Revolutionize Your Car’s Look: How to Plasti Dip Tail Lights Like a Pro

Are you looking to give your car a unique and stylish makeover without breaking the bank? Plasti Dip is a fantastic option for customizing your ride, and tail lights are a popular target for this versatile coating. If you’re wondering how to plasti dip tail lights, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve a professional and eye-catching finish.

Why Choose Plasti Dip for Your Tail Lights?

Plasti Dip offers numerous advantages over traditional paint jobs, making it an ideal choice for tail light customization:

• Easy Application: Plasti Dip is a spray-on rubber coating that dries quickly and can be applied by anyone with a basic understanding of spray painting.
• Removable and Re-appliable: Unlike paint, Plasti Dip can be peeled off, allowing you to easily change the color or remove it completely without damaging the original surface.
• Protection: Plasti Dip forms a protective layer over your tail lights, shielding them from scratches, chips, and UV damage.
• Cost-Effective: Plasti Dip is significantly less expensive than professional paint jobs, making it an affordable way to personalize your vehicle.
• Variety of Colors and Finishes: Plasti Dip comes in a wide range of colors, including metallics, fluorescents, and even textured finishes, allowing you to create a unique look for your car.

Essential Supplies for Plasti Dip Tail Light Transformation

Before you get started, ensure you have all the necessary supplies:

• Plasti Dip: Choose a color and finish that complements your car’s aesthetic.
• Primer: A primer specifically designed for plastics will ensure optimal adhesion.
• Masking Tape: Use high-quality masking tape to protect areas you don’t want to coat.
• Newspaper or Drop Cloth: Protect your work area from overspray.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the Plasti Dip.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from overspray.
• Spray Gun or Cans: Choose a spray gun for a smoother finish or cans for convenience.
• Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need rubbing alcohol, soap, and water for cleaning before and after application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Plasti Dip Tail Lights

Now that you have your supplies, let’s dive into the process of transforming your tail lights with Plasti Dip:

1. Preparation is Key:

• Clean Your Tail Lights: Thoroughly clean your tail lights with soap and water, then wipe them down with rubbing alcohol to remove any remaining residue.
• Mask Surrounding Areas: Use masking tape to protect areas adjacent to your tail lights, such as the bodywork, trim, and brake lights.
• Degrease the Surface: Once the tail lights are clean and dry, apply a degreaser to ensure optimal adhesion.

2. Apply a Primer:

• Choose a Plastic Primer: Select a primer specifically formulated for plastics to ensure proper adhesion of the Plasti Dip.
• Apply Evenly: Apply a thin, even coat of primer to your tail lights. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

3. Time for Plasti Dip:

• Shake Well: Thoroughly shake the Plasti Dip can or mix the Plasti Dip in your spray gun.
• Apply Thin Coats: Apply thin, even coats of Plasti Dip to your tail lights. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Multiple Layers for Depth: To achieve a smooth and durable finish, apply 4-6 thin coats of Plasti Dip.
• Avoid Overspray: Be careful not to get Plasti Dip on areas you’ve masked.

4. The Finishing Touches:

• Let It Cure: Allow the Plasti Dip to cure completely for at least 24 hours.
• Remove Masking Tape: Carefully remove the masking tape, ensuring you don’t tear the Plasti Dip.
• Inspect for Imperfections: If you notice any imperfections, you can easily sand them down with fine-grit sandpaper and apply another coat of Plasti Dip.

Tips for a Professional Plasti Dip Job

• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Plasti Dip releases fumes, so it’s crucial to work in a well-ventilated space.
• Use a Consistent Spray Pattern: Maintain a consistent distance and spray pattern for even coverage.
• Avoid Overspray: Be careful not to get Plasti Dip on areas you don’t want to coat.
• Practice on a Test Panel: Before applying Plasti Dip to your tail lights, practice on a test panel to get a feel for the application process.
• Clean Up Immediately: Clean your spray gun or cans and any spills immediately with Plasti Dip remover or soap and water.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Creativity to Your Tail Lights

Once you’ve mastered the basics of Plasti Dip application, you can explore various creative techniques to personalize your tail lights:

• Color Combinations: Experiment with different color combinations to create unique and eye-catching designs.
• Textured Finishes: Use Plasti Dip with textured finishes to add a unique touch to your tail lights.
• Custom Designs: Use stencils or masking tape to create intricate designs on your tail lights.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Plasti Dip: Add a touch of magic with glow-in-the-dark Plasti Dip for a striking effect at night.

Beyond the Tail Lights: Expand Your Customization

Plasti Dip is a versatile coating that can be used to customize various parts of your car, including:

• Wheels: Give your wheels a fresh look with Plasti Dip.
• Grilles: Transform your car’s front grille for a more aggressive appearance.
• Bumpers: Protect your bumpers from scratches and add a unique touch.
• Door Handles: Upgrade the look of your door handles with Plasti Dip.
• Mirrors: Give your mirrors a personalized touch with Plasti Dip.

The Final Touches: Maintaining Your Plasti Dip Tail Lights

To ensure your Plasti Dip tail lights remain in top condition for years to come, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Wash your car regularly with soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your Plasti Dip tail lights.
• Protect from UV Damage: Park your car in a garage or under a car cover to protect your Plasti Dip from harmful UV rays.

Beyond the Finish Line: FAQs About Plasti Dip Tail Lights

1. How long does Plasti Dip last on tail lights?

Plasti Dip can last for several years on tail lights, depending on factors such as weather conditions, exposure to UV rays, and proper maintenance.

2. Can I use Plasti Dip on LED tail lights?

Yes, you can use Plasti Dip on LED tail lights. However, it’s important to ensure that the Plasti Dip doesn‘t block any light from the LEDs.

3. Is Plasti Dip waterproof?

Plasti Dip is water-resistant but not waterproof. It’s important to apply multiple coats and allow the Plasti Dip to cure completely to ensure water resistance.

4. Can I use Plasti Dip on clear tail lights?

Yes, you can use Plasti Dip on clear tail lights. However, it’s important to use a light coat of Plasti Dip to avoid obscuring the light from the tail lights.

5. Can I remove Plasti Dip from my tail lights?

Yes, you can easily remove Plasti Dip from your tail lights by peeling it off. However, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid damaging the original surface.

Embark on Your Plasti Dip Journey Today!

With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on your Plasti Dip tail light transformation journey. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving a professional finish. So, gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the satisfaction of customizing your ride with Plasti Dip!