4 Ways to Keep Your Car’s Paint Looking Like New
Whether you’ve had your car for a month or seven years, maintenance is important. Your car’s paint job is the first thing people see, and you want it to look good. So what are the best steps to take to keep your car looking glossy and new? We’ve compiled a list of some things you’ll want to stay on top of.
Wash your car
- It’s easy to fall into the rhythm of life and forget to do regular things, like washing your car. Experts actually warn that we should stay away from drive-through washes because the brushes might scratch your paint. DIY washing and waxing is the way to go.Wash your car at least once every 2-4 weeks, either with a quality soap (to protect the finish and avoid streaks and water spots) or with microfiber cloths and hot water. Depending on how dirty your car is looking, you’ll probably want to rinse it off before taking any products to it. If you don’t wash your car regularly, dirt and dust can become embedded in the paint.
Pro tip:
If you find that there are still bumps or stubborn, bonded fragments that cause your car’s paint to feel gritty after you’ve washed it, use a clay bar to remove them. This will prepare your car for a coat of wax, which you can purchase in either carnauba or polymer form.
Remove bird droppings ASAP
For every clean car, there’s a bird ready to strike. It’s a pain, but it’s unavoidable. Remember to remove bird droppings as soon as you can or they’ll leave a mark on your car’s finish. Consider keeping a microfiber cloth and some spray detailer in your trunk so you can easily clean up the mess (and remove dust when you need to).
If it doesn’t budge easily, don’t scratch at it. Apply water or spray, and after a few minutes gently work at it with your cloth.
Park in the Shade
The sun’s rays can wreak havoc on your car. With too much exposure, your car’s paint, rubber, and plastic trim will fade, crack, or peel. Believe us, we speak from experience! Obviously, there’s not always going to be a conveniently located tree or garage, but try to park in a shaded area when possible. Again, waxing your car is essential to protecting the paint from harsh UV rays.
Scratches
Got a new scratch on your car? Don’t panic just yet. While you may be able to use waxes or rubbing compounds to take care of superficial scratches, it’s always better to consult a professional. Many scratches are too deep and will require a professional paint touch-up. Click here to learn more about the benefits of a professional paint job.
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