Keep Your Color Bright: Identifying and Avoiding the 4 Most Common Causes of Fading Car Paint
The appearance of your car is as important as its performance and it is useful to understand the four most common causes of fading car paint color so that you can avoid them in the future.
The first and most easily recognisable cause of car paint fading is direct sunlight. Even when the sun doesn’t appear to be that bright, the ultraviolet rays can still remain powerful and can cause the paint to fade. Because the sun’s rays degrade the finish of the paintwork, it can be left exposed and susceptible to damage and fading to the color. Wherever possible, avoid parking the car in direct sunlight and store the car within an enclosed garage or covered port if you have the facility.
The second cause of car paint fading is salt in the air particularly if you live near the sea. Salt in the air is not only noticeable on your car surfaces but, if left untreated and allowed to remain on the surface of the paintwork, can result in oxidization. This leads to the paint fading and in some cases, it peels or rusts the surface beneath it. You can reduce this by cleaning and waxing your car regularly and by using a wax specifically designed for car surfaces.
The third and most overlooked cause of car paint fading is using the wrong solutions and tools to clean the car. Not all cloths and cleaning materials are suitable for cars and scouring pads and more abrasive cloths should be avoided completely. When you choose a cleaning solution, ensure that it is specifically manufactured for the purpose of cleaning cars and avoid any products that contain an array of chemicals. Waxing the car regularly can also help to reduce the need for regular and heavy cleaning.
The fourth cause of car paint fading is contaminants in the atmosphere. This type of damage is difficult to see, however, if you locate a faded portion of the car and are unable to identify any other factors then it may be from airborne contaminants. Consider your surroundings and especially areas in which the car is stored, including any factories or traffic levels in the area, if there is a significant amount.
It is crucial to be aware of all of the most common causes of car paint fading to ensure your car’s paintwork remains in the best condition. Avoid parking the car in direct sunlight, keep the car clean and waxed regularly, use a salt prevention wax if you live near the sea, and be aware of nearby traffic levels and factories that may be contributing to contaminants in the air.
