AT A GLANCE | SOLUTION FINISH

The old adage of "They certainly don't make them like they used to" is the perfect segue when introducing Solution Finish. Auto manufacturers are now off-setting the amount of quality with respect to the cellulose embedded within their exterior plastics by luring you into all the trappings of a bedazzling interior (i.e., navigation systems, ventilated seats, sound systems, intuitive driving capabilities). When your exterior plastics start to oxidize, solution finish is a hearty "band-aid solution" but is not, I repeat, is not what I would consider a top-tier option for protecting your exterior plastics. So why even suggest it? At the end of the day, everyone is on a budget, and if you're looking for a product that's light on the wallet, this is one that is worth mentioning.

The one draw to solution finish, much like that of any other product in its category, is that a small amount goes a long way, not to mention should be easy to apply if a proper application is successfully executed. Naturally, only a few dime-sized drops will cover an entire back bumper with plenty of product to spare. The one element to any product of this class is that it's categorized as a "dye" and not a form of long-term protection for your plastics. So the question is, "Where does Solution Finish come into play?"

If you possess that one vehicle that had been neglected most of its life, and you know who you are, Solution Finish is a great option and you'll undoubtedly see a stark contrast. As per manufacturer recommendations, Solution Finish guarantees its formula to last for an upwards of up to one year. Although, in my experience with using this product, a real estimate would hover around the 7-9 month mark. Mind you, this was applied to a handful of weekend toys that were generally kept in a sheltered environment 5-6 days out of the week. Of course, this claim will vary depending on other variables such as climate, frequency of driving, and other factors. For a product that's light on the wallet, that sounds pretty attractive.

It's absolutely vital that you work clean when applying this product. What do I mean by "work clean"? What I mean is that prior to any application, you need to purge the area of any contamination (i.e. traffic film, dust, dirt, debris, and any other residual oils that may be resting on the surface) so the bond is strong between the product and the panel it's being applied to, so be sure to execute a thorough wash. Once the area is clean and dry to the touch, take a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol and distilled water in a 32 oz. bottle and wipe-off any remaining oils that may interfere with the application.

As mentioned in the beginning of this article, a small amount of product will go a long way. Applying too much to one area can actually create difficulties, and other consumers have posted disgruntled reviews expressing their disappointment in the product. When proceeding forward with any application, be sure to use too little rather than too much. Once a small layer has been applied with a small microfiber applicator pad, adjust your lighting at all angles to ensure an even and thorough application.

If you aren't particularly satisfied with the results, I recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours before another layer is added. Below you'll see a representation of what you can achieve with just one layer.

Something I haven't entertained in some of my other reviews is something I'd like to introduce as the "Blackstone Score". A general means of quantifying car care products, this should be easy to follow. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being poor and 10 being outstanding, I would rate Solution Finish as a solid 7. So, with that being said, it doesn't strike me as an outstanding product, but it certainly gets the job done for the enthusiast and discernable consumer who needs an inexpensive option to restoring exterior plastics. Other reviews of this category will follow. Pick yourself up a bottle and revive what was once old into something refreshing.

Blackstone Score | 7