With the arrival of warmer weather, you may spend more time driving and parking your car outside. However, the intense ultraviolet (UV) rays and road debris can damage your auto paint without the proper precautions, requiring you to fix the fading and imperfections. If you want to ensure the paint looks beautiful for many years, here are several strategies.

How Can You Avoid Paint Damage?

1. Wash the Car

The easiest way to prevent issues with your auto paint is by removing any debris that sticks to the exterior. To do this, start by parking in a shady location so that the vehicle doesn't dry too quickly. Use warm water, a specialized cleanser, and a microfiber cloth or sponge to wash the car. Avoid household soaps, as these can damage the finish. Wash the vehicle from the top to the bottom, and pay special attention to any sticky substances, such as bird droppings and road tar. Use a soft towel to dry the vehicle to avoid water spots and mineral deposits.

2. Wax Properly

Once the vehicle is dry, apply wax to the exterior thoroughly to protect the auto paint. Doing this by hand ensures you reach every section of the vehicle, as a buffing machine may miss certain spots. The wax coating creates a barrier that prevents tar, debris, and grease from contacting the exterior directly. It also repels water and deflects UV rays, helping prevent rusting and fading.

3. Use Covered Parking

Whenever possible, park in a garage or covered area. These spots help protect your vehicle's exterior from damage during summer storms, and they will even leave the interior cooler when you return. When parking outside for a long period is unavoidable, consider using a fabric cover to shield the vehicle. While mature trees provide shade, they may excrete sap or host birds that can relieve themselves on your car, potentially damaging the auto paint.

Whether your car needs a minor touchup or full coat of paint, contact Jack Hart Body Shop in Radcliff, KY. These skilled technicians have more than 50 years of experience serving residents throughout Elizabethtown and Ft. Knox. They use the latest techniques to give your car a beautiful finish that lasts. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (270) 351-3637 to schedule an appointment.