How to remove tree sap stains from plastic trim

ARK

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So I think the plastic trim between my windshield and my hood has been stained by tree sap. Is there any way to remove this? I’ve previously been able to remove tree sap from the paint and glass without much issue using alcohol wipes. But there isn’t really any tree sap here, just what I think is discoloration left over from it. Any advice?

Ford Mustang Mach-E How to remove tree sap stains from plastic trim IMG_2405
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RickMachE

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Ford Mustang Mach-E How to remove tree sap stains from plastic trim flame1-DBXRED
 

joebruin77

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I would first try cleaning it with a stronger automotive all purpose cleaner such as Optimum Power Clean, diluted 3 to 1.

If that doesn’t work, I would then try a plastic trim restorer. I don’t have personal experience with specific plastic trim restorer products, but here is a review from a respected and unbiased YouTube detailing expert. I would use whichever one he rated the highest:

 
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ARK

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I would first try cleaning it with a stronger automotive all purpose cleaner such as Optimum Power Clean, diluted 3 to 1.

If that doesn’t work, I would then try a plastic trim restorer. I don’t have personal experience with specific plastic trim restorer products, but here is a review from a respected and unbiased YouTube detailing expert. I would use whichever one he rated the highest:

Thank you, I’ll check this out. I had no luck with my various all purpose automotive cleaners.
 


GreaseMonkey

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So I think the plastic trim between my windshield and my hood has been stained by tree sap. Is there any way to remove this? I’ve previously been able to remove tree sap from the paint and glass without much issue using alcohol wipes. But there isn’t really any tree sap here, just what I think is discoloration left over from it. Any advice?

IMG_2405.jpeg
Does it look faded to you? The picture makes it look faded. Honestly, if a plastic part was meant to get damaged, I’d pick this one.
 

CameraCarl

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On other vehicles with black plastic trim I have used Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer with decent results.
 

johnnycombo

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I use extang Tonno Tonic, the same product I use on my truck tonneau cover, it works great and lasts for months. You can find it at Walmart or your local auto parts store.
 
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LeanneL

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On other vehicles with black plastic trim I have used Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer with decent results.
Was just going to mention this! This stuff is awesome. I used it on my husbands Omni GLH and it made it look amazing!
 
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kindofblue

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So I think the plastic trim between my windshield and my hood has been stained by tree sap. Is there any way to remove this? I’ve previously been able to remove tree sap from the paint and glass without much issue using alcohol wipes. But there isn’t really any tree sap here, just what I think is discoloration left over from it. Any advice?

IMG_2405.jpeg
Let us know what you decide on and how well it works please.
 
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ARK

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Thank you all for the suggestions and especially @CameraCarl as I purchased the Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer for under $10.

Here is the before and after shot right after I applied it yesterday evening.

Before:

Ford Mustang Mach-E How to remove tree sap stains from plastic trim IMG_2458


After:

Ford Mustang Mach-E How to remove tree sap stains from plastic trim IMG_2459


For the low price and minimal effort, I am shocked at how much of a difference it made. I think I still may need to clean it up one more time, but it looks almost brand new.

Tagging @GreaseMonkey and @kindofblue for asking for more pics (no didn’t look really faded)/how it turned out.
 
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CameraCarl

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Thank you all for the suggestions and especially @CameraCarl as I purchased the Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer for under $10.

Here is before and after shot right after I applied it yesterday evening.

Before:

IMG_2458.jpeg


After:

IMG_2459.jpeg


For the low price and minimal effort, I am shocked at how much of a difference it made. I think I still made need to clean it up one more time, but it looks almost brand new.

Tagging @GreaseMonkey and @kindofblue for asking for more pics (no didn’t look really faded)/how it turned out.
I'm glad I could help.
 
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