Gtechniq C4 Permanent Trim Restorer — long-term plastic trim restoration
Gtechniq C4 utilises a covalent or chemical bond to actually become an extension of the plastic molecule it's protecting. Not to be confused with much weaker electrostatic bonds used by, amongst others, ptfe based polymers Gtechniq C4 actually swaps part of its molecular structure with the surface molecules of your car's trim.
What this means is that you now have a protective coating of unparalleled durability. Unlike many trim products on the market Gtechniq C4 is an exceptionally thin (circa 30nm) optically clear film which means that it does not add an unattractive gloss film to the surface instead it restores all but the most faded trim to an as new condition.
You can expect approximately 2 years from a single application.
Chemical bonding technology — far more durable than dressings
Restores faded plastic to a natural satin appearance
UV protection reduces future fading
Non-greasy finish with no sling or runoff
Long-term durability measured in years, not weeks
How C4 differs from traditional trim dressings
Most trim products rely on oils or silicones that temporarily darken plastics but wash away quickly. C4 instead uses a reactive silane-based formula that bonds directly to the polymer surface. This means the restored finish does not rely on surface oils and will not streak in rain.
For best preparation prior to application, ensure the trim is thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated. A dedicated cleaner such as pre-wash products and a solvent-based panel wipe may be required to remove residues before coating.
Application Process
Thoroughly clean and dry the trim.
Remove any previous dressings or oils.
Apply a small amount of Gtechniq C4 using the supplied applicator.
Spread evenly and allow to cure.
Buff lightly with a clean microfibre cloth if necessary.
Professional Guidance
Apply to cool surfaces out of direct sunlight.
Only use on unpainted exterior plastic trim.
Do not apply to rubber tyres or textured coatings not intended for bonding coatings.
C4 is ideal for restoring bumpers, mirror housings, scuttle panels and textured plastic trims where permanent correction is required.
Available in 15ml & 30ml bottles
Gtechniq C4 Safety Data Sheet
Our Take
“What we use when we want faded trim to stay sorted, not just look better for a week.”
C4 is one of those trim products we don’t treat lightly. It isn’t a quick dressing or a short-term darkener — it’s a proper restorative coating. When we’re dealing with faded, weathered exterior plastics and we want a long-term fix rather than a temporary cosmetic boost, this is the route we take.
Technically, C4 forms a chemical bond with the plastic substrate rather than sitting on top of it. That’s the key difference. Instead of leaving an oily layer that washes away, this ceramic coating penetrates and restores colour at the surface level, which is why the results last significantly longer than traditional trim dressings.
In terms of finish, we’ve found it delivers a natural, factory-style darkening rather than a glossy or artificial look. It enhances the richness of the trim without making it look wet or shiny, which is exactly what we prefer on modern vehicles.
Preparation is everything with C4 — we always make sure the surface is properly cleaned and free from old dressings before applying. Do that, apply sparingly, and the durability is genuinely impressive. For us, it’s one of the most reliable long-term trim solutions on the market if we want restoration and protection in one step.
About CleanYourCar.co.uk:
Established in 2005, Cleanyourcar.co.uk is the UK's leading online Car Care & Car Cleaning Megastore. We import car detailing products from around the world to give you the ultimate choice for when you come to clean your car.
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