Every year across America millions of car bodies suffer from a noticeable condition called “polymer degradation” (PD). For many vehicles, the symptoms are as subtle as a slightly faded bumper. Others experience more serious signs like cracked trim or molding around their windows or wheel wells. And, if you operate a vehicle in an area that’s prone to excessive heat, sunlight, or air pollution, and it’s more than 5 years old, its exterior is probably already showing signs of PD. What exactly is polymer degradation, and is it preventable?
As they relate to the auto industry, polymers are large manmade molecules that are chemically bonded together to create materials used for vehicle body components. Polymer materials include rubber, vinyl, and various plastics, and end up in exterior car parts like:
Design engineers use polymers to improve a vehicle exteriors:
You’ve probably noticed that some vehicles have more polymers incorporated into their designs than others, and oftentimes those parts are left unpainted for added curb appeal. Unfortunately, all polymers- painted or not- are vulnerable to environmental forces that can cause polymer degradation.
Because of their composition, polymers tend to break down faster than the surrounding metal body panels when exposed to certain elements like sunlight, air pollution, road tar, oxygen, grime, and oil. And if your car sits outside in the heat and direct sunlight for lengthy periods of time, polymer degradation is accelerated due to a process known as “photodegradation”. Photodegradation is caused primarily by the sun’s UV rays and can speed up the degradation process caused by other forces including the ones mentioned above.
When a car’s body part, like a bumper, is made from a polymer and starts to degrade, it causes premature aging to that part which further leads to:
Black polymer trim materials experiencing PD will start showing a faded gray look. PD is oftentimes confused with detailing polish, wax, or sealants that have been mistakenly allowed to dry on the polymer’s surface, leaving a chalky residue. And, that’s a whole different topic. In addition to just plain looking bad and compromising the intended function of the affected part(s), PD can also reduce the afflicted vehicle’s resale value.
The good news is that polymer degradation is oftentimes preventable if you’re willing to invest the necessary time, elbow grease, and money. The important thing is to consistently and continually maintain the plastic, rubber, and vinyl surfaces of your car. That means keeping those areas clean of dirt, tar, dust, and other road debris, along with applying the right detailing product, based upon the material, to leave a layer of protection. And finally, keeping your car out of direct sunlight as much as possible is important.
Certain detergents used for car washing are too strong for polymers, and can actually speed up the degradation process. Cheaper detailing products sold at big box stores may not be the best either, so read the labels carefully before applying those to your vehicle. For unpainted plastic parts, some of the best surface restorers and protectants are:
With-the-exception-of Armor All, which will need to be used more frequently, the other products should deliver reliable protection for up to 12 months after application. If any of your painted plastic parts, notable bumpers, have already started to noticeably fade, you may want to have them repainted by a pro.
Unfortunately, many vehicles end up experiencing polymer degradation. If it’s happened to your car or truck, take it to a nearby auto body shop in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Technicians there have the professional detailing products, experience, and know-how to restore your vehicle’s polymer features like-new again promptly, reliably, and affordable. If you have areas that need to be repainted, they can expertly tackle that too!
Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.
