If you’ve been thinking of using GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer to bring life back to the faded plastic trim on your vehicle, hold up. I know the promise of restoring that deep, original look sounds enticing, especially when the product claims long-lasting effects and protection against UV rays, water, and scratches.
I’ll admit, it sounds like the perfect fix for those dulled-out plastic parts. But after looking through real user experiences and trying it out myself, there are some critical downsides you should know before you click “add to cart.”
Let’s explore what GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer delivers, where it falls short, and how it stacks up against other products in the market.
What GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer Claims To Do?
First, let’s see what GARAGEBULLS is promising. This plastic restorer claims to:
- Restore plastic, rubber, and vinyl surfaces to their original look
- Add a deep, lasting shine without an oily residue
- Offer up to a year of protection on interior surfaces and several months on exterior plastics
- Repel water and dirt with its hydrophobic coating
- Provide UV protection to prevent fading and deformation
In theory, this sounds amazing. The product markets itself as a ceramic coating rather than a temporary fix, with claims that it bonds at a molecular level for durability. The application is supposed to be easy and leave a natural, non-reflective finish.
All of these features sound good on paper, but the actual results seem to vary wildly.
My Experience With GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer
When I first tried GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer, I was optimistic. I’d read about its hydrophobic ceramic coating and UV protection, and my car’s faded trim needed a refresh.
Application was simple: I followed the instructions, applying it with the included sponge (which, unfortunately, disintegrated quickly), leaving me to switch to a microfiber cloth.
Initially, the results were impressive. The faded black trim regained its deep color, and I was pleased with the natural, non-greasy finish. The surface didn’t feel oily, and water beaded off nicely, suggesting that the hydrophobic effect was doing its job.
However, my excitement didn’t last. After a few weeks — and just one rainy day — the trim’s richness started fading. It looked dull again, as if I hadn’t applied anything.
I hoped the product’s advertised durability would hold up, but it quickly became clear that reapplication would be necessary far sooner than expected. For an exterior product, this felt like a letdown.
The small bottle size was another downside. Given that it needed frequent reapplications, I found myself going through it fast, which didn’t feel cost-effective. In comparison, I’ve used other products with better longevity and packaging quality for a similar price.
In the end, GARAGEBULLS did offer a short-lived improvement, but the lack of durability and the constant need for reapplication made it a product I wouldn’t buy again. For anyone looking for a long-term solution, there are definitely better options out there.
Pros of GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer
To be fair, GARAGEBULLS does deliver on some fronts. Here’s what worked well for me and a few others:
- Immediate Shine: Right after applying, the plastic looked noticeably better. The product brought out a darker, richer tone on the faded areas, which is what you’d want in a restorer.
- Hydrophobic Effect: The water-repelling feature does help keep surfaces looking cleaner initially, as rainwater and minor spills roll off instead of soaking in.
- Versatile Use: You can use GARAGEBULLS on various surfaces, including plastic, vinyl, and rubber. This makes it handy for different parts of your vehicle.
Despite these positives, however, the excitement fades fast once the product is tested in real-life conditions.
The Downsides: Where GARAGEBULLS Falls Short?
For every promising feature, there’s a practical flaw that makes GARAGEBULLS a tough sell. Here are the major issues:
- Short-Lived Results: Many users, myself included, saw that the “restoration” faded quickly, especially on exterior surfaces. Even though the bottle claims months of durability, most people noticed a drop-off in effectiveness after just a few weeks, especially if the vehicle was exposed to rain or sunlight.
- Poor Packaging: The bottle is surprisingly small, and it doesn’t go very far. The sponge that comes with the product often falls apart after minimal use, forcing you to find another applicator. This poor-quality packaging leaves much to be desired, especially given the price.
- Inconsistent Performance: Depending on the material and condition of the surface, results were inconsistent. Some plastics responded well, while others showed almost no difference, even after multiple applications.
- Not Budget-Friendly: Considering how fast the small bottle runs out and the lack of longevity in the results, it feels overpriced. A larger bottle would be more suitable given the number of applications most surfaces require.
Comparison With Other Brands
When comparing GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer to other popular plastic restorers, it’s clear that while GARAGEBULLS offers some benefits, it falls short in durability, especially on exterior surfaces. Let’s take a look at how it stacks up against a few other brands — Cerakote Trim Coat, 303 Aerospace Protectant, and Chemical Guys VRP — each known for their unique strengths in restoring and protecting plastic.
Cerakote Trim Coat
Cerakote Trim Coat is often praised for its durable ceramic-based formulation, designed to last for months rather than weeks, even on exterior surfaces.
Similar to GARAGEBULLS, Cerakote boasts a hydrophobic, UV-protective coating that repels water and prevents fading.
However, Cerakote is applied through pre-saturated wipes, which not only make the application easier but also provide a more even finish without the need for extra tools or sponges that can fall apart, as seen with GARAGEBULLS.
Pros:
- Long-lasting Results: Cerakote is known for a single application lasting up to six months on exterior surfaces, which makes it one of the most durable options.
- Ease of Use: The pre-saturated wipes simplify the process and ensure even coverage, reducing the chance of streaking or missed spots.
- True Hydrophobic Coating: Cerakote provides a strong water-repelling effect that holds up through rain and car washes.
Cons:
- Limited Application Range: Cerakote is primarily for exterior plastics, so it’s less suitable for interiors compared to GARAGEBULLS, which can be used on a broader range of materials.
Overall, Cerakote outshines GARAGEBULLS for exterior durability, especially if you’re looking for something that will last through the elements with minimal reapplication.
303 Aerospace Protectant
303 Aerospace Protectant is a versatile solution with a strong reputation for protecting plastics, rubber, and vinyl.
Unlike GARAGEBULLS, 303 is a water-based product that provides UV protection without an oily or glossy finish, making it ideal for those who prefer a matte, factory-fresh look.
While GARAGEBULLS claims a natural finish, some users report a slight sheen.
Pros:
- Exceptional UV Protection: 303 is often used for boats and outdoor equipment, so it’s highly effective at preventing UV-induced fading.
- Versatile Application: It can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces, including plastic, vinyl, and rubber, offering a bit more versatility than GARAGEBULLS.
- Natural Finish: 303 leaves a subtle, non-greasy finish that looks natural, without any stickiness or glossiness.
Cons:
- Moderate Longevity: While 303 performs well, it may require more frequent reapplication on high-exposure surfaces compared to Cerakote but still lasts longer than GARAGEBULLS.
- Less Hydrophobic: Although it resists dirt and dust, it doesn’t offer the same level of water repellency as Cerakote or GARAGEBULLS.
If you’re looking for a balanced product with superior UV protection and a natural finish, 303 Aerospace Protectant may be a better fit than GARAGEBULLS, especially for interior plastics and multi-material surfaces.
Chemical Guys VRP
Chemical Guys VRP (Vinyl, Rubber, and Plastic) is a popular choice for those who want a deep shine and versatility in a single product. VRP is known for adding a vibrant, glossy finish, so if you’re after a polished look, this might be a better option than GARAGEBULLS, which has a more subtle sheen.
Pros:
- High Gloss: VRP gives a deep, shiny finish that many users prefer for tires, trim, and interior plastics. Unlike GARAGEBULLS’ more matte approach, VRP provides a striking look.
- Multi-Surface Use: This product works effectively on vinyl, rubber, and plastic, making it versatile for various parts of the car, from trim to dashboards.
- Affordable: VRP is often more budget-friendly than GARAGEBULLS and goes a long way, making it cost-effective for regular use.
Cons:
- Shorter Lifespan: VRP doesn’t last as long on exterior surfaces, particularly in harsh weather conditions, so frequent reapplication is necessary.
- Greasy Finish on Some Surfaces: While VRP delivers a high gloss, it can leave a slightly greasy feel, which may attract dust and dirt more readily than GARAGEBULLS’ ceramic coating.
For those seeking a high-gloss finish on interior surfaces or a regular maintenance product for exterior plastics, VRP could be a better choice than GARAGEBULLS.
However, it requires more frequent applications if used outside.
How To Maintain Restored Plastic?
If you still decide to try GARAGEBULLS or another plastic restorer, proper maintenance is key to extending the effect. Here are some tips:
- Clean Surfaces Regularly: Keeping your car clean will prevent dirt and grime from accumulating on the treated surfaces. Use a mild soap to avoid stripping the coating.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Certain chemicals in cleaners and soaps can damage the hydrophobic layer. Stick to pH-neutral car soaps for washing.
- Reapply as Needed: Even if the product promises durability, real-world conditions will wear it down. Plan to reapply every 4-6 weeks, especially for exterior plastics.
- Store in Shade: UV exposure accelerates the fading process. If possible, park in the shade or use a car cover to reduce the impact of sunlight on treated surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The longevity depends on the product and the conditions it’s exposed to. High-quality restorers, like 303 Aerospace Protectant, can last up to a few months on exterior surfaces, while others might need reapplication every few weeks. GARAGEBULLS claims 6-12 months for interiors and a few months for exteriors, though real-life results are often shorter.
A plastic restorer revitalizes faded plastic surfaces by adding depth, shine, and color. It also protects against UV rays, dirt, and moisture, helping to prevent future fading and deterioration.
While WD-40 can add temporary shine to plastic, it’s not a dedicated plastic restorer. It won’t offer lasting UV protection or prevent fading, and the effect will wear off quickly. A dedicated restorer is a better choice for durable results.
Achieving a permanent restoration is challenging, but using a high-quality restorer with UV protection and regular reapplications can extend the life of black plastic trim. Ceramic coatings or specialized plastic restorers designed for durability are your best bet.
Final Thoughts
For the price, GARAGEBULLS Plastic Restorer is underwhelming. While it can provide an initial improvement, the effect fades fast, leaving you with dull plastic that needs another treatment in a few weeks. If you’re looking for a more durable solution, other brands offer better longevity and value.
Consider alternatives that offer consistent results across different surfaces and last longer on exterior applications.
