The paint on your car is the one thing that gets noticed right away while driving through your neighborhood. But, as time goes by, your vehicle will get exposed to the elements, road debris and possibly be in an accident.
It may be prudent to invest in some extra protection to help it last longer.
Your 7 Top Options to Protect Your Vehicle’s Paint Job
Below are some ideas for protecting your vehicle paint job:
Car Cover
Car covers are good to use if you don’t have a garage or other enclosure for your vehicle. Depending on the climate in your area, the car cover type you need can vary. In some regions, you need water-resistant covers, and in others, you should use something to protect your car from sun or humidity. The quality of the cover is affected by what you are willing to spend on one.
Also, when you aren’t using it, you have to put the cover away – preferably out of the weather. Exposure to the elements can cause it to deteriorate faster and not provide a reliable level of protection for your paint job.
Paste or Liquid Wax
Paste or liquid wax is another popular extra layer of protection for vehicles worldwide. The options to choose from may seem endless and complicated to differentiate since the primary difference is one is liquid while the other is wax. However, the primary factors that set these products apart are how they get applied to your car’s surface and the labor involved.
Many car owners prefer the liquid form because they can use an orbital polisher to apply it, whereas paste will require manual buffing.
Clear Paint Protection Film (PPF)
The conditions of the area you live in will determine if you will need a transparent paint protection film applied to your vehicle.
This product doesn’t cover the entire vehicle. It only needs to be applied to the body panels vulnerable to the most damage. PPF is an investment, but it is worth protecting your car in the long run. Speak with an experienced auto shop offering paint protection film in Charlotte, NC, to determine if it’s a good option for your car.
Sealant
Sealant is a great product to protect your vehicle from the sun, excessive heat, and acid rain. When applied, it also enhances the shine on your car, but plan on going to the dealer or auto shop to have it applied. This step ensures the application is flawless and bonds to your car’s paint to provide maximum protection for at least three to six months. Many drivers prefer sealants over waxes for this reason.
Detailing Spray
Detail spray gets applied at the end of detailing a vehicle. It mainly helps with water rings and dirt or dust attached to the car’s surface. The detail spray will also prevent scratches from wiping off debris or other substances on the vehicle. However, it’s probably one of the least durable protective options on this list. But, something is better than nothing.
Car Wraps
Wraps are another way of protecting your vehicle. The wraps apply directly to the paint and can usually come off late without damaging the paint. Plus, you won’t need to wrap your entire car or truck because you only cover what needs additional protection – such as the hood, fender, bumper, or mirrors.
Another benefit of using a wrap is it eliminates the need for waxing and clear coating. Instead, a simple everyday wash with soap and water will do the trick. Car wraps are also customizable for advertising your business or giving your vehicle a new look.
Ceramic Spray Coating
Ceramic spray coating is, of course, applied in a spray bottle form. This layer protects against road debris damaging your vehicle while cruising through town. The longevity of the application and the level of shine it adds to your current paint job are definite factors to consider.
A ceramic coating should go on after washing the car. Also, make sure to use it only in designated areas and then rinse it off. Apply this layer in one section at a time and rinse immediately. The downside is the application can be challenging because you risk having streaks or spots appear if too thick in some areas and it doesn’t set quickly enough.
To ensure you get the best results, have a professional apply it to your vehicle’s paint.
Which Car Paint Protection Option is Best?
Car paint has come a long way since the first Ford Model T rolled off the production line. However, despite better durability and fade resistance, it’s still important to take extra steps to protect your vehicle’s color from the elements to ensure a longer-lasting shine for years to come.
When choosing the proper protection for your car’s paint job, many variables are involved, including:
- Your area;
- How much you drive;
- Parking arrangements;
- Climate.
When making this decision, the best thing to do is speak with an experienced automotive shop that offers paint protection services. They can answer all your questions and recommend what is best for your vehicle.
