Auto Paint Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts from your Local Portland, Oregon Auto Paint Repair Specialist

Here are some tips for maintaining your auto paint job and prolonging the life of your vehicle:

Rinse the car first and only use a wet cloth when wiping dirt from the car

Don’t use dry cloth on a dry car; this will cause small scratches as you drag dirt across the paint.

Wax the car immediately after washing to provide a protective shield for the paint.

Don’t wash or wax your car after it’s been sitting in the hot sun or you will end up with streaks and stains on the paint surface.

Use only products like car shampoos, wax and polishes that are designed for use on your car.

Don’t use laundry detergents or harsh soaps to wash your car as they will only remove the protective wax and damage the paint.

Only use non-abrasive liquid polishes specifically designed for your car’s finish. Avoid silicone-based wax as it penetrates all layers of paint.

Don’t use polishing or rubbing compounds on paints with a clear acrylic coating or it will become dull.

Use rubbing compounds only when needed; when the paint surface has become dull.

Don’t use abrasive cleaners and compounds that can remove the paint and primer and expose bare metal.

If you use a car cover choose one that is made of natural fibers that breathe like cotton.

Don’t use vinyl or plastic car covers, especially in humid conditions as they trap moisture that causes mold and corrosion.

Park in a garage or in the shade as much as possible

Parking in the hot sun for a long period of time will cause the paint to fade or blister.

Repair scratches as soon as possible

Don’t neglect these repairs as the exposed metal will begin to rust when exposed to water and salt.

Prolong your auto paint job by washing your car monthly and waxing it quarterly. Always use products that are specifically designed for your car; do not substitute car shampoo with laundry soap or other products. Follow manufacturer’s instructions. Only use rubbing compound when necessary and choose products with very mild abrasives.

These tips are provided by Willie Fisher, owner of Collision on Wheels, a mobile auto body shop that provides minor collision repair, auto paint repair, dent repair, scratch repair, doors, fenders and bumpers for consumers and businesses in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington and Yamhill Counties, Portland, Beaverton, Gresham, Hillsboro, Canby, Damascus, Gladstone, King City, Lake Oswego, Lake Grove, Milwaukie, Newberg, Oregon City, Parkrose, Sherwood, Tigard, Troutdale, Tualatin, West Linn, Wilsonville, Aloha, Beavercreek, Clackamas, Dunthorpe, Garden Home, Raleigh Hills, West Slope and neighboring cities and communities