Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant Review: Shine and UV Protection for Trim
Our Verdict
Ultimate Protectant is a ready-to-use dressing for vinyl, rubber and plastic that adds UV blockers and a darker, shinier finish, inside the car and on exterior trim and tires. It dries fast and resists streaking in rain. The gloss is not for everyone, and it must be kept off controls. For owners who want visible richness, it is a solid, affordable pick.
Interior protectants split into two camps: matte products that try to look like nothing is there, and dressings that darken and add shine. Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant is firmly in the second camp. Meguiar's says it creates a rich shine and darkness on interior surfaces and brings life back to exterior trim, moldings and tires, with what the company calls UV clear coat technology for sun protection.
What you get
A 15.2-ounce spray bottle, ready to use, for vinyl, rubber and plastic. That covers dashboards, door panels, exterior trim pieces and tire sidewalls, so one bottle works inside and out. Meguiar's claims the protection and shine last for weeks, that the formula dries fast without a greasy finish, and that on exterior parts it withstands washing and rain without streaking.
How it's used
Meguiar's directions are to shake well and work on a clean, cool surface. Put a small amount on a microfiber towel, terry cloth or applicator pad instead of spraying the dash directly, spread it evenly, and wipe off the excess. Wiping down with a dry towel also knocks the gloss back a step if the first coat looks too wet. Neglected, faded plastic may need two or three applications. Clean first with an interior cleaner such as Adam's Total Interior Cleaner so the dressing is not sealing in dust.
Where it falls short
The finish is the deciding factor. If your car has a low-sheen dash, this will change how it looks, and a shiny dash top can reflect in the windshield. Buyers who want an invisible result should look at 303 Automotive Protectant. Like any dressing, it should stay off pedals, steering wheel rims and floor mats, where a slick surface is a hazard. It is not for leather, fabric or screens. And "weeks" of durability means regular reapplication.
Who it's for
Owners who like a darker, richer look on plastic and vinyl, or who want one bottle for both interior panels and faded exterior trim. See the alternatives in our dash and trim UV protectant guide. Check price on Amazon
Pros
- UV protection for vinyl, rubber and plastic
- Dries fast without a greasy feel
- Works on interior and exterior trim
- Darkens and revives faded plastic
Cons
- Adds shine that some owners will not want
- Slippery if it gets on pedals or the wheel
- Needs reapplying every few weeks