How to Remove Chrome Trim
by Jenny CarverMany vehicles have chrome trim installed from the factory. Over time the trim can become scratched, torn or dented. You may also get bored with your car looking exactly like every other model on the road. Chrome trim can be removed, but there are steps that need to be taken so that the car isn't scratched or left with marks where the trim was placed. Here are the correct procedures for removal.
Step 1
Locate a corner or end of the chrome trim that you want to remove. Slowly peel up the corner. If the corner won't peel, carefully use a flat head screwdriver to pry it up without scratching the paint.
Step 2
Peel the chrome trim away from the surface of the car. Peeling too fast can cause the trim to break and leave no edge to lift up. Peeling too fast may also damage the paint by peeling it away from the car. Peel all of the chrome trim from the car with slow care.
Step 3
Use a drill and rubber wheel (feels like a pencil eraser) and place the side edge of the rubber wheel on the surface of the car. Use the wheel to remove any residue left behind under the trim by tape or glue adhesive. The rubber wheel heats the residue enough to remove it, but doesn't heat the paint on the car enough to cause damage. Use the wheel on any area with adhesive residue.
Step 4
Wipe the area with a lint-free towel and wax and grease remover. The wax and grease remover will remove any remaining adhesive residue without harming the car's surface.
Things You'll Need
- Wax and grease remover
- Lint-free towel
- Drill
- Rubber wheel to fit on drill
- Flat head screwdriver
Writer Bio
Since 1997 Jenny Carver has served as editor and freelance writer for many offline and online publications including lovetoknow.com, autotropolis.com, "Hoof Beat News," "Import Tuner" and others. Carver owns a custom automotive shop where she has been doing paint and body work, custom interior work and engine building for over 11 years.
