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Hi all - apologies I've not been about much... wife has bought a 996 C4S.
Anyone got any suggestions for the above?
They look crap - sort of milky knackered looking...

A lot of Audi aluminium parts seem to go like this. I believe in theory they're protected by a thin layer of lacquer or something which is meant to protect it and make it last.

The first things to go are usually the aluminium trims surrounding the side windows, and roof rails are the other vulnerable area.

When the vehicle was in the original new car warranty then you might have got them changed by Audi. AFAIK the used warranty does not cover ageing of trims? But I fear other than paying the full cost of replacing them then you have no other option at this point in time.

Have had 2 avants with chrome roof rails and both have suffered from this... Have learnt to just live with it.

They are always aluminium as opposed to chrome plated steel. There are three finishes - polished, silver anodised matt finish, and black anodised matt finish. for some reason the black one doesn't seem to be as affected as the silver ones?

Anyone got any suggestions for the above?

Paint 'em black

A lot of topics have been on colour wraps for the car.

Could you have all of the aluminium items wrapped in mat black vinyl?

have been told it is due to the harsh chemicals used in some car washes ?

Try using some Johnsons Baby oil, it works on dull stainless steel and should at least make the anodised aluminium look uniform in colour.
Worth a bash as it will come off with some detergent. I put it on using a small lint free rag.
Give me a shout once youve given it a go.

thanks chaps - I'll have a go at the weekend and let you know how I get on - seems spraying might be the only option though...