Over time, the paint on your car can begin to fade and lose its shine and vibrance. Unfortunately, even durable types of car paint can fade, chip, peel, and wear down over time due to environmental stressors.
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Whether your car’s paint has major or minor fading, it’s important to know what causes auto paint to fade, how to fix it and get it back to its original condition, and ways to prevent fading in the future. Keep reading to learn about common causes and proven fixes.
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The paint on your car isn’t invincible and can start to lose its shine and pigment over time. Fading can be caused or exacerbated by a number of environmental factors.
Common causes for auto paint fading include:
- Sunlight: When your car is exposed to direct sunlight, harsh UV rays begin to break down paint and cause it to oxidize; over time, this can cause paint to discolour and fade.
- Road salt: Typically used to melt snow in colder months, rock salt is corrosive, meaning it can slowly eat through your paint over time.
- Bird poop/pee: These substances are highly acidic, making them harmful to car paint if they’re not washed off immediately, thoroughly, and properly.
- Certain types of paint: Some paints, especially those traditionally used to paint older types of cars, are more susceptible to fading over time.
- Improper care and washing: Not properly washing or waxing your car or the use of harsh and abrasive chemicals can cause debris to build up and scratch your paint.
How to prevent Faded Car Paint
When it comes to preserving your car’s paint, prevention is key. Taking steps to care for your vehicle’s finish now can save you from costly repairs in the future. Plus, if you ever plan on selling your car or trading it in, you’ll be able to preserve its value and visual appeal.
- Park in a Covered Area
Whenever possible, it’s best to park in a covered area. As mentioned, the sun’s rays can be incredibly damaging to a car’s paint, so finding covered parking, whether it’s in a carport, garage or even under a tree is always a good idea. If you do park under a tree, just be sure to watch out for bird droppings, as they can damage your paint.
2. Wash Your Car Regularly
Sticking to a regular wash schedule is one of the best things you can do to protect your car’s paint from the sun and environmental damage. Car owners who do not wash their vehicle on a regular basis will not only have a dirty vehicle, but they are likely to accumulate micro dirt, which becomes embedded in the car’s finish.
Every few weeks, run your car through the car wash or wash it yourself. If you do decide to take the DIY route, be sure to use the right products—never simply grab a rag and dish soap from the kitchen!
Instead, use a gentle cleanser specifically designed for automotive paint and either a soft sponge or mitt. When cleaning the wheels and tires, use a separate sponge to avoid transferring any brake dust, sand and other debris to your car’s surface, which can scratch it.
3. Wax Your Car After Washing
Waxing is a great way to add another layer of protection to your vehicle’s paint. Plus, it will make your vehicle look beautiful and shiny when applied after a wash.
There are a variety of different waxes to choose from, such as paste, liquid, spray and wipe-on/wipe-off. No matter which formula you choose, always be sure to closely follow the directions for applying.
Waxing your car every three months or so will help to extend the longevity of your paint, especially if you live in a cold climate. However, remember to not overdo it, as this can cause build-up on your car’s surface.
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