Color Keyed Body Side Molding on a Toyota Camry

The best way to protect your car or truck from dents and door dings is by installing a professional grade body side molding. You can also protect other areas of the vehicle in the same way with wheel well molding and door edge guards.

Body side moldings are usually strips of rubber or vinyl that attach horizontally to the side of your vehicle. By installing them down the center of the door this rubber strip usually protects you from another door hitting yours. Usually the moulding will stick out farther than the body of the vehicle itself, so if someone swings their door into the side of your car it will hit the body side molding first. They usually come in black, chrome and there are some colors available as well.

Body side molding installs easily. Almost all car molding attaches with 3M automotive grade attachment tape, which is the same way that the car manufacturers use to attach factory body side molding. If installed properly the molding should never come loose. There are other areas of your car that should also be protected. These areas are the wheel well area and the door edge areas.

Wheel well molding attaches in the same manner with a 3M tape. These mouldings will trim the area of the wheel well with a thin vinyl bead that will protect this exposed area. You can also use this molding to cover up an existing dent in this area. Once applied over the dent or scratch you will never know the damage was there. This trick is used at the car dealers all of the time. Sometimes it used to just dress up the vehicle with a chrome or black trim.

Door edge guards protect just that – the edge of your car door. They also protect whatever you are hitting with your door. Because of the soft vinyl edge, if you were to open your car door into another car the likelihood of you damaging either car is minimal. The door edge guards will act as a shock absorber and help prevent any damage that would otherwise happened.

For most of us, buying a new car or truck is one of the largest investments that we will ever make in our lives. We take pride in what we drive. It doesn’t matter if we drive a Hyundai or a Porsche (okay maybe it does, but follow me here for a second). We like to drive in clean, shiny, dent free cars. Spending a few dollars on molding protection now will no doubt save you potentially hundreds of dollars in the future repairing and repainting your new car or truck.

TIP SHACK

How to refinish plastic tail light lenses. With minimal effort, they can look brand-new.

We had recently purchased a late model used car that had seen too many trips through a brush style car wash. A no-no for any real car enthusiast. But, for the populous, those time-saving, discount gas station car wash machines are a might bit tempting.

The whole car had taken on a patina from the swilling automated car wash brushes. We knew that we would be able to restore the paint work in short order with System One products sold by the Eastwood Company (www.eastwoodco.com) However, we wanted to concentrate at this time on the plastic taillight, headlight and decorative trim. The objective was to rejuvenate these areas to a “like-new” finish. We selected Autosol Paste for this project [we recommend the 100gm tube instead of the 1000gm can, as this stuff goes a long way].

We first set about to carefully wash the entire vehicle, eliminating dirt, grit and contamination. Turning our attention to the taillights, we applied AutoSol by hand. We applied a small amount to a clean dampened cloth, and, with only a small amount of pressure and elbow grease, we could see out taillight lenses rejuvenating before our eyes. A quick final polish with a clean rag had all but eliminated the car wash brush marks.

If you are interested in a solution that takes less sweat, try this. Apply AutoSol to the taillight lenses with a damp rag. Use a loose 40-ply 4″ buff wheel attached to a wheel arbor on your electric drill [you can get both items for less than $10]. Buff the surface at 90° angles. Be sure to occasionally check for heat build-up. Though you’ll most likely find very little, better to be aware of the potential for heat build-up than to not pay attention to the possibility at all. Within a few minutes your taillight lenses will be transformed to like-new condition.

After the taillights, we turned our attention to the plastic headlamp lenses that suffered from the same problem as the taillight lenses. The AutoSol cut through the dullness in short order. Deeper stone chips could not be removed, but, overall, our headlights were as clear as ever.

Next, we applied the same procedures to detail the car’s ornamental plastic grille lens. The results were equally wonderful!

If you have some AutoSol paste leftover, don’t worry – it has many excellent applications on metals, too. Give it a try!

To purchase Autosol, contact the Eastwood Company directly.

WEB NEWS

You don’t have to drive a green car to take advantage of this amazing deal. Actually, you don’t have to drive a car at all – a truck will work, too. I’m talking about our sweet new deals on Lambo Door Hinges. You know you’ve seen these and you know they’re hot. AUTOMEGA® has both Vertical Doors, Inc. Brand and AutoLoc™ Brand Lambo Door Conversion Kits. Vertical Door, Inc. Brand systems are made as a direct Bolt-on installation with pre-drilled hinges to fit specific vehicles. AutoLoc Brand systems are totally universal with hinges that are not pre-drilled and are not direct bolt-on installations. So no matter what you drive we’ve got an option to work for you. And with our recently reduced prices, new product line additions, AND free shipping, it’s no wonder these are flying off the shelves.

Have you started gearing up for spring yet? It’s right around the corner, you know, and we’ve got the products you need to get you out and about after a long, cold winter. Check out our racks to find the right bike rack for your vehicle – and hey, we’ve even got towing racks. So you can pull your boat out of dry dock and bring along your bikes, no hassle.

TIP SHACK

This month we got the question:

I’m interested in purchasing replacement molding, however I’ve seen some after market chrome side molding turn brown. What causes this, and what can be done to prevent it?

Thanks for your question. Body Side Molding can turn yellow for a couple of different reasons:

1. Product failure.—If the Molding product is not a high quality OEM approved product (like those that AUTOMEGA® carries), the clear protective film covering the chrome mylar can break down, causing a yellowing effect.
2. Product care.—All products that are exposed to the elements such as sun, rain, ice, and road dirt/salts need to be kept clean. If not, they can burn or deteriorate just from the weather itself.

Luckily, there are a couple things you can do to prevent this problem. Just like the paint on your car, if you never wash your car you probably do not expect to keep your car looking shiny and new. However if you wash your car every week or two it will definitely look better. Then, if you wax it a few times a year it will look even better still. This is because you are protecting the paint from all of the harsh elements outside. Molding, pinstriping, graphics and paint all fall within this same category. If you keep them clean and keep a light coat of wax on them you not only will make them all look better but you will extend the life of the products tremendously.

WEB NEWS

You’ve been asking for them and now they’re here—Direct Bolt-On Lambo Door Hinges. These come pre-drilled from the manufacturer to fit your specific vehicle. This makes getting this hot look easier than ever before. Is your vehicle not one of the almost thirty different makes and hundred models available pre-drilled? No, problem! AutoLoc’s Universal Lambo Door System fits all vehicles by allowing you to drill your own holes as needed. We even have new Shaved Door Handle Kits so you get that clean smooth look to go along with your lamborghini doors.

We know you’ve had your eye on them, and right now we’ve got all Wings West Body Kits at 20% off list price. Wings West products are made with Urethane, which is lighter than other commonly used materials, and designed to fit your vehicle perfectly. That means less hassle and cost in installation, a better look, and less time in the shop. Just select your make and model and we’ll hook you up with all the info you need to personalize your car or truck with one of these hot kits.

Looking to outfit your car with an AEROGEAR Body Kit? Now’s the time and AUTOMEGA® is definitely the place. We’ve got our entire selection of AEROGEAR down to 10% off list price. You’re not going to find them any lower, so head over to and see for yourself. And if that’s not quite what you had in mind, what about taking a peek at our Xenon Body Kits. They’re reduced right now to below Jobber pricing, so why resist?

Finally, right now we’re offering free shipping on several of our products: Wood Dash Kits, Nerf Bars (those shipped via UPS or FedEx only) and our entire line of graphics. Looking for pinstriping? A rear window flag graphic? Or maybe you’d like to create a whole new look with one of our graphic packages. Now’s the time to save on any or all of these products. No minimum order required, but this offer is only available for a limited time, so visit www.customautotrim.com to take advantage of this awesome deal.

Our little AUTOMEGA® elves have been super busy cooking up some great deals and working their magic all over our website. Take a look at our Web News section to figure out what you’d like to add to your wish list.

TIP SHACK

This month, Steve asked:

How can I keep my car’s finish looking new? Are there any specific products you recommend?

Great question, Steve! The real key to an outstanding finish is to keep it away from the nasty elements, and wash and detail it often. A good exterior detail is done in the following steps:

1. Wash with a good car wash soap. Do not use dish detergent, this will strip the wax. Any automotive brand will do.
2. Clean the finish, removing any oxidation and contaminants, such as tar or fallout specs. These can be removed with detailer’s clay. Again, it doesn’t matter what brand you buy. Most come with an applicator spray which is a soapy or waxy solution to lubricate the clay as you rub it on the finish. If no spray is supplied, use the clay with your car wash soap as you are washing your car.
3. Polish the finish. Polishing is the step that brings out a deep color and shine and eliminates small scratches and swirl marks in your finish. Buy a straight polish without any cleaner in it, such as Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze. If you have a dark finish, look for polishes that say “swirl remover”, “haze remover” or “film remover” recommended for dark cars. I would suggest using a straight polish weekly, monthly, or whenever you feel like touching up your finish.
4. Wax the finish. Waxing is what gives your finish lasting protection. Some straight waxes I would recommend are Meguairs, Zymol, Production Products, P&S or Pro Products. Straight waxes can be difficult to use, but the trick is to apply in thin, straight, overlapping strokes. Applying a thicker layer does not add protection, it just wastes the wax and makes it more difficult to wipe off. Just remember, “Thin to Win.” I would suggest waxing only as frequently as monthly, or even quarterly.

Finally, for a quick way to keep dust and fingerprints off your car between cleanings, try a good car duster. This will actually remove the smudges and dust instead of just pushing it around or scratching the paint. We’ve got them available for only $19.95.

WEB NEWS

This month we want to introduce you to one of the most in demand products out there—Hood Scoops. Trust me, Santa just picked one up for his sleigh and he loves it! They’re made from durable, solid core polyurethane. And they couldn’t be easier to install! You can get them primed to paint yourself, or already painted to match your factory color code. They’re available for a number of makes, including Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and more. See if we’ve got your make/model.

Have you still not taken a look at our AEROGEAR® body kit line? For a short time only, we’ve got select AEROGEAR® hoods and fenders marked down to make room for upcoming models. Find what you need for your car or truck.

While we can’t come out and string your holiday lights for you, we can deck you out in the latest in Altezza tail lights. With styles in clear, smoke, carbon fiber and black, we’re sure to have the ones you’ve had your eye on.

We’re almost ready to slide into 2006, but you’ll look like you’re rolling up on 2010 with our Lambo Door Hinge Kits. Manual or Automatic, full kit or accessories, we’ve got them all.

WRAPPING IT UP

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Just call our toll free support line at 1-800-232-6922. We’re standing by to help!

Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggestions. Thanks for your time!

Take care, and enjoy your holidays

So now that you’ve gotten the kids back to school, and your normal, comfortable routine is starting to resume, isn’t it about time to sit back and think about what’s ahead? For instance, did you know that according to the most recent census data available, 35% of Americans spend an hour or more in their commute to and from work each day. That’s 90+ hours between now and the end of the year alone. Now, if you enjoy your car and are happy with it, that’s not so terrible, right? But man, if you’re not happy with your car that’s an awful lot of time to be stuck in it. Not to mention the fact that, like it or not, you’re depending on your car to get you there safely and in style. This, as you may have guessed, is where we come in. Take a look at our Blog section to find just the right something to make those days in traffic a tiny bit brighter. And don’t forget to look below for this month’s coupon, because while we can’t alleviate your commute, we can make getting there a little more fun.

TIP SHACK

This month, we got the question:

I have pinstriping on my car and am afraid I will mess it up when I wax the car. Any suggestions on how to do this safely?

Good question. Like the paint on your car, your pinstriping and graphics need protection from the sun and other elements too. But you need to be a bit careful. The trouble occurs when you apply too much wax around the edges of the graphic or pinstripe. if you don’t properly remove all of the wax from the vehicle, the wax that still remains around the edges of your stripe will dry chalky white and will make your stripe or graphic appear old and worn. Removing this wax buildup is entirely possible, but can be time consuming. So here’s what you do when waxing: Using a very damp sponge or soft cloth, pour on a small amount of wax. Make sure you work the wax in to whatever you are using. Then apply your wax over your stripe or graphic, trying to go in the same direction as the stripe does. This way you don’t build up too much wax in the edges. If your stripe goes from left to right, apply your wax from left to right. The key here is A Very Light Coat!! A thin coat will give you great protection. To remove the wax, take a very soft cloth and wipe off in the same direction as you applied it in. pay extra attention to the edges of your stripe, and do your best to remove any wax that you see. If later you do experience wax buildup or a chalky appearance at the edges, take a toothbrush (not yours, get someone else’s) and GENTLY agitate the chalky wax and then rub it off with a soft cloth. This may take you some time, but the toothbrush will do it. So to make it easy on yourself in the future, only use very thin coats of wax around your striping and graphics.

WEB NEWS

If you’ve peeked ahead to the contest below, you already know about the hot new products we’ve got to offer you this month on our website—Autoloc Lambo Door Hinge Kits. These are guaranteed to make your car a conversation piece, and will work with any make and model. And as complicated as they may look, they really are simple to install and come with easy to follow instructions so you’ll be up and running in no time.

While you’re there, take a look at our newly available Autoloc Keyless Entry Systems. From a basic top quality six function remote, to an extraordinary eighteen function remote that allows you to control your stereo, sunroof, windows and more. This baby does everything but drive the car for you. And we’ve got five different models available, so undoubtedly one of them will be just what you’ve been looking for.

The other big news we have to share with you is that AUTOMEGA® is now an Authorized Dealer for AEROGEAR® Products. From bumper to bumper and fender to wing, we’ve got you covered and this month they’re all deeply discounted, as well.

Now that you’ve read the tip of the month and know what a breeze it is to take care of, maybe it’s time you update your car’s look with some easy to apply pinstriping. We’ve got the width you want, all the way up to a full two inches thick, and it’s all sold in 150 foot rolls, so you’re sure to have enough for the look you want and then some. Pick yours out from our twelve available colors.

WRAPPING IT UP

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Just call our toll free support line at 1-800-232-6922. We’re standing by to help!

Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggestions. Thanks for your time!

Take care, and happy driving

Anyway, I hope that you and your cars have all made it through this very long winter none the worse for wear. Isn’t that first good washing and waxing you give your car in the spring a great feeling. Getting off all the salt and dirt and generic road sludge that’s been piling on week after week and coming out with a bright, shiny car that looks brand new all over again. And speaking of which, be sure to check out our tips section below for some helpful hints hints on getting that wax done just right.

This issue we’ve got all the latest on our hot new products and the low down on some really cool happenings on the website down below in the Blog section, and even a money saving coupon. So sit back, relax for a few minutes, and don’t even think about the fact that you’re losing an hour of sleep with the whole “Spring Ahead” thing, and prepare to be transported, if briefly, into a world where your car is all that matters.

TIP SHACK

This month, we got two questions that are so closely related, we decided to address both of them. Question One:

I have pinstriping on my car and am afraid I will mess it up when I wax the car. Any suggestions on how to do this safely?

Actually it is good to keep some wax on your pinstriping and graphic kits. Just like your paint, they also need to be protected from the outside elements like the sun, salts, and dirt. What you want to do is apply a very thin coat of wax to the pinstripe or graphic. You can do this by applying a small amount of wax with a damp sponge to the area. You want it to go on thin so you can remove it easily. This is one case where thicker is not better! What you DON’T want to do is to apply the wax too heavily around the striping. If you do then you will get buildup around the stripe that will turn white or chalky. When that happens the stripe looks old and weathered. Thin for the win, as they say.

Which leads us perfectly into Question Two:

I applied too much wax to my pinstriping and it looks white and chalky around the edges. How do I get rid of that?

Most of the time you can just carefully wipe around the edges with a soft cloth, but in cases of heavy wax buildup you can use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Agitate with care, making sure not to scratch the paint surface. A tooth pick cut off at an angle is also extremely effective. The sharp point can be used to clean edges, and remove the stubborn wax build up.

WEB NEWS

Spring is the perfect time to spruce up your car with some brand new auto graphics, and we have quite a selection to choose from! Whether you’re in the market for some flames for your doors, or maybe something to decorate your rear window, we’ve got it all, and it’s all organized and easy to find. Hot right now are these rear window U.S. flag graphics. Show your support and grab one before they’re all gone!

WRAPPING IT UP

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Just call our toll free support line at 1-800-232-6922. We’re standing by to help!

Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggestions. Thanks for your time!

Happy Daylight Savings

So, did you get everything you asked for for the holidays? If so, lucky you! If not, let’s see what we can do to help you out. Just like all your other favorite stores, CustomAutoTrim.com has a wide variety of product deals this month and you can read more about them below in our Blog section. And while you’re at it, be sure to take advantage of our coupon for even more savings.

Elsewhere in this issue, we’ve got chances for you to learn a few things, win prizes, and even make some extra cash. So sit back, get comfy, and settle in to spend a few moments with us on your favorite subject and mine—cars.

TIP SHACK

This month, we got the question:

Hey Mike, my wheel wells and door edges are all dented and chipped from parking lot damage and I was wondering, is it too late for me to put door edge guards and wheel well molding on my car? Would it help at all?

It’s not too late at all! In fact it’s a great time to put wheel well molding and door edge guards on. We do this sort of trick all of the time when we are working on used car lots. We are able to cover up most of these small dents and chips with the new body side moldings, which accomplishes 2 things—you will hide those ugly chips and small dents from sight (yay!) and at the same time protect yourself from any additional parking lot damage in the future. And best of all, it’s MUCH cheaper than visiting your local body shop.

There are many easy to install accessories that can customize your car or truck without any major labor, sometimes in as little as just a few minutes. You can check out all of these products at http://CustomAutoTrim.com!

WEB NEWS

It may be cold outside, but we’ve got some white hot products for you on our website this month. Like a set of new wheel covers to dress up your vehicle. Whether you’re a Silver kind of guy, or a Chrome lovin’ gal, we’ve got hub caps to fit your fancy. Don’t know what size you need? No problem. Come on by the site and we’ll show you how to figure it out.

Maybe wheels aren’t your thing, but what really melts the ice for you is Nerf Bars. Great—Stainless Steel, Chrome, or Black, we’ve got them all for you. And did you know that these can be installed quickly and easily with absolutely no drilling. That’s right, so easy anyone can do it, and right now they’re priced to move, so why wait?

WRAPPING IT UP

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Just call our toll free support line at 1-800-232-6922. We’re standing by to help!

Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggests. Thanks for your time!