Car paint not only provides a glossy appearance but also plays a crucial role in protecting the vehicle from environmental impacts. Few people know that an average car can go through up to four different layers of paint to ensure durability and aesthetics. Classic cars and those with rare colors often have a higher resale value compared to modern vehicles.
There are also many other interesting and surprising facts about automotive paint that you might not know yet. Let’s explore them with PWP Solution in the article below!
Car paint is not just about aesthetic - it also holds many fascinating facts that not every car owner pays attention to. Below are some interesting things you should know about automotive paint.
Regular car washing helps clean off dirt and dust, keeping the vehicle not only clean but also running smoothly. Ideally, you should wash your car once a week, or immediately after heavy use or exposure to dirt to prevent grime from sticking.
However, washing your car too frequently or using excessive force during scrubbing can damage the paint surface and cause scratches. Additionally, using a pressure washer too close to the surface or with too much force can damage and break down the paint layer’s structure.
The paint quality directly influences a car’s value. A newer, shinier, and cleaner paint job makes the car appear more valuable than one with faded or dull paint. Repainting can fix scratches or discoloration and significantly improve the car’s resale value.
Environmental factors such as sunlight, extreme temperatures, sudden weather changes, bird droppings, acid rain, and hail contain harmful elements that can damage the surface paint layer.
Although UV rays are invisible, they can cause significant damage to the paint structure. Regular exposure to sunlight without protective covering can lead to paint peeling or molecular breakdown.
Since car paint is constantly exposed to external forces, vehicle owners must pay close attention to maintenance in order to preserve its durability. Here are some helpful tips:
Washing helps remove dust and reduce component corrosion. However, keep these points in mind:
Never wash a hot car: Washing immediately after use can cause soap to stick to the hot surface, leading to chemical buildup and paint damage over time.
Use proper car-cleaning solutions: Avoid dish soap or laundry detergent, as they are too harsh and can strip the protective coating from your car.
Be careful when using a pressure washer: Avoid using high-pressure settings too close to the paint surface, as this may damage it.
Use a proper microfiber cloth: Avoid using any rough cloths that may scratch the surface or leave swirl marks on the body.
Limit polishing and abrasive waxes: While polishing gives your car a shiny, new look, excessive use can wear down the paint layer. Many commercial polishes contain abrasive compounds that can erode the paint over time.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure: Parking outdoors in harsh weather like rain or strong sun can damage the entire vehicle, not just the paint. Additionally, you can't control external elements like mischievous children or bird droppings.
Use shaded areas or car covers: This helps not only to protect the paint but also to keep the car cooler and prevent internal damage
When refreshing your car’s paint, consider the following:
Use low-abrasion polish: Many polishes contain abrasives that can wear down the clear coat after repeated use.
Be cautious with wax: While wax protects the surface better than polish, long-term use can still affect the paint layer and create surface imperfections if not applied properly.
Car paint not only gives your vehicle a glossy finish but also plays an essential role in protecting it from corrosion and environmental damage. Few people know that modern automotive paint can even self-heal minor scratches thanks to advanced coating technology. Color also affects interior temperature—lighter-colored cars stay cooler due to better heat reflection. However, car owners need to have a basic understanding of automotive paint to make informed maintenance and repair decisions. At PWP Solution, we specialize in providing high-quality paint line systems that enhance production efficiency and product longevity for your business.