Car paint problems are one of the most recurring issues of vehicle owners today. Unattended, these can lead to costly paint reapplication and even body repair. Thus, knowing the different types of issues and car paint problems prevention is essential for prolonging the life of your vehicle and extending your budget.
4 Car Paint Problems Prevention and Treatments
1. Paint Scratches
Scratches are the most common car paint issues. Regardless of the size or depth of the scratch, it needs to be repaired immediately to prevent rust from setting in.
Treatments – If it is a superficial scratch, repair it using an effective product such as Meguiar’s Scratch X. If it has penetrated the clear coat, buff it using 3000 grit sandpaper. If you are not sure about how to use sandpaper, take your car to a professional. As a temporary fix, you can apply a substantial amount of wax over the scratch to seal it. We advise against using duct tape to cover a scratch even temporarily because it can do more damage not only to the scratch but to the area that surrounds it.
Prevention – Make sure there is ample space before parking, and keep an eye out for vandals. Handle sharp objects like keys carefully around the paint. Stop going to automatic car washes and charity car washes (make a donation instead) because their abrasive brushes and dirty wash clothes will cause so much harm to the paint. You can protect the paint by applying glass coating because it creates a very hard protective barrier over the paint.
2. Bird Droppings and Paint Etching
Bird droppings contain high levels of uria so they are highly acidic. When these come into contact with car paint, chemical reaction occurs instantly. This causes etching.
Treatments – Wet sanding the spot followed by polishing is the standard method to treat paint etching. For a quick solution mix a tablespoon of baking soda with four cups of water and use it on the site of damage. Baking soda works to neutralize the acidity. Next rinse the car well and apply a coat of wax.
Prevention – Use a car cover, or make sure to park your car in a shade. Keep a quick spray detailer and a soft microfiber towel in the car to treat bird droppings immediately. You can also keep a spray bottle with the baking soda solution we mentioned above.
3. Sun Damage
The sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can dull the appearance of the paint and cause the paint to peel away. These exposed areas will quickly rust if not treated.
Treatments – To treat these areas the paint has to be retouched, but since this retouching may not be consistent with the rest of the paint, a full retouching will be recommended by your detailer. A treatment that is less effective but cheaper is working an abrasive rubbing compound into these areas, followed by a coat of wax and paint sealant.
Prevention – Don’t park your car directly under the harsh rays of the sun. Wash your car regularly to prevent dull spots forming. Regular polishing and waxing are also important. Glass coating is the ideal paint protection shield as all harsh ultraviolet rays will be absorbed by this layer, leaving your paint intact.
4. Car Paint Problems Prevention from Water Damage
Water damage happens to the paint because of improper drying. Minerals in water are left behind on the paint when the water evaporates, creating water spots. Acid rain is also another cause of paint damage.
Treatments – The easiest way to remove water spots is to use a clay bar that will also remove other contaminants from the paint. Buffing the spots will also remove them from the paint. Follow up with a coat of wax and/or paint sealant. Another effective treatment is using a solution of white vinegar and distilled water. Allow the solution to sit on the spots for about 10 minutes. Wash and dry your car.
Prevention – Stay away from automatic car washes because in most cases they allow you to drive away without fully drying it. Park your car away from sprinklers. Using paint protection methods such as waxing, sealing and glass coating is a very important car paint problems prevention measure.
Do you have car paint problems that need the attention of professionals? Schedule an appointment with DetailXPerts for organic solutions to these problems.
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