Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Give plastic a chrome like finish/mimic OEM automotive finishes

2003

I would like to know where to purchase materials necessary to rechrome automotive interior plastics. With good, shiny, durable results. It doesn't even have to be genuine "chrome", just give the appearance of it. I understand a real chrome finish involves process's I will never have access to.(vacuum finished).

I am refinishing a 1972 Nova SS dash bezel. I want it to look as "factory as possible. I refinish old cars , and parts are sometimes nonexistent. I have no plan of action. I need knowledge (to above question) to proceed .Many cars will live right, if this get's figured out!

Gene Hunsinger
- Berwick

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2003

He, Gene. I don't know the specifics of that car, but yes it is possible that interior parts from cars of that vintage were vacuum metallized. Had the parts been chrome plated, they probably would not need re-doing as that is an extremely durable process used for exterior exposure on grills and lamp surrounds.

The closest you will get with "paint type" products is probably the high-tech "chrome -like" paints from the companies listed in the banner near the top of this page. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey