Today, a reduced carbon footprint within the manufacturing industry results in higher demands from the sub-suppliers of components and raw materials. On the other hand, an increased number of recycled goods in the manufacturing process challenges the total appearance of plastic components. Yet, the demands on the perceived quality of plastic components have tightened in the field to remain in a premium segment, and the specification of plastic components in a car interior is probably stricter than ever regarding customer acceptance. The question is, do today’s tolerances of plastic components regarding design and perceived quality serve in harmony with a higher level of recycled material in future components, or should the industry adapt its tolerances? Texture, gloss, and color variation have a great impact on the perceived quality of materials and have been an issue historically within the manufacturing industry of plastic components. This paper presents the results of a pilot study where typical gloss and color variation in plastic pieces was evaluated. Historically, the gloss and color variation occurs generally more often with increased recycled content; however, in this study, the color variation was simulated and controlled in virgin material. Significant links have been found between the total appearance, perceived quality, and production properties by using a tailormade method and toolbox based on Kansei Engineering (KE) combining qualitative- and quantitative methods. © 2025 The Author(s). Published by IOP Publishing Ltd.