Need help with faux aluminum trim (Toyota)

G

gdal

New member
Guys,



I have a 2006 toyota highlander and the fake aluminum trim has some etching probably caused by improper cleaning. The stains look darker than the rest of the trim, but color has not been affected.



I was thinking about using plastx but the instructions state that it can't be used on painted surfaces. I don't if these surfaces are actually painted.



What do you guys recommend? Has anyone encounter the same issue while detailing a Highlander?



Thanks

Gianni
 
Not knowing exactly what you are dealing with - finish, damage, etc. - I might suggest lightly applying an AIO on a MF to see if this gets you some relief.



Andy
 
its kinda like the BMW fake aluminum trim...I couldn't get anything to work! I tried a polish, a wax, an AIO, a compound, two different metal polishes both by hand and machine...nothing would take out water spotting



if you find an answer, post up
 
toyotaguy said:
its kinda like the BMW fake aluminum trim...I couldn't get anything to work! I tried a polish, a wax, an AIO, a compound, two different metal polishes both by hand and machine...nothing would take out water spotting



if you find an answer, post up
Click to expand...



Well the PlastX did wonders with all the etching on my cluster plastic (even though it took me 2 hrs all together), but it didn't do anything to the fake aluminum. I think i made it worst, but I quickly stopped and wiped it with 303. Now it looks like before ... I guess the only way of fixing this is by painting it??



Let me know if you ever find something that fixes the etching.
 
BTW ... is this trim plastic or aluminum?? I was cleaning the piece that is right above the glove compartment and it flexed like metal.
 
I did more research online last night and I found in one of the bimmer forums that I guy solved his trim etching issue with the same cleaner use at home to wipe and protect stainless steel appliances.



I really wanna try it but I don't wanna screw it up more.



BTW ... When I was polishing the trim my mf was full of black residue like it was removing a protective coating.
 
THe it likely has. I might head to Target and grab the Method eco-frienly SS cleaner. Might be a little safer??



Andy
Gianni D said:
I did more research online last night and I found in one of the bimmer forums that I guy solved his trim etching issue with the same cleaner use at home to wipe and protect stainless steel appliances.



I really wanna try it but I don't wanna screw it up more.



BTW ... When I was polishing the trim my mf was full of black residue like it was it was removing a protective coating.
Click to expand...
 
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