Many factors come into play when it comes to automobiles. However, one thing that is always constant throughout the automobile industry is the physical appearance of the car. It is thus very important to know some of the best ways to protect new car paint.
Despite the car having the best engine around or it being the most fuel-efficient automobile in the industry, the aesthetic design plays a major role in the impression it leaves. That said, car paint is a key element in the cosmetic appearance of an automobile.
A newly-painted car will always look classier and more appealing to your friends, colleagues or even potential customers (if you are selling). On the other hand, when the car paint looks chipped or scratched, it can largely reduce the overall appearance of the car and will have a major effect on the value of the automobile.
Best Ways to Protect New Car Paint
Car paint can be very delicate, and even small scratches or writings from fingers can damage the painted surface. If you are looking for simple remedies on how to protect your new car paint from scratches, you are in the right place. Here are some tips on some the best ways to protect new car paint.
1. Wash your car on a regular basis
Most of the scratches and chips on the surface are often caused by dirt particles such as sand, dust, mud and other debris that may stick on the surface of the vehicle as you travel.
A good example of this is when you go for an off-road trip. Your car will be exposed to sand particles, mud, and even thickets and bushes depending with the terrain and the route that you decide to use.
It is always recommended to wash your car at least after every trip using an effective car wash soap and shampoo like this one. If you are not in a position to do a thorough cleaning, try wiping the exterior with a soft cloth to wipe off the dust.
2. Refrain from writing or scratching the car with your finger or any object
The easiest and best way to protect new car paint is to avoid ruining it in the first place. A newly-painted car can be quite appealing, and this might tempt you to run your fingers all over it to feel the softness of the surface.
This is quite a challenge especially in an environment where there are kids playing around. Most children are attracted to shiny objects – and a newly painted car happens to be one of them.
This sounds like a subtle gesture but very effective as a new car paint protection method. The negative effects of dragging your fingers across the painted surface of your car can be maximized especially when dirt particles are present.
Look at it this way, when you run your fingers across your painted car surface, your hand will act as a sand paper and the dirt particles will scratch the painted surface.
3. Use a car paint sealant
Applying a layer of paint sealant is one of the best ways to protect new car paint. This works by providing an extra layer of protection over the painted surface. Minimizing the exposure of the paint helps in preventing and minimizing the occurrence of scratches and chips.
The best part about this is that you only need to apply the paint sealant only once or twice a year. Therefore, this is a long-term remedy on how to protect your car paint from scratches.
Remember to include a bonding agent when mixing the paint sealant. The recommended ratio is one tablespoon of the bonding agent for every half cup of the paint sealant.
You can then top up the total volume according to the size of the automobile to be painted. However, it is important to maintain that ratio when mixing.
When applying the mixture on the car, do it in smaller sections and use circular motions. Once you notice a change in the texture, rub over it with a soft towel circular motions but moving in the same direction.
You may also read our other guide: Car colors to avoid for safety and prevent accidents
4. Wax the painted surface to increase the shine
A shiny or glossy look always increase the aesthetic appeal of an automobile. One way of achieving and maintaining this look is via waxing.
It is recommended to use the best car wax on the following day after painting. The frequency of waxing depends on several factors. For example, liquid or spray wax can be applied on a monthly or weekly basis.
Through personal experience, I noted that paste wax usually lasts longer, and thus does not need frequent reapplications like the liquid and the spray versions. A car will always be exposed to factors such as bird droppings, sap from trees, road grime, and other materials that are toxic and corrosive to the painted surface.
Waxing the painted surface provides an extra layer of protection that prevents such agents from penetrating and cutting through the painted car surface. In return, this prevents potential damage that could be caused such as scratches and chips that could ruin the aesthetic appearance of a car.
5. Consider using synthetic coating
If you do not want to invest in a high-quality paint waxing, a synthetic coating is a good alternative. A good example of this is the ceramic paint protection which effectively offers a paint protection film.
To apply a synthetic coating, simply apply a polymer or a ceramic coating over the painted surface. The major advantage of a synthetic coating is that it prevents or minimizes the chances of particles and other things sticking to the painted surface and cutting through the paint resulting to scratches or a chipped surface. It is possible to find some tutorials on how to apply ceramic paint protection.
Bonus Car Paint Protection Tips
Best Ways to Protect Car Paint From Sun
Most people probably do not know that the sun can be quite damaging to car paint. It can cause cracks on the paint and even cause fading of the paint over time depending on some factors such as the paint used. Here are some of the best tips on how to protect car paint from sun and heat.
How to protect your car appearance from the sun
To protect your car interior from direct sunlight, always park under a shade when possible. This will protect your dashboard from cracking up due to dryness.
Additionally, open a small crack in the windows to prevent heat buildup in the interior. However, do this only in safe places to avoid getting robbed. Invest in high quality seat covers to protect the seats from scratches and also help cool down the car.
Maintain a clean dashboard by regularly wiping it down with a microfiber cloth to remove the dust and other dirt particles. A glossy finish is also good in adding an extra layer of protection. However, use a low-gloss finish to reduce glare. You can spray a quality protectant spray to maintain an elegant look.
Invest in a high-quality windshield sun protector to help maintain cool temperatures in your interior and also prevent heat damage. Even though some may find them complicated, using them is as easy as unfolding them and sliding them into place on the car dash.
Finally, if your car has leather seats, you can help reduce cracks and tears from heat damage by using a leather conditioner regularly.
How to protect your car exterior from the sun
As previously stated, exposure to direct sunlight for longer periods can cause cracks and fading of painted surfaces. Frequently washing the car will prevent drying and wipe away dirt particles that could cause scratches and chips on the painted surfaces.
Adding a layer of wax on the painted surfaces is also useful in protecting it from the ultraviolet rays of the sun that can be damaging to car paint. Finally, check the tire pressure on a regular basis since hot pavements and underinflated tires can lead to a blowout. Ensure to maintain the tire pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
Under the hood protection from heat
Protect your engine from overheating by checking out the belts and changing them as needed, and ensure that the coolant or antifreeze is not drained. Take care of your engine as recommended by the manufacturers.
Keep checking your fluid level on a regular basis since most times overheating results when the fluid levels fall below the recommended levels. Such fluids include the coolant liquid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, motor oil, and the power steering fluid.
Top up the fluids frequently to maintain the levels recommended by the manufacturer. Regular maintenance of the battery can prevent high temperatures and the wear and tear. Therefore, get your battery checked out by a professional mechanic.
Maintain efficient air conditioning within the interior of the car by maintaining the recommended levels of the refrigerant in the air conditioning system.
Final Words
We can say that it is not possible to totally prevent car paint from damage, it is possible to elongate its lifespan by utilizing the simple best ways to protect new car paint we listed above.
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