Summer driving around South Wales can be tough on your car’s paintwork. Sunlight, tree sap, insects, dust and bird droppings can all leave marks if they’re allowed to sit on the surface for too long.
The good news is that a little regular maintenance can go a long way towards protecting your paint and keeping your car looking its best.
Why Summer Can Damage Your Paintwork
Your car’s clear coat provides an important protective barrier, but it isn’t invincible.
UV exposure can gradually contribute to fading and deterioration, while contaminants such as tree sap and insect remains can stick firmly to the surface.
Don’t leave bug splatter on the paint
Bug remains might look harmless, but they’re best removed as soon as practical. As they dry and remain exposed to sunlight, their acidic compounds can contribute to staining and etching of the clear coat.
After a long drive, particularly along country roads, give the front bumper, bonnet, mirrors and windscreen a careful clean.
Avoid aggressively scrubbing dried-on insects. Soaking the area first helps loosen the contamination without unnecessarily scratching the paint.
Be Careful Where You Park
Parking underneath trees can provide welcome shade on a sunny day, but it can also leave your car covered in sap, pollen and bird droppings.
If you’ve parked near Parc Golwg yr Aman, for example, check your vehicle afterwards for sticky deposits or droppings before they have time to bake onto the paintwork.
Bird droppings are another contaminant worth removing quickly. If you regularly commute towards Swansea Marina, your car may be exposed to plenty of airborne grime as well as bird activity.
Wash, Wax and Protect
Regular washing removes contaminants before they have an opportunity to cause lasting damage.
For best results:
- Rinse loose dirt from the vehicle first.
- Use a suitable car shampoo rather than household washing-up liquid.
- Wash using a clean microfibre mitt.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry with a suitable microfibre towel.
- Apply a wax or paint sealant for additional protection.
Don’t forget the less obvious areas. Door shuts, wheel arches and lower body panels can collect considerable amounts of dirt during summer driving.
When Should You Consider Professional Detailing?
If your paintwork has already developed stubborn stains, embedded contamination or a dull appearance, professional detailing may be worthwhile.
A proper clean and paint-protection treatment can help restore the appearance of the vehicle while providing an additional protective layer.
If you’d like your car looking its best after the summer, speak to Brooke’s Auto Repair about available valeting and detailing services.
A little attention now can help your paintwork cope with the months of rain, road grime and changing weather ahead.
