No paint job is perfect and even the best paint jobs will at some point have issues. Some of these problems can be inevitable but there are others that can be prevented and taken care of.
Most auto paint jobs have a clearcoat, and when that clearcoat begins to peal or begins to delaminate there can be several reasons for that. This issue can occur when incompatible paint products are used during a repair, or from exposure to the sun and elements. The best way to prevent delamination is to always park your car in a garage or shaded area.
There is another problem that is like delamination and it is when a paint begins to peel. Auto paint is protected by a layer of clear coat, so it takes considerable wear or damage for it to peel. Most often, it’s caused by a poor paint job or prolonged exposure to the sun. Dings and damage to the clear coat that exposes the underlying paint can also cause peeling. To prevent it, protect your car from the elements and have any finish damage repaired right away.
Many parts of a cars body can be susceptible to rust, including its paint job. When moisture works its way into chipped areas in the paint, oxidation can cause rust. Having auto body repairs performed at a shop that doesn’t use seam sealer or body cavity wax can cause rust problems too. To keep rust at bay, wash and wax the car often, park it out of the weather, and only use a reputable auto body shop for repairs.
Another common problem with auto paint jobs is fading. As a car ages, the finish can start to look dull and faded. The UV rays of the sun are usually to blame, but debris and pollution are contributing factors as well. Regular washing and diligent waxing are critical to prevent fading, but it’s also vital to avoid parking in the sun as much as possible.
Keep a close eye out for these problems and you should be OK.