's web site for further details.

Good luck,

 

Thanks for the responses and info. I appreciate it.