What’s the Best Paint Protection for My Car?
October 5th, 2020 by Fix Auto USA
It can be tough to identify the best car paint protection. But, car owners who understand the different types of paint protection are well-equipped to determine which option best suits their vehicle.
Auto Paint Protection Options
Popular auto paint protection options include:
1. Wax
Wax helps protect car paint against dirt and grime. A coat of wax typically delivers results that last up to four months, and results vary based on the amount of time a car is exposed to the elements, how frequently the vehicle is washed, and the type of wax used.
Unfortunately, wax does not offer car paint protection coating against chemicals, scratches, and scuff marks. Wax can also be easily removed with a detergent.
2. Sealant
A sealant is a synthetic product that simultaneously protects car paint and improves its gloss. It bonds to a paint surface and provides results that generally last anywhere from three to six months.
A sealant’s effectiveness depends on how often a car is washed, the chemicals used in the product, and other factors. A sealant can be beneficial for car owners who want to protect their vehicle’s paint against sap, chemicals, and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Like wax, a sealant can be removed with a detergent.
3. Ceramic Coat
A ceramic coat consists of a liquid polymer applied to a car’s exterior. It tends to deliver results that range from two to four years.
With a ceramic coat, car paint is protected against sap, salt, chemicals, and UV rays. Furthermore, a ceramic coat won’t wash off as easily as wax or a sealant.
4. Clear Paint Protective Film
Clear paint protective film, also referred to as plastic film, consists of thermoplastic urethane. It offers a great option to protect car paint against rock chips and minor abrasions. Conversely, clear paint protective film is not intended for use across an entire car.
Which Paint Protection Option Is Right for Your Car?
Many car paint protection options are available, and each has its pros and cons. To determine which auto paint protection is right for your car, there are several factors you need to consider, such as:
- Where You Park Your Car: If you regularly park your car under trees, you should consider options to protect your vehicle’s paint against birds, acorns, and other natural debris. Or, if you frequently park your car in a garage, you may be able to forgo paint protection.
- Your Daily Commute: Paint protection is a terrific option for car owners who commute long distances every day, as it helps safeguard a vehicle’s paint against bugs, rocks, and other road debris.
- Your Car Maintenance Schedule: Along with paint protection, you should develop and implement a car maintenance schedule that includes cleanings and polishing performed by automotive professionals.
If you were recently involved in a car accident, it is a good time to invest in paint protection, too. The protection for your car’s new paint can only benefit it moving forward. Looking for a reliable collision repair center? Find the closet Fix Auto location and schedule an appointment using our simple online tool!
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto East Los Angeles, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing east LA.
