Living in Central Florida we're all well aware that the sun is STRONG. It can take a toll on your car in a lot of ways over the years, but one of the biggest issues we've noticed from sun exposure at our Clermont Toyota service center is car paint oxidization. Our techs are here to explain what this common problem is and how to prevent it.
What is car paint oxidization?
Car paint oxidization is when the intensity of the sun causes your car's paint to lose its oil content over time. This can lead to a dull, rough finish and as time progresses, it can cause the color to actually leech from the paint. And unfortunately, the damage is pretty permanent and in some cases (like when there's no clear coat), irreversible.
Luckily, you can prevent car paint damage from happening. You should try to park your car under cover whenever possible - a garage is best, but any sort of covered parking or shade can be helpful in fending off the sun. In fact, even parking under trees for shade is better than nothing. If you have no covered parking options, consider investing in a car cover for your ride to help ward off the sun's rays. Additionally, apply a coat or two of quality wax regularly. The wax helps to prevent the UV rays from reaching the paint and can keep your car paint looking like new.
But what if it's too late and the damage is done? Before you think you have to schedule an entire car paint job at our Clermont Body Shop, check out these quick steps to take to try a little DIY repair on your own.
- Get your tools. To attempt to fix or reduce car paint oxidization, you'll need a car sponge and automotive soap, a few microfiber towels, an electric buffer with pads, car rubbing compound, car polish, car wax, and automotive tape.
- Next, thoroughly wash your car. Once you're done, dry it and park it in the shade - parking a wet car in the sun can lead to waterspots on the paint, and car wax doesn't do well in direct sunlight. Once it's dry, tape off the area that you're going to be working in.
- Apply a little bit of rubbing compound to the area that has car paint oxidization damage. Use the electric buffer to work it into the paint, going slowly and using the lowest setting. Don't put too much pressure on it. If it doesn't seem to be making a difference, swap out the pad you're using for a more heavy-duty one or try a slightly higher speed.
- Next, repeat the above process with car polish.
- Finally, apply two coats of quality wax, which you can purchase at our Clermont Toyota parts store.
Schedule car repairs at the Toyota of Clermont body shop
If it doesn't look the way you want it to (and it may not), then call the Toyota of Clermont body shop. Our techs can repaint your car and get it looking like-new again! We're open and waiting for your call at (352) 404-7001. Stop by and see us at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike.
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