Car paintwork plays an important role in protecting your vehicle. Not only there to look good, match your new shoes or send a message to other drivers about your personality – although we think these are important too – paint is also there to protect your vehicle from rusting.
Richard Green, SAMBRA’s national director, explains that it is quite easy to damage the paintwork of a vehicle and that it is worth paying particular attention to the materials you use to clean your car, to keep it looking shiny and new. Here are some tips how to do this.
1
DO rinse your car to get rid of dirt particles before you start cleaning and always clean with a soft, clean cloth or sponge.
DON’T clean your car with dirty rags. The dirt will stick to the paint and scratch it as you clean, causing hairline scratches all over the bodywork.
2
DO try to wipe bird poop off before it dries with a clean, wet cloth and a dedicated carwash product. Also, avoid rubbing the spot because seed particles in bird poop can scratch the surface.
DON’T let bird poop dry on your car as it contains several acidic components which can stain the surface.
Acid in bird poop can permanently damage your paint so it important to remove it carefully, as soon as possible.
3
DO stay away from construction sites. If your car gets cement on it, try to remove it when it is still wet. The cement, falling rocks and dust can ruin the paint and cause damage.
DON’T remove dry cement with a sharp object is just asking for trouble. Rather approach an accredited SAMBRA professional.
4
DO wax your car several times a year after you have had it washed. This will make it easier to clean spills, such as petrol without damaging your car.
DON’T allow petrol to be spilt on your car when filling up. It can discolour the paintwork and leave permanent stains.
5
DO wash your car often if you live at the coast and wax it several times a year to build up a protective layer for the paintwork.
DON’T forget the damaging effect the salty air of coastal regions can have on your paintwork. Salt makes your vehicle more susceptible to rust and speeds up corrosion.
6
DO always use cleaning product specifically designed for cars. Remember that not all car cleaning products are all-purpose. The wrong product could
damage the paint, clear coat or other finishes.
DON’T take the easy route and wash your car with dishwashing liquid which, will remove the thin protective wax layer built up by regular waxing. It
is very harsh on paintwork and not very kind to rubber either, so rather stay clear.
Finally, Green suggests seeking the advice of a SAMBRA accredited professional about paintwork care and helping to restore your vehicle’s paint job to its former glory!
Article adapted from an original written for SAMBRA by Cath Findley PR.
