Automotive Part PickerCar Problems › Exterior plastic trim, weatherstripping, or molding peeling off

Exterior plastic trim, weatherstripping, or molding peeling off: Causes & How to Fix It

If your vehicle is showing exterior plastic trim, weatherstripping, or molding peeling off, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.

Most likely causes

Adhesive Degradationminor

Over time, UV rays, heat, and moisture break down the double-sided tape or adhesive holding exterior trim and weatherstripping to the vehicle.

Broken or Missing Retaining Clipsminor

Plastic clips that secure trim pieces become brittle over time and can snap from normal driving vibrations or minor bumps.

Poor Surface Preparationminor

If the paint surface wasn't thoroughly cleaned of wax, dirt, or old adhesive before installing new trim, the new adhesive will fail prematurely.

Physical Impact or Snaggingminor

Catching the trim on an automated car wash brush, road debris, or during a minor scrape can physically tear the molding off its mounts.

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