Keeping car door seals properly lubricated is an important part of vehicle maintenance. Door seals help keep out water, wind noise, and dust. When they become dried out or cracked, seals can fail, allowing moisture and debris to enter the interior. Using the right lubricant can restore plastic and rubber seals to keep your doors closing tightly.
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Why Lubricate Door Seals?
Door seals are made from materials like rubber, vinyl, and plastic. Over time, exposure to weather and normal use can cause seals to dry out and crack. This allows air, water, and noise to enter the cabin. Keeping seals lubricated helps protect them and maintain a tight seal.
Lubricating seals can:
- Restore dried out, cracked seals
- Help seals last longer before needing replacement
- Prevent wind noise from entering cabin
- Keep water out of the interior during rain or car washes
- Stop dust and debris from entering interior
- Improve energy efficiency by reducing air leaks
- Prevent odors from entering cabin
Door seals commonly become dried out and in need of lubrication as vehicles age. Hot and dry climates can accelerate seal wear. Lubricating seals regularly as part of routine maintenance helps keep them pliable and sealing properly.
What Type of Lubricant to Use?
Choosing the right lubricant is important, as some products can actually damage seals. Here are some tips on lubricant types for door seals:
- Silicone lubricants – Designed specifically for rubber and plastic, silicone-based lubricants are safe for seals. They penetrate deep to restore flexibility.
- Vaseline or petroleum jelly – An affordable option, petroleum jelly can revitalize seals. Look for pure jelly without additives.
- Glycerin – Safe for rubber and plastics, glycerin moisturizes seals to keep them from drying out.
- Vegetable oil – Oils like coconut and olive oil can be used sparingly to condition seals.
- Avoid petroleum-based oils – Products like WD-40 can damage rubber. Stick to silicone, vegetable, or glycerin-based lubricants.
- Do not use armor all – Chemicals in vinyl protectants like Armor All can degrade seals over time.
How to Apply Seal Lubricant
Lubricating door seals is a quick and simple process. Here are the basic steps:
- Clean seals first – Remove dirt and old lubricant with soap and water. Dry seals thoroughly.
- Apply lubricant – Use a small brush or lint-free cloth to apply a thin coating along seal surface.
- Remove excess – Wipe away any noticeable excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
- Allow to dry – Give the lubricant time to be fully absorbed into the seal, around 30 minutes.
- Reapply occasionally – Lubricate seals every 6 months or more often if needed.
Focus lubrication along the parts of the seal that actually make contact when doors close. Avoid getting lubricant on painted door edges or glass window edges, as this can create a mess. A little lubricant goes a long way – a thin coating is ideal.
Reviews of Best Lubricants for Car Door Seals
These top-rated lubricant products are recommended for renewing car door seals:
1. Dupli-Color Vinyl & Plastic Coating
Type: Silicone-based
Benefits: Restores flexibility, protects against future drying, includes applicator
Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
2. Lucas Slick Mist Speed Wax
Type: Silicone and petroleum distillates
Benefits: Repels water, lubricates, protects paint, easy spray application
Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
3. 303 Aerospace Protectant
Type: Water-based silicone formula
Benefits: Prevents fade, conditions plastic, vinyl, and rubber
Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
4. Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash
Type: Rich car wash concentrate
Benefits: Cuts through dirt, lifts away grime safely, includes conditioners
Amazon Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
5. Chemical Guys SPI_663_16 HydroSlick Ceramic Coating
Type: Ceramic coating
Benefits: Hydrophobic gloss finish that repels water, dust, and contaminates
Amazon Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
DIY Seal Lubricants
Don’t have a commercial lubricant on hand? You may be able to mix up your own basic lubricant for seals using common household items:
| DIY Lubricant | What You’ll Need |
|---|---|
| Vegetable Oil Mixture |
|
| Glycerin Mixture |
|
| Bar Soap Application |
|
Mix vegetable oil or glycerin with water at a 1:1 ratio in a small container. Use a clean paintbrush or lint-free rag to apply a thin coating on seals. For bar soap, dampen the seal lightly with water first. Then rub the soap bar over the seal surface to leave a thin soap film. Wipe any drips or excess.
Tips for Lubricating Door Seals
To keep your door seals in optimum condition, follow these tips:
- Inspect seals regularly for cracks or dryness. Look along the door edges while doors are open.
- Clean seals before applying lubricant to remove dirt buildup.
- Use minimal lubricant – a thin coat is all that’s needed.
- Apply lubricant evenly along the length of the seal, especially where it makes contact.
- Allow lubricant to fully absorb rather than wiping completely dry.
- Lubricate door seals every 6 months as preventative maintenance.
- Reapply sooner if extreme weather dries out seals quickly.
- Ensure good door alignment to prevent excess seal wear.
- Consider replacing badly worn or dried seals for best sealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really necessary to lubricate door seals?
Yes, lubricating seals regularly is recommended to keep them in good condition. Door seals are made from materials that can dry out over time. Lubricant helps keep seals flexible and reducing cracking and shrinkage. Properly lubricated seals provide better protection against wind noise and moisture.
What is the best lubricant to use on door seals?
Silicone-based lubricants specifically designed for use on rubber and plastics are ideal. Products like Shin-Etsu Silicone Lubricant or DuPont Non-Stick Dry-Film Lubricant work well for seals. Avoid products with petroleum, mineral oils, or solvents that could degrade seal materials.
How often should you lubricate door seals?
A good rule of thumb is to lubricate door seals about every 6 months. More frequent application may be needed in climates that are very hot, sunny, or dry. Watch for visible cracks or feel for stiff, dried sections to determine when seals need lubrication.
Will lubricating seals attract more dirt?
When applied correctly, lubricants should fully absorb without leaving an oily residue. A thin, dry coating will help repel dirt rather than attracting it. Avoid using excess lubricant that could transfer to clothing or collect debris. Keep the vehicle clean to prevent buildup.
Can I use olive oil or coconut oil to lubricate seals?
Yes, pure vegetable-based oils can be safely used on rubber and plastic seals. Mix a 50/50 solution of water and oil in a spray bottle. Test on a small area first and wipe away any excess. Vegetable oils provide mild lubrication and conditioning for seals.
Conclusion
Lubricating car door seals is an easy and inexpensive way to keep seals functioning properly. With the right lubricant and regular application, you can restore flexibility to dried seals and prevent damage from occurring. This helps keep the vehicle interior clean and dry while reducing wind noise. Be sure to use approved products like silicone lubricants that are designed for plastics and rubbers. With proper care, lubricated seals will provide many years of reliable service.