Best way to change chrome window trim to black

[C0recollector]

I just put on some new, all black, rims on my 2013 SE Hybrid. I'd like to remove some of the chrome accents on the car. I don't actually need to remove them if there is a good way to convert or cover them. Any recommendations on the best way to do this? I would like to weigh in cost, quality and I don't mind it being a DIY project.

 

I've seen some people on youtube that show how to use plasti-dip. I've also seen others describe a vinyl plastic wrap that you stick on, trim and then heat up to cure it. Both I've read are safely removable without damaging the original surface. Is this true? Are these the best or only options? Anything else I should consider?

 

Thanks

 

 

[acdii]

Those are two options, being removable has its benefits when it comes time to sell or trade, most people would not want to buy a modified car, so it detracts from the selling price, The Rims in all black though, are a good upsell, I would love a set of black rims like were on the Flex for the Fusion, too bad they were 20's.

 

For a more permanent solution and probably the best looking, have it painted with a tinted clear coat, make it black chrome. If done right, it would enhance the car, if done wrong though, could be a not so good thing. It is permanent though, so if you wanted to revert, you would have to replace all those parts.

[GrySql]

The upgraded wheels on the Fusion are PVD coated these days, it can be done in many colors including shiny chrome and black chrome. Any part, whether plastic or metal can have this process done to it.

Here is an explanation of the process:

http://americanpvdcoatings.com/pvd-chrome/

[C0recollector]

Oh, sorry guys, I should have been a little more descriptive. My new rims are perfect as is (They are already all black). What I wanted to change are the chrome trim pieces around the windows. I would probably like to change the chrome text plates black as well if it wasn't too much trouble (and hopefully non permanent). Does that change your recommendations? I interpreted your comments as advise on how to change chrome accents on the wheels themselves.

 

Thanks,

[GrySql]

There are plenty of 'wraps' that can do what you want. Ebay and Amazon sell lots of that stuff, like this.

If you want someone else to do the work you might contact your local window tint shop and ask their advice.

PVD is a permanent solution, for wheels or any other part, so that may not be what you want.

Edited April 18, 2014 by GrySql

[acdii]

I saw a car on Tuesday that was wrapped in "chrome" wrap. It was ugly. If my Flex hadn't been wrecked I had planned to spray the back panel with dark tinted clear. It would have a hint of silver, but be black. I think that is the most outstanding way to do it. Black Chrome is just cool looking.

Edited April 19, 2014 by acdii

[hybridbear]

I just put on some new, all black, rims on my 2013 SE Hybrid.

A little off the topic of the question you're asking here, but what rims? Did you post any pics? What did you do with your stock rims?

[C0recollector]

A little off the topic of the question you're asking here, but what rims? Did you post any pics? What did you do with your stock rims?

I always buy winter tires for my vehicles and had the winter tires put on the original rims. Bought these rims (Drag DR33) at Discount and had them put the original all seasons on those.

 

I have a 2013 FFH SE with black exterior and black interior leather. I'd agree that black chrome would look fantastic but I already got some matte black tape which I'm going to use on on the chrome trim pieces around the windows. I'll post some before and after when I finish.

[Robperri]

I always buy winter tires for my vehicles and had the winter tires put on the original rims. Bought these rims (Drag DR33) at Discount and had them put the original all seasons on those.

 

I have a 2013 FFH SE with black exterior and black interior leather. I'd agree that black chrome would look fantastic but I already got some matte black tape which I'm going to use on on the chrome trim pieces around the windows. I'll post some before and after when I finish.

Can you post a picture of those wheels on your car? I was considering those same wheels. Thanks.

[junior.29.dh]

Your best bet is to use the plasti dip. I've used it on my fusion for my chrome grille.check my pics.

[Wayne MacLeod]

Plasti-dip is probably the easiest way to go.

 

First clean the trim. Tape off around the trim you want to paint. Overlap your tape going one direction. Either clockwise or counter clockwise but not both. (When you go to remove the tape it will all unravel in one piece this way. )

Use blue tape for automotive. Masking tapes have stronger adhesives and can be a pain to clean up.

After taping off, make sure to tape newspaper around the outer side to keep overspray minimal. You don't have to, the plasti-dip rubs off but this just saves work.

Spray the parts in a smooth motion with light coats. It will look bumpy but it will smooth out once it dries. If you want flat black, you're done. Peel the tape off. If you want gloss black apply plasti-dip glossifier. For a super smooth finish, use a tack cloth lightly between dry coats to remove overspray.

Best part is, if you don't like it, you can peel it off and you've only spent about $15-20.