How to clean this?
 

Does anyone know how to clean the dirt around the outsides of the panels on my 2006 4runner?

Bonus question: how can I make the running boards black again?

Did you see my post in your other thread? Easy to get rid of.

I read your reply and replied to it....here's my reply here as well, plus a bit more info.

I'm not sure if you know what her issue is, what I see is dirt getting behind the edges of the clear film on the door/s at the bottom of the clad panels, this clear film was install to help protect the plastic cladding from rock chips, the dirt line you're seeing is not on the paint it's on the back edges of the clear film.

You can possibly clean the dirt from behind the film but it will just be back fairly soon because the edge of the film is lifting up/slowing coming loose allowing dirt to get behind it, some on the forum have removed the film so this doesn't happen any longer but how they got it off would have to be searched for as I don't remember exactly how they got it off, I know it's not as easy as it sounds because it has a self adhesive back on it.

It seems I do remember one guy using a safe solvent that won't damage the paint but will dissolve glue and plastic razor blades, yes you read that correctly, plastic razor blades, check online they are made for using on painted surfaces so it won't scratch the paint.

Yes, I knew what it was, but I thought that you had already removed the ppf and were just dealing with the residue.

No real way to fix it except to remove the PPF, clean as I outlined and replace with new.

Thanks!
 

I'll go look in the other thread for your response. I'm still getting used to this forum. Thank you very much!

Unfortunately, once PPF (Paint Protection Film) starts to peel, there isn't much one can do. Even if you remove the damaged areas, it won't be long before it peels again.

Remove it, clean the area and reapply new film. Auto parts stores (PepBoys, Autozone etc.) sell rolls of cheap, somewhat junky, film in 4 and 6 inch rolls that is fine for this sort of application and you can swap it out every couple of years.

My other post was written in a very basic way, so please don't take it as being talked down to if you know that already.

Aerospace 303 is great for keeping / returning plastic and rubber to their original color. Also protects from UV and helps prevent drying and cracking. I wipe all the black plastic and rubber trim down on my cars once a month or so.

great question im interetsed

that stuff won't damage the rubber trim?

It sure shouldn't, its basically just sunscreen for exterior surfaces. It is really popular for marine use since boats take so much abuse from salt water and direct sun. It makes a world of difference on window trim, grilles, etc.

303 Aerospace Protectant Review and Guide | Ask a Pro Blog

Thanks...i def need to get some of that

Just used this on the black trim panels on the back side of front window and front part of back window, and also on the black plastic on top rear bumper. It made a world of difference. Highly, highly recommend. Thanks for the tip.