ABS plastic is a popular material used in many Jeep accessories because it’s durable, lightweight, and resistant to impact. However, both interior and exterior ABS parts require some care to maintain their look and longevity, especially when exposed to sunlight and daily wear. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps to keep your ABS plastic parts in top shape, both inside and outside your vehicle.

Interior ABS Plastic Care

Your Jeep’s interior ABS parts, like dashboard trim, center console covers, and door handle inserts, are more protected from the elements but still require attention. Here’s how to maintain them:

1. Regular Cleaning

   • What to use: A soft microfiber cloth and mild soap or a plastic-friendly cleaner.
   • How to clean: Wipe down your interior ABS plastic parts weekly to remove dust and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths, as they can scratch the surface.

2. Protect from UV Damage

   • Even though interior parts are less exposed to direct sunlight, they can still fade over time. Applying a UV protectant spray like 303 Aerospace Protectant or Meguiar's Natural Shine Protectant will help protect the plastic from fading and cracking. Simply spray the product onto a cloth and wipe it over the surface for long-lasting protection.

3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

   • Pro tip: Use a windshield sunshade when parked under direct sunlight for long periods. This helps reduce the interior temperature and protects ABS parts from heat damage.

Exterior ABS Plastic Care

ABS plastic accessories like fender flares, grille inserts, and gas caps are exposed to harsher conditions, including UV rays, rain, dirt, and debris. Maintaining these parts requires a bit more effort to keep them looking fresh.

1. Frequent Cleaning

   • What to use: A plastic-specific cleaner such as Chemical Guys All-Clean or Mothers Plastic Cleaner.
   • How to clean: Rinse off dirt with water, then apply the cleaner using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid harsh scrubbing tools that could scratch the surface. Finish by wiping down the parts with a microfiber towel.

2. Restoring Faded ABS Plastic

   • Over time, exposure to the sun can oxidize ABS plastic, leading to fading or a dull finish. To restore the original look:
     • Use a plastic restorer like Griot’s Garage Vinyl & Rubber Dressing or Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer. Apply a small amount to the faded area and buff it in using a microfiber cloth. This will help rejuvenate the color and protect it from further damage.

3. Protect from UV and Weather

   • To prevent future fading, use a UV protectant after cleaning your exterior ABS plastic parts. A product like 303 Protectant Spray or Armor All Original Protectant will create a barrier against the sun’s harmful rays and help maintain the color and shine of the plastic.
   • Pro tip: If possible, park in shaded areas or use a vehicle cover when your Jeep is not in use for extended periods. This reduces prolonged sun exposure.

4. Special Care for Colored ABS Plastic

   • If you have brightly colored ABS parts like lime green or red, they’re more prone to oxidation. Clean them more frequently and apply a protectant after each wash to maintain their vibrant color.

Recommended Products

For Interior ABS Parts:

1. 303 Aerospace Protectant
2. Meguiar's Natural Shine Protectant
3. Windshield sunshade for UV protection 

For Exterior ABS Parts:

1. Chemical Guys All-Clean
2. Griot’s Garage Vinyl & Rubber Dressing
3. 303 Protectant Spray
4. Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer

By following these simple steps, you can keep your Jeep’s ABS plastic parts looking fresh and new, both inside and out. Regular cleaning, UV protection, and using the right products will help prevent fading, cracking, and other damage caused by the elements. Take care of your ABS accessories, and they’ll continue to make your Jeep stand out for years to come!