Tips to Protect a Car’s Paint

Dirt will accumulate on a car, no matter where it’s driven. Climate and pollution levels can accelerate the process.

A car’s paint job can be beautiful, and it’s only natural to want to maintain that glossy sheen for as long as possible. With so many ways for damage to occur, it’s essential to know how to protect that clear coating and keep it free from harm.

Here are some tips to protect a car’s paint.

Dirt and debris

Dirt will accumulate on a car, no matter where it’s driven. Climate and pollution levels can accelerate the process. A frequent wash is an excellent way to keep a car contaminant-free. When cleaning a car, hose it down first to remove any grit that may scratch the paint during scrubbing.

Preventing the build-up of dirt is equally necessary. Applying wax to a car is one effective way of doing so. Wax can be self-applied, but a professional detailer will perform a more thorough job. A good wax can provide up to six months of protection from grit and the elements.

Paint protection film is another effective method. It adds a film of thermoplastic urethane over the vehicle’s paint, which is more resistant to minor damage than the original clear coat.

Birds

Bird droppings are the bane of anybody washing a car. The acidity levels in bird droppings can eat away at a car’s clear coat and cause lasting damage if left unchecked. Wipe away any bird droppings with a soft, damp rag as soon as they appear, and wash the car regularly.

UV rays

A car’s finish is sensitive to UV exposure. Even though the coating provides protection, long-term exposure can damage a clear coat and the paint underneath it. Ensure the car isn’t parked in direct sunlight whenever possible. A garage or carport is the best solution. Vehicle owners who don’t have this option should consider investing in a car cover. A garage, carport, or protective cover protects the paint from extreme weather like hail and ice.

Water

Higher acidity content in the rain can damage a car’s coating if not wiped away or completely dried. Winter snow and ice can also stick to a car’s paint and damage it further. Ensure that a proper coat of wax is applied before winter sets in and that the paint job isn’t regularly exposed to the elements.

Mud

If the owner regularly drives their car or truck in rougher terrain or wetter climates, mud flaps will prevent paint damage from stray stones and the gradual corrosion caused by mud.

Salt

Salt in the air or on the road can cause rust and corrosion in a vehicle if left unchecked. While rust usually starts on the underbody of a car, it can work upwards to the paint over time. Apply rust-proofing spray to the car’s underside or have a professional detailer apply a coating to ensure corrosion doesn’t set in.

Desert Shield is a Phoenix auto detailing and cleaning service specializing in interior and exterior car cleaning to create the perfect finish and shine. Call us at (623) 283-2249.