3 Keys to Preserving the Car Paint on Your Used Car

Your car paint is one of the most visible aspects of your car, and you want to keep it in good condition. Damaged paint can quickly lead to rust or corrosion if water seeps into the metal underneath. Worn or damaged paint also isn’t aesthetically pleasing. We’d like to give you a few important tips on how to take care of the paint on used cars.

3 Ways To Protect Car Paint on Used Cars

Regular Washing

Dirt, mud, and other filth from the road can build up on your car and must be removed to protect your paint. Dirt can cause scratches, and surface paint damage can allow liquid from water, mud, or snow to penetrate the protective coating and damage the paint beneath. Washing your car will remove all these substances and prevent them from damaging your paint job.

Use the hosepipe to hose down your vehicle and remove most contaminants. We then advise using high-quality car soap and water to wash your car and rinse it thoroughly. Don’t use dish soap, as it can be abrasive on the paint. Dry your car with microfiber cloths or towels rather than allowing it to air dry in the sun, as this can leave streaks behind.

Use Car Wax

Your paint job consists of multiple layers, with a clear top coat that protects the paint beneath. Once your car has been washed, waxing helps to provide an additional layer of protection. Wax forms an invisible film over the paint and guards against harmful UV rays from the sun that can cause the paint to fade.

Always choose a high-quality wax, as a good wax provides longer-lasting protection and won’t damage your paint. Carefully apply the wax and gently rub it into the surface. Your car doesn’t require waxing as often as washing, but for best results, wax your car at least twice a year. The best time to do this is in spring and fall, as summer and winter conditions cause the most damage to your paint.

Park Carefully

One of the best ways to protect your paint is to reduce its exposure to sunlight and other potentially damaging situations as much as possible. Parking in a garage or under a carport provides the best protection. If they’re not available, a good car cover that allows air to circulate can help keep your paint safe.

Parking under a tree provides partial shelter from the elements but also exposes your car to bird droppings or splatter from falling fruit. Bird droppings and fruit pulp are acidic and can eat into the paint if they aren’t cleared away quickly.

If you’d like more advice on protecting your paint, contact us today at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

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