Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer
by
Gtechniq
£22.50
- Up to 24 months
- Restores trim colour
- UV protection
We Say
Bring tired, faded exterior plastics back to life without making them look shiny or greasy. Gtechniq C4 restores that factory-fresh appearance and protects it for up to two years.
Faded plastic trim can really let down an otherwise beautifully detailed car. Bumpers, mirror surrounds and textured exterior plastics gradually lose their rich colour, turning that familiar washed-out grey. You can hide it temporarily with a conventional dressing, but the results don't always last. Gtechniq C4 takes a different approach, restoring the appearance of the plastic while leaving behind a much more durable protective coating.
What makes C4 different is the way it bonds to the surface. Rather than simply leaving a layer of dressing sitting on top, it forms a chemical bond with the plastic. Gtechniq describes the resulting film as approximately 30 nanometres thick and optically clear, so it enhances the original colour without covering the trim in an artificial gloss. The result is a natural, factory-style finish that looks particularly good on black textured plastics.
Durability is the big attraction. Gtechniq claims up to two years of protection, with UV resistance helping prevent further fading. It's particularly useful on a car with lots of exposed black plastic, where repeatedly applying a dressing after every few washes can become tedious. C4 is also suitable for newer trim, helping preserve its appearance before fading becomes a problem. Just bear in mind that severely weathered or permanently damaged plastic won't necessarily return to perfect condition.
Preparation makes all the difference. We'd thoroughly clean the trim with Gtechniq W5 Citrus All Purpose Cleaner, rinse and allow it to dry completely before applying C4. Work a few drops into the plastic using the supplied applicator, then immediately remove any residue with a clean Gtechniq MF1 microfibre cloth. It needs 12 hours without exposure to water while it cures. Get those stages right and C4 is a brilliant solution for restoring and protecting exterior plastic trim.
Key Features
Durability
UP TO 2 YEARS
(Manufacturer-claimed protection)
Protection
UV RESISTANT
(Helps prevent further fading)
Shine Level
4/10
(Natural, factory-style finish)
Description
Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer is a long-lasting exterior plastic trim coating designed to restore the appearance of faded, weathered plastics and provide durable protection against further deterioration.
Unlike conventional silicone-based trim dressings, C4 chemically bonds to the plastic surface, creating an exceptionally thin, optically clear coating that enhances the original colour without adding unwanted gloss. Its UV-resistant formulation helps protect the trim against fading, with Gtechniq claiming durability of up to 24 months.
Why you'll love it:
✓ Restores the appearance of faded exterior plastic trim
✓ Enhances colour depth without an artificial glossy finish
✓ Chemically bonds to compatible plastic surfaces
✓ Exceptionally thin, optically clear protective coating
✓ Approximately 30-nanometre film thickness
✓ UV-resistant protection helps prevent further fading
✓ Manufacturer-claimed durability of up to 2 years
✓ Suitable for new and weathered exterior plastics
✓ Ideal for bumpers, mirror surrounds and exterior trim
✓ Natural satin appearance
✓ One application is sufficient when applied correctly
✓ Available in 15ml and 30ml sizes
C4 is designed for unpainted exterior plastic trim. It is particularly effective on black textured plastics that have started to lose their original colour, although heavily weathered or permanently damaged surfaces may not be completely restored.
For the best results, clean the trim thoroughly with Gtechniq W5 Citrus All Purpose Cleaner to remove old dressings and ingrained contamination. After rinsing and drying, apply C4 using the supplied applicator and immediately remove excess residue with a Gtechniq MF1 ZeroR Microfibre Buff Cloth.
C4 is intended for plastic trim rather than rubber seals, glass or painted surfaces. Apply one even coat and allow the coating to cure for 12 hours before exposing it to rain or washing.
Specification
| Adds Protection | Yes, UV-resistant trim protection |
|---|---|
| Application Method | By hand with lint-free applicator |
| Coating Thickness | Approximately 30 nanometres |
| Curing Time | 12 hours without exposure to water |
| Durability | Up to 24 months (manufacturer claim) |
| Finish | Natural, low-gloss satin |
| Layerable | No, one coat is sufficient |
| Minimum Application Temperature | Above 5°C |
| Protection Type | Chemically bonding exterior plastic coating |
| Shine Level |
|
| Size | 15ml and 30ml |
| Suitable Surfaces | Compatible unpainted exterior plastics |
How To Use
1) Clean the trim:
Thoroughly clean the plastic with Gtechniq W5 Citrus All Purpose Cleaner, using a suitable brush to remove ingrained dirt and old dressing residues. Rinse and allow the surface to dry completely.
2) Check the conditions:
Work in a well-ventilated area above 5°C, away from direct sunlight. Ensure all surfaces are cool and completely dry before proceeding.
3) Prepare the applicator:
Put on the supplied protective gloves and add several drops of C4 to the included AP1 lint-free applicator.
4) Apply evenly:
Spread a thin, even layer across each piece of exterior plastic trim. Pay particular attention to textured areas and recessed patterns to ensure consistent coverage.
5) Remove residue immediately:
Use a clean Gtechniq MF1 microfibre cloth to gently remove excess coating straight after application. Check grooves, edges and textured areas carefully, as dried residue can be difficult to remove.
6) Allow to cure:
Keep the treated trim protected from water and the elements for at least 12 hours. A single correctly applied coat is sufficient.
Important Notes:
✓ Ensure all trim is thoroughly cleaned and completely dry
✓ Remove existing silicone dressings before application
✓ Apply above 5°C and away from direct sunlight
✓ Work in a well-ventilated area
✓ Wear the protective gloves provided
✓ Use the supplied AP1 lint-free applicator
✓ Remove excess coating immediately
✓ Avoid direct application to rubber seals and glass
✓ Avoid contact with painted surfaces
✓ One application is sufficient; layering is unnecessary
✓ Keep dry for 12 hours after application
✓ Use within 3 months of opening
✓ Unopened shelf life is 12 months according to Gtechniq
✓ Store in a cool, dry place
Safety Data
Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer is a solvent-containing protective coating. The manufacturer-issued Safety Data Sheet, version 2.0 dated 6 July 2023, identifies the following hazards:
Hazard statements:
H225: Highly flammable liquid and vapour.
H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
Important safety information:
✓ Keep away from heat, sparks and naked flames
✓ Do not smoke during application
✓ Work in a well-ventilated environment
✓ Avoid breathing vapours
✓ Wear suitable protective gloves and eye protection
✓ Avoid unnecessary skin and eye contact
✓ Keep the container tightly closed when not in use
✓ Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight
✓ Keep securely out of reach of children
✓ Avoid release into drains and waterways
✓ Dispose of contents and containers according to local hazardous-waste requirements
✓ Follow the current product label and Safety Data Sheet
Safety Data Sheet:
The following Safety Data Sheet is hosted by Gtechniq and identifies C4 Permanent Trim Restorer. It is version 2.0, issued 6 July 2023. Always follow the latest documentation supplied with the product.
Download Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer Safety Data Sheet (PDF)