12 Simple Mistakes That Can Ruin Car Paint Job!

The paint job of your car is very important for its look and performance. The surface is not only the first thing people will see, but it also protects your vehicle from damage. You want to take care of this surface so that you can enjoy it in the long run.

However, there are some things that you should avoid when washing or detailing your car so as not to ruin the paint job.

Things That Can Ruin Car Paint Job

If you don’t pay close attention to what you do, any of the following things can ruin your car paint job:

1. Dirt and Dust

The first thing that will ruin your paint is dirt and dust. Car washing is designed to remove these two things from your vehicle’s surface, but if you let them build up too long they will start to scratch the surface and leave permanent marks. These two elements also attract other contaminants that can cause more harm than just marring your paint’s surface.

2. Painting in Direct Sunlight

Painting a car in direct sunlight can ruin the job. The heat is bad for the paint and will make it bubble up and peel off. You should avoid painting your vehicle during hot summer days or when it’s parked in full sun to prevent this from happening. People often do this mistake when they are fixing a tiny portion with a spray paint can which eventually causes more damage than good.

3. Using Harsh Cleaning Products

You could damage your car’s paint job by using too harsh cleaning products such as those containing acid or lye, which will eat away at the clear coat. You don’t have to use expensive products, but make sure the one you choose is gentle enough for your car’s finish.

4. Using Dirty Rags or Paper Towels

To avoid scratching the surface of your vehicle, it is best to use microfiber cloths or towels when washing or detailing it. If you don’t have these cloths at home, any lint-free towel will do the trick.

5. Not Washing Your Car Often Enough

The more often you wash your car, the more you can avoid dirt and dust that damage its paint job. If your busy schedule makes it hard for you to take out some time for washing, you can at least use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the surface of your vehicle.

6. Using Cheap Hose Nozzles

You want to avoid using cheap nozzle hoses when washing your car with a hose because these sprayers release high-pressure water that could cause water spots on your car’s surface. The pressure will depend on your water pressure so it is best to look for a hose nozzle that comes with various settings.

7. Using Too Much Pressure when Washing or Detailing

If you don’t want to scratch your car’s paint, avoid washing it with too much pressure or power. If you are using an electric polisher, do not go beyond 2000 RPM. Make sure that the polisher is clean of any dirt before you use it.

8. Not Washing a Dirty Vehicle

If you have to wash away dried mud from your vehicle, make sure that all the dirt and dust is cleaned first before you start washing or detailing it. You should also avoid using a pressure washer on a dirty car as this could cause damage instead of preventing it.

9. Leaving Your Vehicle Unattended in Direct Sunlight

Aside from sun damage, leaving your car unattended in direct sunlight can cause fading and other paint problems for your vehicle because heat will make the paint harden faster which means more prone to scratches and dents. Always keep your car parked under a shade when not being used.

10. Using a Towel with Rough Edges

Just like sandpaper, a towel that is not smooth enough will rub the paint off your car and make it look dull or dirty. You should always use microfiber towels on your vehicle to avoid this kind of damage. If you don’t have these towels at home, buy them from a store near you.

11. Not Conditioning Paint Surfaces before Applying Wax

When the wax is applied on top of untreated surfaces, it will wear out easily and start coming off within just a few weeks—if not days!

So before applying any form of wax on your car’s surface, make sure that the previous layer has been properly conditioned so it can bond well with the next coat of wax or paint protection.

12. Applying Wax or Paint Protection Products in Hot Weather

Just like leaving your car out in the sun, applying wax or paint protection products in hot weather will make it wear off easily and cause fading because of its high temperature.

When using these products under such conditions, make sure to do it when the sun goes down to avoid damage and go for a professional job if you don’t know how to do it yourself.

Conclusion

Be sure to keep your car clean and safe with these tips. You might be surprised at how much gunk can accumulate on the paint over time! 

To take care of all that dirt, you need a few tools for detailing. Some people prefer using waterless wash products, but others swear by good old-fashioned soap and water.

If soap isn’t getting it done or if there are stubborn spots that refuse to come off, consider buying some specialty cleaners like clay bar lubricant or tar remover.

The last thing you want is an unexpected scratch from something as simple as opening up your garage door – so make sure to use gloves when cleaning around things in the exterior environment where dust could have settled onto the surface of your vehicle