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  • DARCARS Kia of Lanham

Jan 20, 2023

Car paint can do more than show off the driver’s style: the outer layer of your ride is there to protect the interior steel frame, stop corrosion in its tracks, and keep the value of the vehicle high. Once you have a fresh coat, you’ll want to protect it to prolong the material’s life. Check this list out for the most useful methods of protection before visiting your Kia dealer near DC. Getting Car Washed Lanham, MD

How to Protect Your Car Paint and How Your Kia Dealer Can Help

1. Keep the Exterior Clean

Drivers encounter all sorts of dirt and debris while traveling and allowing gunk to accumulate can result in damage to the vehicle’s body. Certain natural materials are acidic, like splattered bugs, and will eat away at the car’s protective layers. Even items from the driver can create this problem, like spills from coffee or soda.

It’s critical to use the correct cleanser for your paint to ensure you don’t strip off the wax. Most home cleansers, such as dish soap, can be far too aggressive and result in the outer layer being removed. If you’re worried about cleansing incorrectly, bring the car in for a professional wash.

2. Park Cautiously

Not all parking spaces are equal when it comes to the safety of your paint job. Leaving your car at the front of the parking lot exposes the vehicle to potential dings and chips from neighboring doors, shopping carts, and other passing drivers. The process of parking can even be dangerous if the area is crowded, but thankfully that’s no challenge in the 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro with its four exterior cameras that let you see outside from every angle.

Even nature can be cause for concern when parking, since the sun’s UV rays can degrade the outer layer with enough time. Alternatively, natural fixtures like trees can drop branches and acorns onto the car’s surface. Taking the time to park away from hazards will prevent your vehicle from coming into contact with these risks.

3. Get Some Extra Defense

There are multiple protective materials to select to add additional defense to your car’s paint job. The most common substance used to save a car’s paint is wax, which will function like sunscreen on your vehicle and add additional shine. You’ll know if it’s time to reapply wax if water no longer “beads” on the vehicle’s surface.

Another popular choice would be paint sealant, which not only blocks sun rays but also keeps outside pollutants from getting through and contacting the paint. Pain sealant is also durable and long-lasting, so you can rest easy knowing that once you have it on your car, you won’t need another layer for quite some time.

Want to Learn More Car Tips & Tricks?

Our car dealership blog is your source to find out tips and tricks for all your car needs like the paint on your car, maintenance, repairs, and more. How does the paint on your car appear? Leaving your paint job exposed to the elements will eventually cause it to wear away, and once it’s gone, corrosion and value reduction are sure to begin. Come to DARCARS Lanham Kia to let our professionals treat your car’s exterior and keep your ride looking brand new.