Are you looking to keep your car's paint job fresh and shining?
Whether it’s a brand-new coat of paint, or an existing one that you’re trying to preserve, regular maintenance and cleaning can go a long way. Here are some tips for taking care of your car's paint job:
1. Avoid washing with harsh chemicals and household dish soaps. Harsh chemicals and even dish soap can strip away the clear coat and protective wax layer that keeps your car looking its best and protected from the sun’s UV rays. Stick to gentle, PH-balanced soaps made for washing your car. There are many brands on the market, and you can find them at your local auto parts store. One of the most overlooked steps to getting a superior result is drying your car. Consider getting a chamois cloth or car drying squeegee to remove the water and give you a spot-free finish.
2. Regularly wax your vehicle. Waxing not only protects the paint from rain, dirt, tar, bugs, and other debris but also gives it a glossy sheen that will make your car easier to wash the next time! Be careful to make sure you’ve washed your car well before you wax it and use a foam applicator to avoid creating scratches or swirl marks.
3. To keep the finish smooth and swirl free, use a high-quality car polish occasionally and before you wax. Using polish on a routine basis (once every few months) helps keep the paint in good condition by removing oxidation and minor scratches. If you are really wanting to get a deep clean, consider using a clay bar kit once a year to remove embedded dirt and grime. These are available in the car cleaning section of your auto parts store as well.
4. Use caution when working near your car’s painted surfaces. Abrasives like steel wool or sandpaper should never come near your vehicle's painted surface as these can damage the finish! It’s always a good idea to rinse your car’s paint off before you wash it, and especially if your car has been parked near any activities that create dust and debris that will scratch the finish when you wash it.
5. Avoid parking under trees whenever possible –Sunlight is often thought of as the enemy of automotive paint. But a modern paint finish like the ones applied at Mobile Magic contain UV inhibitors in the topcoat that are designed to endure the sunlight. Tree sap and leaves falling on the finish often cause more damage to the paint than anything. It is always a good idea to park your car in a garage whenever possible,but the source of shade you choose can have an impact on the longevity of your new paint finish.
With just a little bit of maintenance and care, you can ensure that your vehicle looks its best for years to come! If you have any questions about what products to use, or techniques to get the best results, just give us a call or come by Mobile Magic and we will be glad to help.
