Auto Body Repair Tips: How to Prevent Car Paint from Fading

There’s nothing like cruising along in your shiny new car, flashing that fresh, flawless paint finish. Over time, however, your vehicle’s paint can fade, thanks to sunlight, bird droppings, salt, and grit and grime.

On Line Collision is specializing in vehicle refinishing and auto body repair in Langley, we often get asked about the best ways to prevent car paint from fading. Without further ado, here are our top tips to keep your pride and joy looking like new for many years to come.

Shelter your car from the sun

Ultraviolet (UV) rays can be your car paint’s worst enemy, breaking down the pigments as your car ages. Park your vehicle in a garage or under shade, away from direct sunlight. Keep in mind, however, parking under trees can expose your car to sap, dropping fruit, or nasty bird business. If you don’t have access to a garage, consider investing in a car cover.

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Wash your vehicle regularly

Another step you can take to protect your pigments is to wash your car frequently. Regularly washing your car will prevent dirt, grime, and bird droppings from penetrating and damaging the paint job. Take it from a leading auto body repair team in Langley, weekly washes help keep your car’s paint looking its best for a long time.

Hand dry your car

Think letting your car air dry after a wash is good idea? Think again. Truth is, water spots can leave behind minerals, causing paint to fade. Instead of allowing your car to dry naturally, use clean cotton rags or a microfiber towel to absorb excess water.

 

Wax your car

When it comes to that extra level of paint protection, a little wax TLC can go a long way. Waxing your car is an effective way to keep your paint and finish in great condition. A good coat of wax every six months will add a protective layer, helping to protect your car from the elements, birds, scratches, dust, road salt, and other harmful debris.

 

Stay away from products with abrasives

To prevent scratches and paint fading, it’s important to use car products that are free of abrasive materials. Also, make sure cloths, sponges, and brushes are clean before wiping down your car. Dirt and stones buried in wiping materials can cause chipping, scratching, and other damage to your paint. If your finish is ruined, you may have to bring your vehicle in for auto body repair in Langley.   

So, there you have it—five fast tips to protect your car’s paint from fading. But if your paint finish is too far gone to save on your own, you’ll probably want to take your car in for a paint pick-me-up at an auto body repair shop in Langley.

 

For all your vehicle refinishing needs, drop by On Line Collision today!

 

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