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Aluminium vs Stainless Bull Bars: How to Keep Each One Shining

Alloy oxidises, stainless tea-stains. The care is different, and so is the fix.

Bull bars cop the worst of the road: bugs, tar, stones and sun. Whether yours is aluminium or stainless steel changes how it ages and how it should be looked after.

Aluminium bull bars

Alloy bars are light and look great polished, but they oxidise and turn dull grey or white and powdery. They need a proper cut to remove the oxidised layer before they’ll shine again, followed by a sealant.

Stainless steel bull bars

Stainless is tougher and doesn’t oxidise the same way, but it picks up brown ‘tea staining’, especially near the coast, plus swirl marks from rough cleaning. It needs de-staining and a refining polish rather than a heavy cut.

Care tips for both

  • Remove bug splatter quickly. It’s acidic and etches the surface.
  • Avoid abrasive pads and scourers.
  • Rinse off salt after coastal runs.
  • Book a professional polish before damage gets deep.

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