Your vehicle’s paint serves two purposes: to make it look nice as well as to protect the body from rust and oxidation. Unfortunately, car paint is not indestructible; it can chip, peel, or fade over time due to a variety of factors. Whether you’re a repair technician or simply a car owner needing to take care of your vehicle, it’s important to understand what causes paint fading and how to avoid it.
The paint on your vehicle should last between 10 and 15 years if it is maintained properly. The condition of the paint on a car’s body can be adversely impacted by a wide variety of different elements over time. A lack of proper care, exposure to direct sunlight, and certain types of paint are all major factors that decide how well your car’s paint will last.
Most Common Causes of Paint Fade
The most common cause of car paint fading is exposure to sunlight. The sun’s harsh UV rays can cause car paint to oxidize, affecting the pigment and causing the paint to break down. After years of constant exposure to the sun, the paint will eventually become dull, rough, and flake off in patches in extreme cases.
There are typically two types of paint used for cars. Urethane paint is commonly used on modern vehicles. Because of its high ability to reflect ultraviolet rays, this type of paint has become useful and typically has a life expectancy of 15 years. The other type of paint used is acrylic lacquer paint which was used on cars before 1960. These bright colors and a high gloss make this paint attractive, but they begin to fade and crack after 5 to 10 years in direct sunlight. Show car owners and hobbyists who want to learn how to restore their vehicles still use this paint because of its ease of use and low toxicity.
Call Friendship Paint & Body Today!
If your car has an old paint job that’s looking rough, call us today! We’ll get your car looking pristine again. Don’t wait! Let our mechanics bring your car back to how it used to be.
Proper Maintenance For Vehicles
Improper care is the last deciding factor for why your car’s paint will fade. To avoid fading, the best course of action is to take preventative measures. In the long run, this will require effort from you, but it will be well worth it. Friendship Paint & Body recommends parking in areas that are not exposed to direct sunlight.
- When you have to leave your car for an extended period of time, such as at work, try to do so in a garage or in an area with tree cover.
- When your car is getting washed, make sure to use a sponge and warm water, or take your vehicle to the car wash when needed.
- By waxing your car three to six times a year, the paint will have a clear coating and not be exposed to the harsh UV rays.
By following these tips for proper vehicle care, your car will be looking as good as the day you bought it.
We Restore Your Car’s Paint!
The good news is that most faded paint can be partially restored, depending on the extent of the damage and the overall condition of your car’s paint. Having your car buffed by a professional can help restore the color. It’s time to buff your car’s paint if polishing and cleaning haven’t brought it back to life. Buffing works by removing the microscopic scratches and filling them in with a glaze to achieve the best shine. Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more!
Choose Friendship Paint & Body Shop if you’re looking for high-quality auto body and paint services in the Stone Mountain or Snellville areas. We can provide a full auto body and paint service for your vehicle. We can do everything from custom auto body paint to color matching for your damaged vehicle. When you need your car’s paint redone, let Friendship Paint & Body handle all of your vehicle needs. For more information give us a call at (770) 978-9099.
