Best automotive vinyl care products according to redditors

Hey guys just wanted to drop off some results for Lexol vinyl protector spray. The heart vernis cles is a bottom tier ioffer rep and the toiletries is fubar888's mid tier rep. I think the sheen substantially improves the look! I might make a guide with some befores/afters for some rep care/results if I get some more protectors/cleansers.

This was my first attempt at engine detailing and I think it went pretty well! I covered some of the electrical components (alternator, battery terminals, etc) and proceeded with the typical spray down of water, followed by a good misting of APC, followed by agitation with a Solo Horton brush, and rounded out with another misting of water. I finished the process by drying the engine bay with a leaf blower and a coating of 303 Aerospace Protectant. Looks good to me!


Products Used:

• Meguiar's D101 (4:1 dilution)
  
• 303 Aerospace Protectant
  
• Solo Horton #10 Brush
  

>Should I clay bar and/or wax windows?

Yes. I clay my windows, especially my windshield, every 2-3 weeks. I use Stoner's Invisible Glass cleaner. And I use Aquapel instead of wax on my windows because it last much much longer.

>Should I wax plastic (unpainted, rough texture, black) exterior trim? If not, what product to protect this?

No. I like to use 303 Aerospace Protectant

>Should I clay bar and/or wax headlights? I'm pretty sure I've read that this is a yes, and I did this time, but just checking.

Yes. I would be a little hesitant about the clay marring plastic headlights though. Since they are much softer than paint/glass.

>How do I know when a clay bar needs replacing?

When it starts to look dirty. After you finish claying a section fold the clay over on itself then start the next section. When are you reshaping between sections and you aren't able to find a clean spot of clay, it's time for a new piece. And if you drop it on the ground pick it up and throw it right in the garbage.

I use Meguiar's rubber & vinyl cleaner/conditioner on my VDrum pads and my car. Great stuff. Makes them look new again and keeps them from drying out.

Just spray on and rub down with a microfiber cloth or any other soft cloth that doesn't leave fibers behind.

So far, so good with this stuff:

Lexol E301126000 Vinylex Protectant, 16.9 oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002KKHS8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zpVtDbZK101WC

Use it on all our cars, best thing I've found for all the black plastic bits.

What kind of convertible top do you have, vinyl or cloth? I use the following on my S2000 top and rubber seals:

• Raggtopp Convertible Top Care Kit - Vinyl
  
• 303 Rubber Seal Protectant

I am in the UK and I got this on amazon

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000BO4WZY/ref=pe_3187911_189395841_TE_3p_dp_1

Some of this depends on how funky your interior is. I use APC for tougher stains (diluted). I use InnerClean by CG for removing dust and light stains, and it does smell like Pineapple, but the smell goes away very quickly.

I would try a car scent if you want to get away from fruity smells, something like New Car Smell by CG.

Cloth Seats - Give them a good vacuum and go over any spots with a cloth and cleaner.

APC has the ability to be diluted for all types of tasks, and sometimes the manufacturers are helpful and put them on the side of the bottle. It can be dialed down for interior use and use full strength for the nasties you find in your engine/wheels.

Scratches showing through the clearcoat and the paint will require touch up paint. That white color is most likely your primer. Compounding will not remove this.

EDIT: Saw the seats are cloth.

Ohh I see! By the way is the right one to buy? Lexol 1215 Vinylex Protectant, 16.9-oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002KKHS8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MtFUzbYZ8GHB7 and by the way dumb question but will this only look good on dark canvas or will it help my neverfull damier azur have the shine a bit too :)

Chemical guys interior cleaner. It’s yellow and smells like bananas/ pina colada and it gets all the dust and grime right off, doesn’t leave a slick film like armorall does

Chemical Guys SPI_663_16 InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant (16 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008LPEZ6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gpHUBb09ET6CM


Their stain remover is also amazing too. Really anything they make is super high quality

Had the same issue. Putting a little rubber cleaner on the rubber seams every few months has helped.

Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner/Conditioner – Restores Life and Color – M4016, 16 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SQYV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Y9e6CbEWT87FE

So, the problem with DHGate is that there are so many flops out there. Its a hard lesson to learn. I've done it, sometimes on purpose because I'm a glutton for punishment LOL. There are a couple good sellers. Fubar has average quality and OC does actually have a DHGate storefront as well. I feel like though, mostly as a rep noob, its best to steer clear of DHGate/Aliexpress because its very easy to overpay for something that is not that great.

Conversely with a trusted seller you'll get a good product, sure you might overpay, relatively speaking, because you didn't comparison shop enough, but it will less likely be a subpar rep.

I clicked on your DHGate link and while the neverfull is not the worst, I do feel like you overpaid. There was a review I commented on yesterday where she paid $80. I've paid $80-$90 for a 3A neverfull as well. I think the biggest thing that stood out to me was the interior color, its way purple.

Anyway - to speed up patina you can use neatsfoot oil (my preference) and the glazing can be fixed with rejuvenate wood furniture markers - mahogany or walnut color. For canvas sheen, I use nuvinyl

Tire covers! They also sell UV protecting spray for tires. I’ll edit with a link!



Edit: Like this

Hey!

I also have a GTI as well and I use the Chemical Guys InnerClean and I really like it. It smells really good, it cleans and protects your interior(Dashboard, center council, doors etc). It also have a matte finish(OEM look) when you wipe it off, I think it's really ugly when the dashboard is all shiny like it does with armorall products.

For your plaid seats, it doesn't really matter if your seats are heated or not. My first suggestion would be to do steam cleaning if possible and if it's really dirty. If not, you can buy AMMONYC Shag Fabric cleaner. In this video, Larry(AMMONYC owner) shows multiple methods on how to clean cloth seats.

For your salt stains the solution is very cheap, again follow our leader Larry's video. After using the vinegar solution, I would let it dry for few days and then I would clean the seats after that with the product I mentioned above for your seats.

Mother’s vinyl cleaner is great! Mothers Vinyl, Leather & Rubber (VLR) Care (24 oz.) Bundle with Microfiber Cloth (2 Items) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L2O5YUS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BauqDb1R0YN2P

If you want the edges to stay give it a hit with a heat gun all around especially on the edges. Also if you want cleaner cuts get a kit like this happy wrapping. :)

okay so like the comment below 303 is simple and easy. I don"t use it much as its not readily available here in Toronto.

Things i do use:

For the dash board and any plastic inside the car i use:

https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-05324-Protectant-24-oz/dp/B0007RDVGG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487704916&sr=8-1&keywords=mothers+interior

OR

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G13616-Interior-Detailer-Cleaner/dp/B000AMLWH8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705281&sr=8-1&keywords=meguiars%2Binterior%2Bcleaner&th=1

For the carpets i do 2 thing when i am in a hurry ill use:

https://www.amazon.com/Turtle-Wax-50572-Rubber-Cleaner/dp/B00PKE6NNY/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1487704985&sr=8-12&keywords=turtle+wax+interior+cleaner

Just spray some on the carpet and after a quick vacuum then do a good vacuum job this can take like 30 mins once you get the hang of it.

when i have time i use:

https://www.amazon.com/BISSELL-1400B-Multi-Purpose-Portable-Cleaner/dp/B0016HF5GK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705069&sr=8-2&keywords=bissell+little+green

The second method is simple just follow the instructions it came with and this item usually goes on sale there are better ones that keep the water heated.

They also both give the car a nice smell after cleaning i don't have leather seats so i can say much about it.

as for windows there 2 steps i do as well:

I use

https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Glass-Premium-Cleaner-91164/dp/B0007OWD2M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705440&sr=8-2&keywords=invisible+glass

Then polish the exterior and where is no tint with

https://www.amazon.com/3M-800002242-RAIN-X-WINDSHIELD-TREATMENT-3-5/dp/B000WNED08/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705503&sr=8-13&keywords=rain+x+glass+cleaner

The second step is a bit tedious so if you are not comfortable stick with step 1.

The thing that also really good to have is good clothes for cleaning the more the better Micro fibre cloth's are the best.

https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-POLISHING/dp/B0166U4PVC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705636&sr=8-1&keywords=micro+fiber+rag+company

and for glass:

https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Microfiber-Professional-STREAK-FREE/dp/B00WC5KQGE/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1487705755&sr=8-5&keywords=rag+company+glass

After wiping the class with step one and then its dry i usually just follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to pick up any little dirt i left behind.

If i left anything behind let me know ill make a full post once summer comes around with maybe a video of sorts but there is alot of information also to r/autodetailing wiki post and sorry for the format if its not up to standards this is my first long post.

I have been using THIS for my interior (dashboard and door panels). So far I am liking it.

I heard positive reviews of 303 Spray

Which one do you recommend? Or is there any product more best bang for my buck?

Thank you!

http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Rubber-Cleaner-Conditioner/dp/B0002SQYV4

I had that same top on my last 72 Bronco, and I loved it more than my hard top. I was referred this stuff to clean and protect it with no issues. I would highly recommend it...

Raggtopp Convertible Top Vinyl Cleaner & Protectant Kit 16 ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002KKJ1I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_82AHDbW27J6ZY

The side windows are prone to scratches, so store them flat if you can if you take them off.

The rear window rolls up into the top, and you are going to want to clean any dirt and debrit off prior to rolling it up. Any dirt left on there will rub in between the rolled layers. I used this stuff on the windows... It's like glass cleaner, but meant for plastic windows

Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant and Polish (13-Ounce) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00092CKN4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_m7AHDb0STJCPP

If you take care of that top, it'll last you a long time. They're really well made.

Call me crazy, but I really like Chemical Guys Inner Clean and I use it whenever I detail a car. It gives off a matte, factory finish. Do not order from their site, order on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-SPI_663_16-InnerClean-Protectant/dp/B008LPEZ6Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409425318&sr=8-1&keywords=Inner+Clean

https://www.amazon.com/Leather-Vinyl-Cleaner-Friendly-Interior/dp/B078XLF6RK/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=salon+chair+cleaner&qid=1567445294&s=gateway&sprefix=salon+chair+cle&sr=8-4

Would definitely stay away from ArmorAll stuff as it seems to be lower quality and greasy -- maybe Aerospace Protectant 303 or Meguiars if you're going that route.

Just dropping by to leave this link - this cleaner is incredible on my seats. Not sure where you're at in the world, but if this product isn't available, I'm sure if you found one with similar ingredients, it'd work like a charm.

I like the AMMO Plum wheel cleaner. Also a set of wheel woolies.

I really like this stuff in the interior. And a set of these brushes for detailing in and out. Stock up on microfiber.

Also, AMMO makes a spray called hydrate that is used when drying the car. I like the stuff.

if its coated canvas, I have seen many people recommending Lexol Vinylex. I literally just ordered mine for $8 from Amazon for my Pochette Metis:) Here is the link:

https://www.amazon.com/Lexol-E301126000-Vinylex-Protectant-16-9/dp/B0002KKHS8/ref=pd_cp_469_1?pd_rd_w=7vBm7&pf_rd_p=ef4dc990-a9ca-4945-ae0b-f8d549198ed6&pf_rd_r=P86XHHZC0JKHR54D4KCT&pd_rd_r=74b9cda1-694d-491c-b273-abd93477d39b&pd_rd_wg=tqRlG&pd_rd_i=B0002KKHS8&psc=1&refRID=P86XHHZC0JKHR54D4KCT

Check out Lexol Vinylex - it’s a cleaner and protectant in one. Have been using it for years and already done my model 3 seats. Looks great - gives the seats a bit of a lustre without being too wet or slick looking. Just apply it sparingly on a Microfiber and wipe it into the seats until the finish looks uniform. A little goes a long way. You can do all the trim and dash with it as well! I swear I don’t work for these guys just really happy with the product.
https://www.amazon.com/Lexol-E301126000-Vinylex-Protectant-16-9/dp/B0002KKHS8

I absolutely love inner clear from CHEMICAL Guys..

Chemical Guys SPI_663_16 InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant (16 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008LPEZ6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JDcDCbYWZEGWV

Griot's Garage would be my go to general interior cleaner. Virtually no odor, no residue and cleans phenomenally.

Chemical Guys make a decent product as well. I wouldn't say it's an as effective cleaner as Griot's but does offer UV protection. CG's cleaner does have a fruity smell (fades after a few hours) and is colored as well.

Haven't had to use it in the BRZ (thankfully) but in past cars and friends, for the suuuuper filthy or large stains, Tuff Stuff's Foam Cleaner is a go to.

Other than that, compressed air for the nooks and crannies.

I got the 2011, same color, package two, a few months after starting my first job out of college. I love it. You're going to love it. Perfect for commutes, perfect for weekend trips, perfect for toting people around (the back seats are surprisingly roomy!), perfect for hiding things in that little section underneath the trunk (I hide smelly gym stuff in there, and it contains the smell!).

this interior spray has become a favorite product of mine. Once a week, just spray it on a lint free rag and wipe the dash, wheel, and all the plastic areas up front to keep the car feeling super nice.

CG Inner Clean for that OEM look.

Not leather specific, but I use this on everything interior with great results and a wonderful smell!

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-SPI_663_16-InnerClean-Protectant/dp/B008LPEZ6Q

Both this https://www.amazon.com/Adams-Polishes-L015-Interior-Detailer/dp/B006MYFB9S and chemical guys quick shine interior have a fruity smell but I'm almost positive it's either this or meguirs tire shine your smelling. Also Adams polishes quick detailer also smells like grape/purple, I call it purple flavor because it smells more like purple icees than it does grape. Also seriously Adams polishes and products are amazing and they're constantly having sales on their website if you sign up for their email list. I use only Adams and dodo juice and maybe a few chemical guys products as what I use as a second job as a detailer (my own business). Adams is just as good as chemical guys for half the price.

How does Adam's VRT compare to the 303 Protectant I've seen recommended?

http://www.amazon.com/303-Products-THR030350-Protectant-oz/dp/B003KV2A04/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1375717595&sr=1-4

I used this: http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Rubber-Cleaner-Conditioner/dp/B0002SQYV4 on my interior and it happened to get onto some of the matte finish near the shifter which caused some streaking.

They're now stuck: http://i.imgur.com/mTbYAsi.jpg

Any suggestions to even this out?

For your dash and your plastic trim use this: Turtle Wax T-97R F21 Super Protectant - 20.8 oz. You can buy it online or at any store. I use this product mostly on the dash, since it is the one that gets the most sun.
For your leather trim and steering I use Meguiar's #40 Vinyl/Rubber Cleaner 16 oz. change microfiber towels between chemicals.

I'm a fan of their Natural finish detailer. It's inexpensive and can be found pretty much everywhere in a pinch. Leaves absolutely no shine, removes wax stains from rubber trim and I suspect it has some sort of antistatic properties because I don't see dust accumulate on surfaces very easily after wiping down the interior.

Wow, never knew that existed, but after reading it, it appears to have some great uses and reviews. You can use it on carpet/fabric stains too! I think there are a lot of products out there that are very good. I used armor-all original and armor-all leather, but condensed to just NuVinyl to do both. It is from the NuFinish company. I am not saying it is the greatest or better, but it is cheaper then the turtle wax. It is not available everywhere, but here is a link to it on Amazon if you havent seen it.