Sunlight is dynamic. It keeps us warm, allows plants to grow, and can even be converted into electricity. Unfortunately, sunlight has an equally harmful side. As a result, the ultraviolet rays in sunlight, also known as UV rays, can burn unprotected skin. But did you know that UV rays can damage the paint on your car or truck, too? Allow the DCH Millburn Audi team to explain the havoc that the summer sun can wreak on your paint job, and also provide tips to prevent such adverse effects.
During the warm weather seasons, exposure to UV rays actually breaks down the molecules that give your vehicle’s paint its color and shine. Though modern automobile paint includes additives to resist these effects, the paint’s effectiveness only lasts for a limited time period. So, when a car spends much of its life entrenched in sunlight, its paint will gradually fade and become dull.
While sunlight is harmful, temperature can be a problem, as well. When a car sits out in the fierce midday sun, it gets hot and its body panels expand. Such expansion causes the paint to contract at a microscopic level, which may ultimately crack your car’s paint. Over time, the gradual effects of the sun’s heat diminish your car’s gleaming showroom finish.
As the sun is ubiquitous, it may seem as though sun damage is inescapable. However, it is possible to extend the life of your car’s paint job by following these tips.
Seek shade
Whenever possible, keep your ride out of sunlight. Park in a covered garage or use a car cover for an immediate solution. You may also park your car under the shade of a tree for a short period of time, but it is important to remember that tree sap and bird droppings can also damage your paint finish.
Wax
Modern vehicles are finished with a layer of “clear coat” over the actual paint color. This gives the paint its deep gloss and helps protect the pigment from UV rays, however it doesn’t last forever. Regular waxing provides additional protection for your car, filling in cracks that form as a result of sunlight exposure.
A simple way to see if your car needs waxing is by performing the water beading test. To perform this test, drip water onto your paint. If the water forms beads on the paint surface, your car is perfectly waxed. However, if the water spreads on the paint surface, your car is in need of a new wax job.
Have more questions? Contact the DCH Millburn Audi service department.
