fs968

Got a 2009 TL SH-AWD, I was wondering which protectant I should use for the dash . . . Optimum Protectant Plus or the 303???

I want a matte finish with UV protection . . . what do you guys think? Please advice!

TSC17

Congrats on the new ride!

Both are great products, but of the two, OPP is the more natural look.

fs968

Thanks for the advice Todd! How about the silver trim inside, do I need to apply the OPP too?

TSC17

I'd just use the OPP on leather, vinyl, and plastic. If you feel that you need to apply something to the metal trim, you could use a product like Klasse All-In-One (very versatile with many different uses).

fs968

Thx Todd! U r the greatest!

exceldetail

303, IMO, leaves a more matte, refreshed look, while OPP provides a protected look. In other words, with the 303, one may wonder if theres something there, and with OPP one would be more suspicious that something had been applied.
303 could also be applied to metal trims, flat or chrome, and then buffed.

TSC17

Either way you're good, because like I said, they're both great products. It's simply the kind of look that you're interested in.

I did a quick test this afternoon on my TL-S to give you an idea of what the differences in appearance are between the two products.

This door panel currently has no protectants on it. I blocked it off into 3 different sections. The middle section will remain natural and unprotected.



I took two different angles since the sun was coming in from the left.



Next I applied Optimum Protectant Plus to the left side, and 303 Aerospace Protectant to the right side. I used separate towels so there was no chance of cross-contamination.



Left = OPP, Middle = natural, Right = 303 Aerospace





Now that you can see them side by side, you can choose which look that you prefer. I obviously have both products in my arsenal, and use them both regularly.

exceldetail

Great example. I get a more matted look as I use a water dampened MF when applying. I should have noted that. My bad..........
Agreed though, either way you look at it, they both look factory fresh..........Im kind of surprised your TL doesnt look like either or, 24-7? I know both of my vehicles could use some TLC..........in a big way.

Rhlieu

Cool comparison Todd! Even your non meticulous write-up is worth a read! Always great info boss!


I'm a 303 man myself. This stuff can clean/protect anything (tires/trim/dash/wheels/engine...the works!!

n0rm

iTrader: (6)

Todd, thanks for going the extra mile to show the differences!

rlerman

Nice! I like the look of the 303, will have to try some.

CMCx2009

+1 on the 303, thanks for the pics man

fs968

Good one Todd!!! Love the OPP!!!I am going to use the OPP; however, on a seperate issue, how can I take off the OPP or the 303 (just in case I want to try the other product)??? Any cleaner or degreaser suggestions?

I think the forum should put this on the sticky!

bukxanger

can i use 303 to protect my leather after conditioning?

DetailedImage

You definitely can use 303 on your leather, it's good to provide it with some UV protection. 303 Aerospace Protectant is one of the most versatile products, as it will UV protect leather, leatherette, rubber, vinyl and plastic. Great product to have in your detailing arsenal.

Optimum Protectant Plus has some more cleaners in it, as well as some UV protection, and leaves a matter finish as Todd demonstrated. Can't go wrong with either product for your interiors.

George

CocheseUGA

Thanks for those pics, Todd. Just happened to pick up some 303 locally this afternoon.

fs968

How about the Zaino's products? Anyone try it?

meagain

Thank you so much for doing this comparison and taking those pics. Very interesting and helpful!

4G Express

I've used the entire system and I think the interior products seriously lack when compared to the extiorior products and the tire shine. I wound up ordering the 303 and prefer it over the Zaino anyday.

Morrissey25

iTrader: (4)

Overall, I am very glad that I went out and brought this today. I hated looking at the discoloration on the dash when I drove... and like you all, I love to drive my car.

I figured that I would do a little comparison using a dry MF vs. a damp MF. I ended up going with the damp MF to protect my Dash. Here are some pics.

Before and After:




Dry MF Side:


Damp MF side:


Comparison:

PhillyxMartin

iTrader: (2)

Wow that stuff works very nice. Thanks for the posting pictures.

Denzil

iTrader: (1)

That's a great comparison Todd, thanks for sharing!

exceldetail

Superb illustration Morrissey25!

fs968

Looks the the damp MF side are much better! Seems to look more of a matte finish.

exceldetail

Agreed, Ive always used a dampened MF myself for interiors. Just preferred that less then factory look!

coykiam

anyone know where i can pick up an OPP or the 303 locally? Autozone? Autobarn? And how much are they? Thanks...

I used to use Meguiars Dash Trim but wasn't really satisfied with the finish. Time for a new one...lol

exceldetail

Optimum is not available at a retail outlet, however both 303 nd Optimum available online here!

Summer

Neat comparisons, thanks! I'm starting to get some mild discolorations on my interior as well, but was afraid to start putting products on without knowing how (if at all) they would alter the look/finish.

These are VERY helpful comparisons. Thanks very much

RyanCHICL

iTrader: (1)

Since we are talking about dash protectant, I applied some Black Magic Protectant to the dashboard on my 04 TL and it left my dashboard white in some spots. I had to scrub my dash with a wet, soapy cloth. I think I took a little finish off the dash because you can see an faint outline where the airbag is now. Does anyone know why it dried white? I was careful on over-applying.

exceldetail

Just about every Acura Ive detailed has that AB outline. Its something you have to live with! Use 303 or Optimum Protectant Plus next time for a really nice finish!