Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to keep your car clean, the paint doesn’t look new anymore. This can be due to several reasons, including exposure to the elements, accidental scratches, or age.
Whether you’re driving a brand-new car or on the road for years, there’s no denying that a fresh coat of paint can do wonders. Not only will it make your car look great, but it can also protect it from the elements and keep it in top condition for years to come.
Why Does Car Paint Fade?
One of the main reasons why car paint fades is because of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Just like the UV rays from the sun can cause our skin to tan or burn, they can also break down the molecules in car paint, causing it to fade. This process is accelerated by hot temperatures, so you’ll often see more fading on cars parked in direct sunlight.
Another contributing factor to fading is exposure to chemicals from the environment and from cleaners used on the car. Chemicals like road salt and tree sap can cause the paint to break down and fade, while harsh cleaners can strip away the protective wax coating that helps prevent fading.
When to have a paint job
Often, car owners will wait until their car’s paint is severely faded or damaged before taking it in for a new paint job. However, it’s best to have your vehicle painted before it reaches this point.
Not only will it be cheaper to have the work done sooner, but your car will also look better in the long run. But how do you know when it’s time for a new paint job? Here are 4 common signs:
- The existing paint is faded or chipped- If your car’s paint is starting to fade or chip, it’s time for a new paint job. Not only will this help your car look better, but it will also protect it from further damage down the road.
- You want to change the color of your car- Sometimes, you get tired of how your car looks. If you’re ready for a change, a new paint job is a perfect way to do it. Whether you want a completely different color or just a new shade of the same color, a new paint job can give your car an entirely new look.
- The current paint is peeling- If the existing paint on your car is peeling or flaking off, it’s time for a change. Peeling paint not only looks terrible, but it can also lead to further damage if not addressed promptly.
- You’ve been in an accident- If you’ve been in an accident, even if the damage isn’t visible, it’s always best to have your car professionally inspected before getting a new paint job. This is because there could be hidden damage that needs to be repaired before painting over it.
How Can I Prevent My Car Paint from Fading?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to completely prevent your car paint from fading over time. However, there are some things you can do to slow down the process and keep your paint looking fresh for longer. For example, you can:
- Have your car professionally detailed by your trusted auto body shop. This will not only make it look amazing but will also help extend the life of the paint job.
- Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can speed up the fading process.
- Wax your car regularly to create a barrier between the paint and the sun’s UV rays.
- Park in a garage or under a carport whenever possible to minimize exposure to direct sunlight.
- Invest in a good quality UV protection film for your windows (this will also help keep your interior cool and comfortable on hot days).
Should I Get My Car Repainted If It Starts to Fade?
If you notice that your car’s paint is starting to fade, you may be tempted to have it repainted. However, this isn’t always necessary (and it can be pretty expensive). In many cases, you can achieve satisfactory results by simply having your car professionally detailed regularly. This will remove any build-up of dirt or debris that could be accelerating the fading process, and it will also help protect the paint from further damage.
Final thoughts
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for any car – old or new. Not only will it make your car look great, but it can also protect it from the elements and keep it in top condition for years to come. If you’re wondering whether or not your car needs a new paint job, watch out for these 4 common signs: fading or chipping paint, peeling paint, hidden damage after an accident, wanting to change the color of your car, or planning to sell your car soon. If you see any of these signs, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for an inspection and quote!