Complete Guide to Keep Your Car Paint Shiny!

Published 7/31/2024

Hello, automotive enthusiasts! Having a car with shiny paint is a point of pride, isn’t it? But, keeping your car’s glossy requires effort and proper maintenance. This time, we’ll discuss a complete guide to keep your car paint looks brand new.

Whether you just bought a new car or have had one for a while, these tips can be applied. Let’s get started!

1. Wash Your Car Regularly

Wash your car regularly from ust, dirt, and pollution that sticked to your car can make the paint look dull. Ideally, wash your car at least once a week. Use a car-specific soap, not household detergents as they can damage the paint. Start by rinsing the entire surface of the car with clean water to remove dust and dirt.

2. Use Microfiber Cloth

When washing and drying your car, always use a microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloth is soft so it won’t leave scratches on the car surface paint. Avoid using rough cloths or sponges that can cause fine scratches.

Microfiber cloths are also effective in absorbing water, allowing the car to dry quickly without leaving water spots.

3. Avoid Direct Sunlight to Keep Your Car Paint Shiny

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can damage the car surface paint. If possible, park your car in a shaded area or use a car cover when parking outdoors. Excessive UV exposure will make the paint fades and cracks.

Additionally, if you wash your car under direct sunlight, the soap water can dry quickly and leave hard-to-remove spots.

4. Wax Your Car Regularly to Keep Car Paint Shiny

Waxing your car regularly can help protect the paint from scratches and dirt. Wax forms a protective layer over the paint which make the car’s surface becomes smoother and shinier. You can wax your car at least two to three times a year. But before waxing your car, make sure your car is clean for the best results.

5. Use Paint Protectant

Ceramic Coating

Besides wax, you can also use paint protectants like sealants or ceramic coatings. These protectants provide extra protection and can last longer than wax. Ceramic coating, for example, can protect car paint for several years with proper maintenance. Make sure you already read the usage instructions and apply correctly.

6. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals

Some chemicals, like window cleaners or stain removers, that used when maintaining car can damage the paint layer. Always use cleaning products specifically designed for cars. If you’re have doubts about the product you’re using, check the label or consult a professional.

Talking about car maintenance, it’s not just the exterior you need to focus on, but also the performance and fuel efficiency. This is where an app like FuelPro comes in handy! FuelPro is a user-friendly app that lets you easily record and analyze your car’s fuel consumption.

With FuelPro, you can keep track of how efficiently your car is running, whether you’re breaking in a new car or after making some modifications. It helps ensure your car stays fuel-efficient and performs optimally, making your car maintenance routine more comprehensive.

7. Cover Small Scratches Immediately to Keep Your Car Paint

Small scratches on car surface can develop into bigger problems if not addressed immediately. Use color that matches your car’s color when doing touch-up. Apply a small amount of paint on the scratch using a fine brush and let it dry. This will prevent corrosion and keep the car’s appearance smooth.

8. Wash the Underside of the Car

The underside of the car is often overlooked. However, this part is also exposed to dirt, mud, and road salt that can damage the paint and cause corrosion. Wash the underside of the car regularly, especially after the rainy season or driving in areas with a lot of road salt.

9. Use a Car Cover to Protect Your Car Paint

Car Cover

Use a car cover if you’re not planning to use car soon. A car cover protects from dust, dirt, UV rays, and bad weather. Make sure it fits and suits your car’s size to avoid being blown away by the wind.

10. Visit a Professional

Lastly, if you feel unsure or don’t have the time to maintain your car surface paint, visit a professional detailer. They have the equipment and expertise to keep your car paint shiny and protected.

Read more: Control Fuel Usage with An App!

Frequently Asked Questions About Keeping Car Paint

After knowing some tips about keeping car surface paint that been given above, below are some frequently asked question that related to it as an additional guidance:

How often should I wash my car?

Ideally, wash your car at least once a week to remove dust and dirt that sticks.

Can I wax my car myself?

Yes, you can wax your car by yourself by using wax products that’s available on the market. Before waxing, the car must be clean.

What is the difference between wax and ceramic coating?

Wax provides temporary protection and needs to be applied periodically, while ceramic coating offers longer-lasting protection that can last several years.

Conclusion

Maintaining your car paint to keep it shiny indeed requires time and effort, but the results are worth it. By washing regularly, using the right products, and keeping the car away from direct sunlight, you can keep your car’s appearance always glossy.

Remember, proper maintenance not only makes your car look good but also retains its resale value. Happy washing and may your car always shine!