Vinyl Care

   Vinyl is commonly used throughout the interior of your vehicle. Vinyl is a type of plastic that can be made to be very flexible. That's why vinyl is commonly used for door panels and arm rests. It's soft enough to be stamped with designs, textures or mock seams. You'll also see thick grades of vinyl used on stiff arm rests found on door panels, as well as the steering wheel and column.

     Caring for your vinyl is really very easy. You really only have two steps. Cleaning and protecting. We'll get into both steps in just a minute, but I want you to realize that the cleaning process tends to dry and dull the vinyl. Dressing these surfaces with a protectant will bring back the natural moisture and shine.

Cleaning

1.   Apply the cleaner to the surface
   
2.   Agitate the surface to loosen dirt and debris
   
3.   Wipe away the cleaner and dirt with a clean towel

     Here at the shop, we use a multi-purpose cleaner. When properly diluted, it makes an excellent vinyl cleaner. To apply the cleaner, use a pistol grip sprayer and spray directly on the surface or onto your applicator.

     To agitate the surface, you can use a towel, or a brush. We like to use a very fine scrub pad. This seems to get right down into the grain and will safely clean even very dirty surfaces.

     Of course, the last step is to thoroughly wipe down the surface with a clean towel. On very dirty surfaces, you might have to repeat the process.

Protecting

     OK, now that we've cleaned the vinyl, it has to be protected. There are many vinyl dressing products available. Just make sure you use a water based dressing. Just apply the dressing with a terry covered applicator, then use a clean dry lint free towel to take off the excess. This will leave the surface with a natural looking, dry, non-greasy finish.

     When protecting your vinyl seats, use a leather conditioner. Most vinyl protectants tend to leave vinyl seats slippery. The leather conditioner will protect the seats without leaving them slippery.

     A word of caution: never use vinyl protectant on the foot pedals, gear shifter, or steering wheel.

Vinyl, Rubber, and Tire Protectant

Used to protect plastic, all interior vinyl, and will give tires that "like new" look. Just rub it on with a V.R.T sponge then lightly buff off with a clean towel. Leaves a clean, non-greasy finish that will look great and protect at the same time.

Sponge Applicator

Used to apply the vinyl and rubber protectant. This washable sponge will apply a thin even coat. Simply rub it on with the sponge and lightly buff with a clean towel.

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