How to Keep Jeep Wrangler Fenders Black (100% FADE RESTORED)

The best way to restore your Jeep Wrangler fenders black again is by washing them with a PH-neutral water-based fragrance-free product. Thereafter apply a UV protective product that is 100% free of grease-producing silicone oils and petroleum distillates.

There are so many plastic restoration products on the market these days, all making wonderful claims to restore your fenders to black. Perhaps they do restore the black back in the plastic but it’s not always lasting.

With all the marketing hype, It’s hard to determine which product works and which are just “snake oil” that overpromises and under-deliver.

Before we get into the recommended products, let’s first dispel some of the DIY home remedies you’ve seen online.

Fender Restoration Myths

There are so many YouTube videos of Jeep owners coming out, claiming to have found the ultimate, inexpensive method to restore the black plastic fenders to black, and most importantly, keep them black.

So let’s look at some of the DIY Fender restoration methods:

• Wire brush and liquid soap
• All-purpose green spray and wire brush
• Pink eraser
• Blow-dryer or Heat gun and wire brush
• Peanut butter

Now, I’m not saying these methods don’t work, but they aren’t sustainable long-term. If you going to use any harsh, scented, liquid soaps on your plastic fenders, it slowly pulls the oils out, making them dull and grey over time.

• Hairdryers and heat guns do work, however, all it does is draw the oils out of the plastic, giving the appearance of a nice black, restored Fender
• The heat process also makes the bumpers more brittle over time and more susceptible to cracking.  
• Extended exposure to heat reduces the flexibility of the fender.

Let’s look at some UV Protective sprays and determine what the difference is between a good and a great product.

Why Do Black Fenders Fade

If we understand the cause of Fender’s fading, it will help us to understand which products will work better, and which are simply a rip-off.

The composition of the plastic fenders is made up of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) materials, which are considered oily plastic materials. Just like natural skin/hide, plastic, paint, leather, and almost everything that is exposed to the natural elements, all need a level of protection from the harshness of the sun, rain, and wind.

UV Plastic Protecting Sprays

So the number one factor to look out for when purchasing a product is does it has UV- Ray protection. Like a sun-blocker spray, you apply it to your skin when exposed to the sun at the beach.

• You want something that locks in the plastic moisture for longer and protects the plastic from harmful UV rays to drastically slow down the fading process.
• If you own a new model Wrangler with black plastic fenders, it’s best to apply a UV protective solution before the fenders begin to fade.
• Preventative maintenance will extend the showroom condition of your Jeep for longer.

Let’s look at some preventative maintenance best practices.

How to Keep Jeep Wrangler Fenders Black

With any black plastic trim on your Jeep or any other 4-wheel drive, you want to ensure the fenders are kept clean from mud, grime, and acidic substances as much as possible.

All of these substances have natural acids that quickly draw out the moisture from the plastics. Don’t leave it on your vehicle for too long, unless you enjoy spending your Saturday afternoons struggling to remove unwanted stains from your Jeeps Fenders.

Cleaning your Jeep Fenders

Always, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines by not using harmful chemicals to wash your Jeep. Only use warm water and mild soap. Most chemicals make the trim shine and look black, however, you’ll notice you’ll become dependent on those expensive chemicals to keep it looking nice as the natural color has been stripped away.

• Once cleaned, try your best to avoid parking in the hot sun for extended periods.
• Rather opt for shady parking, even if it means a few extra paces further to where you need to be.

Let’s look at some recommended products for restoring and maintaining your Jeep’s fenders back to factory black.

What Makes A Good Fender Restoration Product?

• Most importantly, you want a UV-proof product. 
• The product must be suitable for rubber, plastic, vinyl, PVC, and fiberglass surfaces. 
• Also, you want to apply something non-greasy, non-sticky
• You want a product that repels dust, stains, and grime.
• The product must be bio-friendly and non-toxic, since when washed off these run into the sewerage systems and drain off into the environment.
• The product must be 100% free of grease-producing silicone oils and petroleum distillates.

If the product meets all the above requirements, it’s decent.

What about Jeep Wrangler Fender Wipes?

Many of the above products work great, however, they require repeated applications to maintain that nice black new showroom look. What if there was a product that you could apply once, and it would last months?

• Unlike most liquid chemicals that sometimes leave a residue, attract dust, and require monthly treatments.
• The WIPE NEW product is designed to last much longer and even claims to stay black after 100 car washes!!!
• Just make sure the vehicle is clean and grease-free before you begin the wipe-down and let it sit for 24 hours before you can wash your car again.
• Read the instructions carefully!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Whichever route you decide to go, remember to try and stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines by using a mild bio-friendly soap when washing your Jeep before applying any restoration products.

Black fenders are also more practical for off-roading since they hide the scratches and scuffs a lot easier. Painted fenders will chip and are a lot harder to restore when damaged.