You love the feeling of the wind rushing through your hair with the top down. You’re driving the babe magnet – for men and women! But there is one unique challenge with convertibles … beyond a sunburned bald spot or a hairdo that looks like a squirrel’s nest. Some convertibles come with a plastic back window. If you own one of these, you may notice it is getting harder to see through as time goes by. They start looking hazy and can get bad enough that it’s almost impossible to see through them.
In this post I am going to cover how to clean up and restore a plastic window. I have found that some regular maintenance to the window makes all the difference. Hey, you need to be able to see!
Prepping the Plastic Window
It is vital to begin the plastic window maintenance or restoration by cleaning it. This is easily done by wetting down a clean terry cloth towel and wiping the window off. You don’t need any soap or other cleaners for this step. Be sure to clean it inside and out since we will be working on both sides. You have to start by cleaning it or you run the risk of scuffing it up with any surface dirt that may be on it.
Convertible Top Window Cleaner and Polish
Today there are quite a few products available to maintain and restore a plastic window. I have had outstanding and consistent luck using two products from Maguiars. You need to get Mequiars M17 clear plastic cleaner. Next, buy some Meguiars M10 plastic polish. These can be found at most larger auto parts stores or automotive paint and supply stores.
The Process of Restoring the Plastic Window
To start off the process you need to dampen a clean towel – be sure to wring out as much moisture as possible. Next, apply a few tablespoons of the M17 cleaner to the towel. Rub the cleaner onto the plastic window in a small circular motion – overlapping each hand stroke. I have found that working over a 5-inch by 5-inch area works best. Continue this process over the entire plastic window. Allow the product to dry to a haze, then wipe clean with a clean, dry towel. This takes a little elbow grease, but you will swiftly see your results. If the window still looks a little dull, then do this step one or two more times. Be patient!
Once you have gotten the window looking clear, it is time to switch to the M10 clear plastic polish. This is an even finer grade of polish, and it contains nourishing oils that help it spread easily over the window. Apply this polish the same way you did with the cleaner. After you wipe down the window check to see if you need to apply a second coat. Keep in mind that you will also need to repeat this process on the inside of the plastic window. This second step really makes the plastic clear.
Final Tips for Clear Plastic Windows From an Auto Detailer Pro
There is a tip I want to share with you from my days at the auto detail shop. Once you have cleaned and polished both sides of the window you can add a layer of protection. This is done using some liquid wax or polish. I prefer the Nu Finish brand. It goes on easy and wipes clean fast.
Now you know my tricks for convertible top plastic window polishing. We have gone over the process in two steps – a cleaner and a follow-up polish works best. We have learned how to apply the product and how to maintain the look with some liquid wax as a final step. Having a clean and clear plastic window isn’t just for aesthetics – it is also a safety issue. You need to be able to see out so you can back up!