Your cars paint job is important, and you want to keep it looking good for a long time. Continuus and ongoing care of an automotive paint job means keeping it clean and giving it a good protective wax job periodically. But there are differences in the way you take care of an existing paint job and a new paint job. The following tips will help you avoid damaging your new paint job.
There may be different reasons for your car having a new paint job. Whether you just got your car back after collision repair, or you just had it painted for cosmetic reasons, there are special considerations that should be followed within the first 30 to 90 days. A new paint job needs a certain amount of time to cure. During this time the paint is vulnerable to certain elements.
Taking your car to a car wash is something that should be avoided for at least 30 days after a new paint job. Commercial car washes use stiff brushes or sponges that can scratch the delicate new finish. It’s important to keep your new paint clean so the best thing to do is hand wash it yourself. Use clean cool water, a soft cloth or sponge, and avoid using dish soap or laundry detergent. Pick a shady spot to wash your car, direct sunlight can cause problems.
You might be tempted to put a good coat of wax on your car after you wash your it, but make sure you don’t. A new paint job can be damaged by wax or polish. Wait at least 90 days before using wax or polish.
Stay out of environments where there may be gravel and excessive dirt, keep all chemicals away from the paint until it has time to cure. If you take your car to a quality body shop for paint, they will also advice you as to the proper care of your new paint job. Make sure to follow the directions given to you by your paint shop. Use common sense and you should be fine.