Sometimes, you may notice a slight scratch or scuff on your car paint and not know where it came from. Your car’s exterior is more delicate than it seems, and these unsightly blemishes could reduce its value over time. Drive cautiously and look out for these everyday items that could damage your car’s paint.
Bird Droppings
Although bird droppings may seem like just a nuisance, their acidic content can etch into your car’s paint. Leaving the stains sitting on your car could result in permanent damage. Once you notice these droppings, quickly clean affected areas with a soft cloth and water to minimize damage.
Tree Sap
Some may want to park under trees to save their car from the harsh UV rays. While this may protect your car’s exterior from the sun, if the tree drips sap onto your finish, it can be hard to remove.
If left for too long, it may harden, discolor the paint, or weaken the integrity of the paint. Use a sap remover or rubbing alcohol with a microfiber towel to clean it off.
Gasoline Spills
Don’t let the nozzle slip at the gas station! Spilled gasoline can strip away protective wax and damage the paint beneath it. If a spill occurs, wipe it off immediately with a soft cloth and rinse the area with water.
Cleaning Products Not Made for Cars
Not every household cleaning product will keep your car’s exterior pristine. Everyday times like dish soap or glass cleaner could damage your car’s paint and strip away the wax. Always use car-specific cleaning supplies to preserve your coat and finish.
Coffee and Soda
Have you ever accidentally left a drink on top of your car and drove away? These beverages are acidic and can dull your car paint if you spill them. Keep a soft cloth and cleaner in the trunk of your car for these on-the-spot cleanups.
Automatic Car Wash Brushes
While automatic car washes are convenient, those large brushes can harbor dirt and grit that could scratch your car. Stop by a touchless car wash or wash your car yourself using nonabrasive sponges and microfiber towels.
Road Salt
If you live in colder climates, road salt may be unavoidable during winter months. Months of road salt can damage paint, leaving scratches that require a new paint job on your car to obscure them. Giving your car a quick wipe down after driving through salt-ridden streets may be your only recourse.
With its delicate surface, your car could be susceptible to damage from anything on the road. Before you pull into a parking spot or hit the open road, check the surrounding area for any of these hazards to protect your car’s exterior. Bring an extra cloth and some cleaner for those unexpected scratches and drive safely!
