Water-based UV protectant for vinyl, rubber and plastic

303 Aerospace Protectant

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£19.99

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Size 473ml

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303 Aerospace Protectant 303 Aerospace Protectant £19.99

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The 303 Aerospace Protectant is a premium UV protection and surface dressing designed to preserve, restore and protect vinyl, rubber, plastics, fibreglass and exterior trim surfaces against fading, cracking and environmental damage. Originally developed for demanding marine and aerospace environments, this advanced protectant is widely trusted by detailers, boat owners and automotive enthusiasts looking for long-term surface protection without greasy residue.

  • Water-based formula free from silicone oils
  • Dries to a clear matte finish
  • Helps prevent fading, cracking and drying
  • Blocks up to 98% of UV with consistent use
  • Anti-static, repels dust, smudges and staining
  • For vinyl, rubber, plastic and fibreglass
  • Reapply every 30 to 45 days
  • Available in 296ml, 473ml and 946ml
Read the full description

Full Description

The 303 Aerospace Protectant is a premium UV protection and surface dressing designed to preserve, restore and protect vinyl, rubber, plastics, fibreglass and exterior trim surfaces against fading, cracking and environmental damage. Originally developed for demanding marine and aerospace environments, this advanced protectant is widely trusted by detailers, boat owners and automotive enthusiasts looking for long-term surface protection without greasy residue.

Unlike traditional silicone-heavy dressings that leave oily finishes and attract dust, 303 Aerospace Protectant uses a water-based UV screening formula that restores a clean, factory-fresh appearance while helping prevent oxidation, drying and colour fading caused by prolonged sun exposure.

Suitable for both automotive and marine environments, this versatile protectant can be used across dashboards, trims, rubber seals, tonneau covers, vinyl roofs, engine bay plastics, marine seating, inflatable boats and outdoor equipment.

Key Features

  • Premium UV surface protectant
  • Helps prevent fading, cracking and discolouration
  • Non-greasy factory-style finish
  • Safe on vinyl, rubber, plastics and fibreglass
  • Marine and automotive compatible
  • Repels dirt and staining
  • Silicone oil and petroleum distillate free

Technical Information

Specification Details
Product Type UV protectant and surface dressing
Formula Type Water-based protective coating
Finish Natural satin / OEM-style finish
UV Protection Yes
Silicone Free Yes
Petroleum Distillate Free Yes
Surface Compatibility Vinyl, rubber, plastics, fibreglass, trim
Application Method Spray and wipe

Performance Characteristics

  • Helps block damaging UV exposure
  • Restores colour and surface appearance
  • Prevents drying and cracking over time
  • Repels dust, dirt and staining
  • Leaves surfaces clean without greasy residue
  • Helps prevent inflatable materials sticking during storage

Suitable Surfaces

  • Dashboard plastics
  • Exterior trim
  • Rubber seals and weather stripping
  • Vinyl seats and tonneau covers
  • Fibreglass surfaces
  • Marine seating and boat interiors
  • Inflatable boats and water sports equipment
  • Outdoor gear and accessories

Recommended Application Method

  1. Clean the surface thoroughly before application
  2. Spray directly onto surface or applicator towel
  3. Spread evenly across the area
  4. Buff lightly using a dry microfibre towel if required
  5. Reapply periodically for continued UV protection

Applications

  • Automotive interior protection
  • Exterior trim restoration
  • Marine detailing and maintenance
  • Rubber and vinyl conditioning
  • Outdoor equipment protection
  • Caravan and motorhome detailing

Benefits

  • Long-term UV protection for vulnerable surfaces
  • Non-greasy finish ideal for interior use
  • Helps maintain factory-fresh appearance
  • Safe across a huge range of materials
  • Suitable for automotive, marine and outdoor environments
  • Trusted by professionals and enthusiasts worldwide

HQ Suggests (Tips & Insights)

  • 💡 Excellent for maintaining black exterior trim without creating an overly glossy finish.
  • 💡 Ideal for convertible roof seals and rubber weather stripping.
  • 💡 Works particularly well on dashboards exposed to strong sunlight.
  • 💡 Regular application helps reduce long-term fading on marine seating and vinyl.
  • 💡 Always apply to clean dry surfaces for best durability and finish quality.

The 303 Aerospace Protectant is part of our range at the Ilkeston detailing store, where our team can advise on trim restoration, UV protection and interior detailing products. We also provide fast, reliable UK-wide delivery for enthusiasts and professional detailers.

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Key features

  • UV Protectant
  • Water-Based
  • Matte Finish
  • Silicone Free
  • Anti-Static

The Drivers HQ

Expert Notes

303 Aerospace Protectant is a water-based UV protectant for vinyl, rubber, plastic, gel coat, fibreglass, carbon fibre and finished leather. It dries to a clear matte finish rather than a wet shine, which suits dashboards, door panels, tyres and trim, and it is also used on boat seats, spa covers and patio furniture. 303 states it blocks up to 98% of UV radiation with proper, consistent use, and its anti-static finish repels dust and staining. The formula contains no petroleum distillates, alcohol, mineral oil or harmful silicone oils. Apply it to a clean, dry surface out of direct sunlight, then wipe completely dry, as it does not air dry. Pair it with a trim or interior cleaner and clean microfibre towels, and reapply every 30 to 45 days.

Perfect For / Suitable Surfaces

  • Dashboards and door panels
  • Tyres and exterior trim
  • Vinyl convertible tops
  • Vinyl boat seats and interiors
  • Hypalon inflatables and wetsuits
  • Spa covers
  • Outdoor patio furniture
  • Motorhome EPDM rubber roofs

Caution: Not for clear plastics, gauge panels, headlights, unfinished leather such as suede, canvas, fabrics or flooring. Keep overspray off glass, where it can leave cloudiness.

Technical Specifications

Product Type
UV Protectant
Brand
303
Not Suitable For
Clear Plastics, Unfinished Leather, Canvas And Fabrics, Flooring, Gauge Panels, Headlights
Size
296ml, 473ml, 946ml
Formula
Water-Based, Silicone-Free
Application Method
Spray On, Wipe And Buff Completely Dry
Finish
Clear Matte, Non-Greasy
Compatibility
Vinyl, Rubber, Plastic, PVC, Gel Coat, Fibreglass, Carbon Fibre, Finished Leather
Free From
Petroleum Distillates, Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Silicone Oils
UV Blocking
Up To 98% With Proper, Consistent Use
Reapplication
Every 30 To 45 Days
Coverage
About 40 Sq Ft Per 473ml Bottle

How To Use

Application

  1. Clean the surface and let it dry fully before applying 303 Aerospace Protectant.
  2. Work out of direct sunlight and lay a drop cloth under the item to catch overspray.
  3. Spray directly onto the surface or onto a clean microfibre towel.
  4. Spread it evenly, then wipe the area thoroughly and completely dry, as it does not air dry.
  5. Give it extra buffing to improve bonding, repellency and durability.

Aftercare

  1. If streaks appear, too much product was used, so remove the excess with a damp towel and buff dry.
  2. If streaks show after rain, wash the area with hot water, let it dry fully, then reapply and buff it completely dry.
  3. Reapply every 30 to 45 days to keep up UV protection.
  4. Remove any overspray on glass with hot water, a soft brush, then soap and water.
  5. Store the bottle closed and upright, away from heat and frost.

Top Tip: Buff until the surface feels dry to the touch, because leftover product is what causes streaks later.

Performance Benefits

  • Helps prevent fading and cracking
  • Restores lost colour and lustre
  • Repels smudges, soiling and staining
  • Reapply every 30 to 45 days
  • Treats vinyl, rubber and plastic
  • Spray on and wipe dry

Frequently Asked Questions

What sizes does 303 Aerospace Protectant come in?

It is available in 296ml, 473ml and 946ml bottles, which are the 10oz, 16oz and 32oz sizes in the 303 range. Every size holds the same water-based protectant.

What finish does it leave?

303 Aerospace Protectant dries to a clear matte finish with no oily or greasy residue. It restores colour and lustre without leaving a shiny film.

Which surfaces can I use it on?

303 lists vinyl, plastic, synthetic and natural rubber, PVC, finished leather, gel coat, fibreglass and carbon fibre. On a car that covers dashboards, door panels, tyres and trim.

Where should I not use it?

Do not use it on clear plastics, gauge panels, headlights, unfinished leather such as suede, canvas, other fabrics or flooring. 303 does not recommend it on fabrics because it is a water-based formula.

How long does one application last?

303 recommends reapplying every 30 to 45 days to keep up protection against UV. Wiping it completely dry and buffing well improves bonding and durability.

Does it contain silicone?

No, 303 states it contains no harmful silicone oils, petroleum distillates, alcohol or mineral oil. It is a water-based formula.

Why has it left streaks?

Streaks mean too much product was applied or it was not fully buffed in. Wash the area with hot water, let it dry fully, then reapply and buff completely dry.

Is it the same as 303 Automotive Protectant?

Yes, 303 states the protectant formula is the same and only the label changes with the market it is sold in. The benefits and application method are identical.

HQ Suggests Tips & Insights

  1. Clean the surface first so the protectant can bond properly.
  2. Apply in the shade on a cool, dry surface.
  3. Use a drop cloth when treating items near glass or flooring.
  4. Spray onto a microfibre towel for dashboards and door panels.
  5. Wipe until completely dry, as it does not air dry.
  6. Avoid woven or porous surfaces, which can trap product and streak later.
  7. Set a reminder to reapply every 30 to 45 days.
  8. Available online with UK-wide delivery or from our walk-in store in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

The Brand

303

303 is an American surface protection brand that has been a trusted name in its field since 1980. Its protectant was first developed to protect aircraft rubber wing boots at high altitude, and the formulas now care for cars, boats, RVs and outdoor gear. Since 2012, 303 has belonged to Gold Eagle Co., the Chicago company behind STA-BIL, which says its branded products, 303 included, are manufactured in the United States at its facilities in Chicago. The brand line is Proven to Protect.

At The Drivers HQ we stock 303 online with UK delivery and in our Ilkeston shop. Popular choices include 303 Aerospace Protectant, the Automotive Speed Detailer and the Slick Shine Ceramic Detailer.

303 Speed Detailer, Protectant Wipes, Aerospace Protectant and Wheel & Tire Cleaner on a black display plinth

303 protectants, trim and leather care

Aerospace Protectant. The product 303 is known for, in 296ml, 473ml and 946ml. 303 describes it as a water-based formula with no petroleum distillates, alcohol, mineral oil or harmful silicone oils, which dries to a clear matte finish, blocks UV to help stop fading and cracking, and repels dust and stains. It suits vinyl, plastic, rubber, finished leather and fibreglass, but not clear plastics, suede, fabrics, flooring, gauge panels or headlights. Spray it onto a clean, dry surface out of direct sun and wipe it completely dry, because it does not air dry; 303 says to reapply every 30 to 45 days. The same protection comes as Automotive Protectant 473ml and in a tub of 25 Protectant Wipes.

Trim, seals and tyres. Rubber Seal Protectant comes in a 101ml bottle with an applicator for door, window, bonnet and boot seals, and helps them keep their elasticity. Graphene Trim Coating is a non-greasy coating for faded trim that 303 rates at up to 6 months, and Tyre Coating & Protectant is a water-based, sling-free aerosol that dries to a satin shine with no brush needed.

Leather. A two-step system: Leather Cleaner lifts stains and preps the surface, then Leather Conditioner softens the leather and adds UV protection that 303 rates at 30 days. Both suit finished and unfinished leather.

Fabric and stains. Multi-Surface Cleaner removes spots of coffee, oil, grease and ink from water-safe surfaces, and Mold & Mildew Cleaner + Blocker removes mould stains without bleach. Fabric Guard restores water and stain repellency to outdoor fabrics, such as a convertible roof's seams, and is not for interior fabrics.

Shop more plastic and vinyl protectants, trim dressings and leather cleaners.

303 Speed Detailer being sprayed onto the bonnet of a blue car on a driveway

303 detailers, coatings and wheel cleaners

Between washes. The Automotive Speed Detailer is mist-on, wipe-off gloss for paint, plastics, fibreglass, chrome and glass, with anti-static properties and UV blockers. The Slick Shine Ceramic Detailer is infused with SiO2 and carnauba wax, works on wet paint as a drying aid or on dry paint, and is safe on matte paint. The Graphene Detailer tops up existing coatings, works wet or dry and lasts up to 90 days, and the Automotive Spray Wax cleans off water spots and dust and leaves protection rated at up to 90 days.

Coating. Graphene Nano Spray Coating is a graphene oxide based spray coating that 303 rates at 12 months. It is strongly hydrophobic, helps reduce water spots by lowering the surface temperature, can be applied in direct sunlight and also goes on glass, wheels and trim.

Wheels. Wheel & Tire Cleaner is a foaming, acid-free and non-corrosive cleaner for wheels and tyres: spray onto cool, rinsed surfaces, leave for 2 minutes, agitate and rinse. Heavy Duty Wheel Cleaner is acid free too, removes brake dust and caked-on dirt, and also works as a paint decontamination spray for embedded fallout before polishing.

Shop more quick detailers, paint sealants and wheel cleaners.

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