Our cars are more than just a means of transportation. They’re a reflection of our personality, style, and sometimes even our identity. That’s why it’s so frustrating when the paint on our cars becomes damaged, whether it’s from a fender bender, a hailstorm, or even just normal wear and tear. Fortunately, there are great options to touch up a car paint job, from applying a little rubbing alcohol to visiting an auto paint shop: but it’s best to prevent paint damage before it starts. Here are some of the top offenders that can ruin a paint job.
Sunlight
While we all love a sunny day, too much sunlight can wreak havoc on your car’s paint. Exposure to UV rays will cause your paint to fade, crack, and peel. In addition, heat can cause the clear coat to break down, leaving your paint vulnerable to damage.
To prevent damage from sunlight, try to park your car in the shade whenever possible. If you don’t have access to a covered area, consider investing in a car cover to protect your paint from the sun’s harmful rays. If your car’s paint has already been sun-damaged, you may need professional car paint repair.
Bird Droppings
As unsightly as they are, bird droppings are more than just an eyesore. The acidic nature of bird droppings eats away at your car’s paint, causing irreparable damage if left unchecked.
If you notice bird droppings on your car, don’t wait to clean it up. Use a gentle car wash solution and a microfiber cloth to carefully remove the droppings. Avoid using abrasive materials or scrubbing too hard, as this can cause further damage.
Tree Sap
If you park your car under a tree, you may be surprised to notice sticky bits of sap on it. Even worse, tree sap can cause significant damage to your car’s paint. The sticky substance can be difficult to remove and can even etch the paint if left untreated.
To remove tree sap, use a dedicated sap remover or rubbing alcohol. Apply the solution to a clean microfiber cloth and gently rub the affected area until the sap is removed.
Scratches and Chips
Even the most careful drivers can’t always avoid scratches and chips to their car’s paint. Whether it’s from a stray shopping cart or a rock on the highway, scratches and chips can quickly ruin the appearance of your car.
If the scratch or chip is small, you may be able to fix it yourself with touch-up paint. However, for larger or more noticeable damage, it’s best to take your car to an auto body shop for professional paint scratch repair. Their experienced technicians can repair the damage and restore your car’s paint to its former glory.
While everything from sunlight and bird droppings to scratches and chips can mar your car’s beautiful paint job, there are things you can do to prevent it. Some damage can be repaired with a little elbow grease and some DIY know-how, but as stated earlier, it’s often best to leave it to the professionals. If your car’s paint has been damaged, schedule an appointment W&L Collision Center for expert repair and restoration that will leave it shining like new again.
