The rubber seal around the windshield of your vehicle helps ensure that by forming a tight seal that prevents leakage. Sunlight, harsh weather conditions, ozone, and various forms of dirt and debris are all harmful to the rubber. As rubber ages it fades, it becomes hard and brittle, and cracks. A rubber gasket faded and worn windshield detracts from the appearance of your vehicle and makes the windshield less secure. Repair and restoration of the rubber gasket is an easy procedure and much cheaper than having it done professionally.

Explanation

1. Protect surrounding areas and the car windshield with blue painter’s tape.
2. Wipe the rubber seal with mineral spirits and mineral spirits rag. The remove dirt, debris, dirt and oxidation. Continue cleaning until out in black cloth.
3. Clean the rubber molding with an automatic cleaner and degreaser. Spray the cleaner and fit with the use of an abrasive pad to clean it.
4. Cut loose and steep edges of the rubber with a knife. Sand the damaged areas with sandpaper 220 grit to smooth the rough edges.
5. Fill nicks, cracks and crevices with caulk urethane. Smooth the caulk with a damp cloth and let dry completely. Lightly sand the repaired areas with sandpaper 220 grit until smooth.
6. Apply rubber dye to restore the color. Rubber tint setting is the best way to restore the color. Purchase a rubber tint adjustment, as always in an auto parts store. Trim dye is easy to use and comes with a foam applicator tip. Apply stain evenly and smoothly with the applicator trip. If the setting is severely faded, you may have to repeat this step.
7. Spray the molding with a protective rubber. Protectors such as Pinnacle Rubber & Vinyl Protector are also available at auto parts stores. They are easy to apply and protect the rubber against UV and ozone damage.