Any longtime resident will tell you that Los Angeles is not easy on a car—from the hot weather to immense traffic, it’s hard to keep a vehicle looking new. With its scorching temperatures, summer can be ruthless on a car’s exterior as ultraviolet rays are one of the everyday things that damage a vehicle’s paint job.
That’s why we’ve put together a helpful list of tips on protecting a car’s paint job in the summer for drivers. Make sure your vehicle doesn’t lose its luster this summer!
Wash Regularly
Typically, the most straightforward advice is the best. If you want your car to retain its shine for longer, you’ll have to put some effort into it by regularly washing it by hand.
Pro Tip: Use special car-wash soap to wash your vehicle instead of dishwasher soap as it contains harmful chemicals that can strip the paint.
In the summer, try to wash the car in the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are more relaxed, and in the shade, if you can. And, when you’re done, dry your vehicle by hand with a microfiber cloth or chamois as it’s easier on the paint job.
Wax On
After getting your car clean and shiny, please give it a layer of protection with a wax coating. Carnauba paste wax is typically the best for protecting your vehicle’s paint at an affordable price.
Pro Tip: Wax your car at least every three months, and possibly more often in sunny and hot locales such as LA.
Wax doesn’t just make your car shine like new—it offers a layer of protection against UV rays, dust, dirt, and anything else that can damage the paint.
Stay in the Shade
The best way to protect your car’s paint from fading due to UV rays is to keep it covered and in the shade as much as possible. Always park your vehicle in a garage, a covered parking lot, or beneath a barrier providing shade.
Pro Tip: Avoid parking directly under a tree for shade, as they’re magnets for tree sap and bird droppings.
If you don’t own a garage and can’t afford to park in a paid covered parking space every day, consider investing in a car cover. They’re affordable and effective in keeping the sun and dust off your car’s immaculate paint job!
Invest in Paint Protection
The most effective way to preserve the sheen and luster of your vehicle’s sparkling paint job is to invest in heavy-duty protection such as paint protection film or a ceramic coating. They’re more expensive than the typical wax, but they also last longer and offer better protection than carnauba paste.
It’s not easy to keep a vehicle looking pristine during LA summers, but if you follow our tips for protecting your car’s paint job, your car will look as good as new for years!
