The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Vehicles’ Paint and Value
Protecting a vehicle’s shine and value is not only about the aesthetics; it has more to do with shielding the exterior from dust, sun, and pollution. It also entails avoiding careless washing habits that scratch the paintwork instead of cleaning the car.
The good thing is that vehicle owners can detail their cars without visiting a detailing shop. This article will run down simple things car owners can do regularly to keep their vehicle looking almost showroom-new for a long time.
Use Ceramic Car Coating
Car paint is where the most damage happens, and unfortunately, many car owners don’t know how to protect it. Car owners can invest in professional ceramic coating for cars to create a protective layer between the paintwork and external elements.
Traditional waxes and sealants tend to wear off in weeks or months, but a ceramic coating solves this problem by forming a long-lasting bond with the vehicle’s surface that does not come off easily.
The layer repels water, shields from ultraviolet rays, and prevents minor scratches that can make the car look dull over time. Ceramic coating gives any car a depth of shine that keeps the vehicle vibrant and polished for many years.
Smart Parking Habits
Another underestimated factor in keeping a car looking its best is where it is usually parked. For example, parking under trees exposes the vehicle to sap, pollen, and bird droppings.
Similarly, parking in the open under the harsh sun can fade the paint and overheat interiors. This is why car owners without a parking garage need to invest in a breathable vehicle cover.
However, car owners should avoid plastic tarps as they trap moisture and may cause scratches on the paint when it’s windy. Changing the parking spot in relation to where the sap or sun is can extend the paint life and keep the car vibrant for longer.
Don’t Forget the Undercarriage
Shiny panels are not the only indicators of effective car exterior care. Rust can begin underneath the vehicle. Water and mud gather along the chassis and beneath the wheel arches during the rainy season, creating optimal conditions for rust to develop.
Car owners who live in coastal cities like San Diego and Miami have it worse because of the salty water that accelerates rusting. As a result, the car owner should get an underbody wash at least twice every year.
Washing the Car the Right Way
A fun fact about swirl marks and fine scratches is that most of them don’t come from roads; they are caused by washing the car incorrectly. When a person uses old cotton cloths, rags, or sponges to wash the car, these materials trap dust and drag it across the paint, which inflicts damage.
That said, what is the safest method to wash a car? The two-bucket wash method or using a pressure washer. One bucket holds the shampoo water, and the other is filled with clean water for rinsing the mitt. This way, the cleaner will not rub dirt back onto the paint.
Car owners do not need to break the bank to keep their vehicles looking vibrant and protect their paintwork. It is also advisable to invest in ceramic coating, park in safe places, seek underbody care, and wash the car properly. With these tips, the car will keep its shine and value longer.