How to Get Rid of Sun Damage on Car

The ravages of the sun can take a toll on your car’s exterior, leading to faded paint, a lackluster finish, and even cracking. However, you can rejuvenate your car’s appearance by following several steps to mitigate this sun damage. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you restore your vehicle’s shine.

Step 1: Wash Your Car

Begin by thoroughly washing your car. This removes surface dirt and grime, allowing you to see the extent of the damage more clearly.

– Rinse your car with water to remove loose dirt.
– Use a car wash shampoo and a microfiber cloth or sponge to gently cleanse your vehicle, working from top to bottom.
– Rinse the car off once again and dry it with a clean, soft towel to prevent water spots from forming.

Step 2: Assess the Damage

Examine your car’s exterior carefully. Sun damage can manifest as faded or discolored patches, oxidation which gives paint a chalky appearance, or clear coat peeling.

Step 3: Use a Clay Bar

A clay bar helps remove bonded contaminants, providing a smooth canvas for further repairs.

– Flatten the clay bar to fit in your hand comfortably.
– Spray a clay lubricant or soapy water on a section of your car’s surface.
– Slide the clay bar over the wet area until it feels smooth.
– Wipe the area with a microfiber towel and repeat around the entire car.

Step 4: Polish the Affected Areas

Polishing helps to level out the surface and reduce the appearance of sun damage.

– Use a quality polishing compound.
– Apply the polish to a foam applicator or polishing machine.
– Work the polish into the paint with circular motions, focusing on the affected areas.
– Use a soft microfiber towel to remove excess polish.

Step 5: Apply Wax or Sealant

This step protects your car’s newly restored finish and adds a layer of defense against further sun damage.

– Select a high-quality wax or paint sealant.
– Apply a thin layer to the car’s surface using a foam applicator or machine.
– Allow the wax or sealant to haze over as per the product instructions.
– Buff off the haze with a clean microfiber towel until you achieve a shiny finish.

Step 6: Use a Paint Restorer (If Necessary)

If polishing does not restore the damaged areas adequately, you may need a more abrasive solution like a paint restorer.

– Apply the paint restorer carefully according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Work the restorer into the affected areas with an applicator pad or machine.
– Buff the area to a shine with a microfiber cloth.

Step 7: Consider a Paint Job for Severe Damage

If the sun damage is extensive and these steps do not yield the desired result, it might be time to consider a professional paint job.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips that can help prevent and treat sun damage:

– Park in the shade whenever possible or use a car cover to protect the paint.
– Regularly maintaining the wax or sealant layer can significantly reduce the amount of sun damage that occurs over time.
– Always work on your car in a shaded area when performing any of these restoration steps to prevent the products from drying out too quickly in the sun.

By following this plan, you can significantly improve your car’s appearance and protect it from further sun damage. Regular maintenance combined with protective measures will keep your car looking its best year-round.