Top 7 Things That Damage Car Paint

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You may not notice it but there are many elements that damage your car’s paint. From outdoor dirt to the chemicals your car gets exposed to, the paint will soon start to experience wear and tear. Many car owners don’t notice these hazards and thus fail to prevent potential damage to their vehicle.

Although peeling car paint won’t affect your driving safety, the look of your vehicle will say a lot about your diligence as a motorist. A poor paint will also damage your car’s chassis if not fixed early on.

So what are the top things that destroy your car’s paint? Here are the common culprits:

  1.    Brake fluid

Not all brake fluid is harmful, but you should be careful when handling non-silicone based versions. These older types of brake fluid are caustic and act like paint thinner. When the paint gets exposed to it, the outer layer becomes thinner until the damage becomes more visible. You can opt for more durable car paint if exposure can’t be prevented.

  1.    Bird droppings

Never underestimate the effect of pesky birds on your car’s paint. Bird droppings are acidic and if you leave them sitting on top of your car paint for long, damage will ensue. When baked under the sun, the effect doubles. Always wipe this with a wet rag as soon as you notice any droppings.

  1.    Soda and coffee

If you like hanging out by your car and placing soda cans on the hood, you may think twice after reading this. Soda and coffee have sugars that can become sticky residues if not cleaned right away. If you leave this residue sitting on your car for a long time, it will start to corrode the paint.

  1.    Gasoline

Always pay close attention to your car whenever you’re filling your tank. Gasoline that drips out or overflow isn’t just a fire hazard, it can also damage your paint. If you do this repeatedly, there will be visible marks on the paint. It’s best to have your car waxed regularly to prevent further damage.

  1.    Ashes

In the event of a wildfire and other fire-related accidents, always wash the ashes away from your car. Letting them accumulate on your car’s surface may develop corrosive soot. When ash gets exposed to moisture like rain, the calcium and potassium content will start to damage the paint.

  1.    Salt

Living in a coastal area? Always wash and cover your car to prevent corrosion. The same goes during winter when your vehicle gets exposed to salty snow. Wax or sealant may also help here.

  1.    Shoe polish

Yes, shoe polish can also damage your car’s paint. It’s weird to think about how it gets onto your car, but it’s always good to practice caution, especially if you have a little kid in the house. The stain shoe polish can cause is difficult and sometimes impossible to remove through DIY efforts.

By knowing these potential culprits, you can now practice proactive steps to secure your car’s paint. In the event of damage, it’s best to seek the help of a professional.