Cleaning & Polishing Black Anodised Trim ?

[jefrs]

Can anyone suggest the best way to clean and polish up black-anodised aluminium trim e.g. the roof bars ?

I am not looking for a full restoration solution, just make them look nice rather than faded to grey.

I am aware that the anodised black finish is thin and objects to harsh metal polish, besides - that's what looks like has been used on them in the past. Enough with the abrasives then.

TIA, Jefrs

 

[DRBC43AMG]

Like jefrs, I have a similar problem with my C240T. I would like to get a nice satin finish on all the aluminium trim especially the window surrounds. Much appreciate some tips from the specialists around here

 

[millo777]

I've used autoglym bumper and trim gel (Used to called "bumper care") on the roof bars on my w124 and they came up amazingly well, same with the anodised trim around the tailgate window. It lasts 3-4 months before it needs doing again, but it only takes seconds. Squeeze some onto a cloth and wipe it on. Job done. Perfect satin finish.

I'm aware of much more expensive, and probably beter products, out there, gtechniq C4 gets good reviews, as does "303 aerospace protectant" also gets mentioned at a lot. I haven't used either of these, but they are worth investigating.

Check out Car Care Products | Detailing Products | UK - Clean Your Car for other ideas.

 

[LTD]

I'd be very tempted to remove them and have them powder coated

 

[C43AMG]

I have had to resort to buying new from the Stealership for my CL.

They are the window rails, they where in such bad condition that I had them colour coded, which worked for a few months then the paint has started to lift . So I have bitten the bullet and gone for new, they look great.

 

[DRBC43AMG]

Thanks, now powder coating could be a good and longer lasting solution

 

[jefrs]

Thanks, now powder coating could be a good and longer lasting solution

I did have a bicycle frame powder coated, it looks like enamel paint. It was only £25 incl the shot/bead/sand/wotever blasting. It is tough but that is not the look I want on anodised black roof bars (estate).

The car is 14yo, so buying new ones is out of the question.

I have managed to bring them up nicely with Comma Trim-Black after washing. But I have done this before and it soon fades. I shall try sealing and waxing this time ...

 

[LTD]

I did have a bicycle frame powder coated, it looks like enamel paint.

Have a chat with your local wheel refurbishes

Some of the shadow/smoke finishes they do are rather nice.