If you've lived in Florida for a while, you've probably realized that the sun here is INTENSE. It can do a lot of damage to anything left in its path, and that includes your Orlando Toyota. One area you'll really notice the sun takings its toll is on your car's paint, in the form of car paint oxidization.
What is car paint oxidization? Basically, it's when the sun leeches the oil out of the paint on your vehicle, making it dull, rough, and eventually, colorless. The good news? It's preventable. Here are some quick tips on how to stave off the sun and prevent this type of paint damage:
Park under cover. A garage is ideal, of course, but any type of shade or covering can help prevent car paint oxidization. Even some trees that overhang your spot and provide shade are better than nothing.
Buy a car cover. If you literally have nowhere covered to park, consider investing in a car cover. This will protect your ride from ALL of the elements when it's sitting in the driveway.
Wax routinely. Apply a coat of quality wax every other month or so. Wax helps fend off the sun (as well as moisture), resulting in a longer-lasting paint job.
But what if it's too late and the damage has been done? Unfortunately, car paint oxidization is pretty permanent, and if your car doesn't have a clear coat, there's nothing you can do to remedy it. But if your car does, you're in luck - we've got tips from the experts at our Orlando Toyota Collision Center on how to make your car look a little less worse for the wear.
Get the right supplies. To try to lessen the effects of car paint oxidization, you'll need car wash soap, a sponge, microfiber towels, an electric buffer, rubbing compound, automotive tape, car polish, and a quality car wax. Shop for all of the above at the Toyota of Orlando parts store!
Next, wash your car thoroughly and dry it with the microfiber cloths. Try to find a shady place to park - the sun doesn't play well with car polish and car wax.
Tape off the chrome and plastic around the area where you'll be working to avoid getting anything on them.
Next, apply rubbing compound to the affected area and use the electric buffer. You'll want to use the slowest speed and the softest pad. If you don't notice a difference after a while, you should switch to a more abrasive pad or a higher speed.
Once that's done, wipe away leftover compound and apply car polish in the same manner with the electric buffer.
Finally, remove the excess car polish and apply two coats of quality wax to your car.
If all that DIY work doesn't do the trick, it's time to visit Toyota of Orlando's Collision Center. Our expert techs will give you a free estimate on car paint repairs and can get your car looking like-new in no time! Call us today at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.
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