As everyone knows, scratches, bird droppings, and tree sap can damage your vehicle’s paint. But assuming that you could avoid all those agents, does car paint fade over time all the same? Keep reading to find out.
Does Car Paint Fade Over Time?
The answer is yes. Many agents (such as the sun, dirt, and brake dust) conspire against your car’s paint, and even if you are diligent about protecting your vehicle, all those pollutants will end up taking their toll on your car’s paint, causing it to fade over time.
As we saw in a previous blog, the elements that affect automotive paint are as common as sunlight and oxygen. There’s no getting around those two things, unless you want to keep your car in a garage wrapped in plastic bubbles.
The good news is that by building some simple habits, you can slow down this process as much as possible, keeping your car looking great as years go by.
How To Prevent Car Paint From Fading
Here are three easy things you can do to keep your car’s paint from fading, or at least delay the process substantially.
- Wash your car often. Dirt and grime are coming in contact with your car all the time. By washing your car often, you get rid of those pollutants before they can inflict damage on the paint.
- Wax your car. Wax creates a protective barrier between the body of your vehicle and everything from sunlight to dust. If avoiding fading is your priority, a regular waxing regime should be at the top of your list.
- Park your car in the shade. Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage, carport, or at least in a shaded area. Consider investing in a car cover.
- Clean stains as soon as possible. The longer you let a stain sit on the body of your car, the higher the odds that it will cake onto the paint, damaging it. So make sure to get rid of any noticeable stains as soon as they catch your attention.
To learn more about automotive paint, check out our previous blogs, “What Is the Typical Car Paint Thickness?” and “Why Is My Car’s Paint Chipping Off?”
Inland Empire Autobody & Paint: The Best in Southern California
At Inland Empire Autobody & Paint Inc., we are a family-owned business specializing in collision repair, windshield care, and custom paint jobs. We have locations in Riverside and Moreno Valley, California.
Call us (951-465-7350). Contact us through our website or using our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more information about our full range of services.