Expert: Dan Gardener - 8/6/2010

Question
QUESTION: An elderly relative has a 1996 ford taurus wagon which is white with white trim down the side.  The white trim is badly stained and has not responded to bleach or scrubbing.  They are no longer able to drive, but they still need to use the car for doctor visits and would like the car to look a little better.  Replacing the trim at a body shop will be cost prohibitive, but if there is a way to clean or paint the trim, then perhaps we can help them with it.  Any advice you can give us would be appreciated.

ANSWER: Hello Jannie
The most cost effective way to go is to use a spray bomb of paint. Choose an accent color and spray all the moldings. Mask them off by  putting paper around so the spray color does not get everywhere.

Thank you for the question
Good luck
Dan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks.  Is there a particular type of paint recommended for this trim work. Would we need to sand or prime

Answer
Hello Jannie

Any 'spray bomb' type paint / color of you choice/ available at any auto parts store will do the job. Use fine sand paper/400 grit or ask the auto parts store people for a 'scotch pad'. made by 3m. Clean off all the moldings and and you are set.

Good Luck

Dan