How to Deal with Spots on Car Chrome Trim?
2 Answers
Prepare a soft and clean cloth, pour hydrochloric acid onto the cloth, and wipe the area with glass film adhesive. Repeat the wiping process several times to completely remove the spots. Toothpaste can only be used for minor rust stains; it is not very effective for deeper rust. Hydrochloric acid is relatively corrosive, so be careful not to let it drip onto the car paint during use, as it may cause varying degrees of damage.
The chrome trim on my car also had spots before, which I noticed after a rainy day—it looked like a layer of rust spots stuck to it. I applied toothpaste at home, squeezed it onto a soft cloth, and gently rubbed for a few minutes, which reduced the spots significantly. For stubborn spots, I used a mixture of baking soda and water, soaked it, and scrubbed, which mostly restored the shine. The spots are mainly due to oxidation or accumulated stains. If any residue remains, lightly sand and polish with fine sandpaper. Usually, try to park away from roadside pollution sources, such as avoiding industrial areas, to reduce acid rain or salt corrosion. I also bought a chrome protection spray that forms a protective film to prevent stains—just rinse with soapy water when washing the car. These DIY methods are simple and cost-effective; you can do them yourself. However, if the corrosion is too severe, you’ll need to replace the trim, as it affects the car’s appearance and can be troublesome.