Preserving and maximizing your car’s paint can help keep your car in great shape and retain its value if you plan to sell it in the future. Here are some most common elements to be aware of that can damage car paint:

1. Ash. In our region we have to worry about wildfires and the ash from them can be a threat to cars. If ashes and soot settle on the outside of a vehicle and then get exposed to moisture, from sprinklers or rain, it then causes a chemical reaction. When wet, the potassium and calcium in the ash can etch the car’s paint and leave a stain.

 

2. Dirt. Whether it’s from natural use or when you’re trying to wash and you use a dirty rag, general dirt is the enemy of a car’s exterior. Washing your car regularly is essential to keep it free from dirt. Properly rinse your car before adding soap to get the first layer of dirt off. Make sure to use only clean towels when washing your car and don’t set it on the ground in between uses. The towel can pick up dirt and tiny particles that can scratch the surface of your car. These scratches can accumulate over time and become more noticeable.

 

3. Tree Sap. A natural element that can eat away at your car paint is tree sap. Sap can eat away at your paint’s clear coat and cause staining and discoloration. When it’s hot outside, this process can be accelerated. Sap can be tricky to remove, but act sooner rather than later.

Using either rubbing alcohol or a car safe cleaning solution of your choice, wet a washcloth and set it on top of the area with the sap. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then use the cloth to very gently rub the area until the sap is gone. Repeat this process incrementally until the area is clean. When sap is on your windshield, the same process applies but avoid using windshield wipers until the sap is completely gone.

4. Bird Droppings. Bird droppings are common and almost unavoidable. Droppings can leave behind permanent damage because of their acidic content. Under the sun, droppings can harden and eat away at your paint. Act immediately when you notice droppings on your car before they dry. Using a wet towel, gently clean the area without scrubbing. Scrubbing can lead to the dropping scratching your paint. If the dropping has already hardened, use a car safe cleaner to allow it to sit for a few minutes to dissolve the dropping before wiping it away.

 

5. Bugs. Insects are a very common culprit of damaged car paint, whether you live in a bug prone area or take road trips. Similar to bird droppings, bug body fluid can be highly acidic and dissolve car paint. They can cause damage over time if left on your car much like the other items we’ve described. Remove bugs from the surface of your car right away. As previously mentioned, don’t scrub the bugs, allow the cleaner work then wipe away to avoid any further damage.

At A1 Auto Body in Lynnwood, WA we are passionate about taking the best care of vehicles possible to keep them looking and working great for many years to come. A1 Auto Body can inspect, repair, and restore the condition of your car’s exterior. Our Auto Body Shop can help you touch up and/or repair any blemishes to keep your car looking clean and new. Schedule a free estimate today!