Blog Post

How To Protect Your Car’s Paint in the Summer

  • By River North Collision Repair
  • •
  • 11 Aug, 2022
  • •
How To Protect Your Car’s Paint in the Summer

With the summer comes outdoor grilling, watersports, and beach days. But the summer can also be harsh on your vehicle’s exterior. Learn how to protect your car’s paint in the summer so that it doesn’t fade prematurely!

Stay in the Shade

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are exceptionally damaging to a car’s paint if exposed for prolonged periods. So, to keep your vehicle’s exterior looking new and vibrant, stay in the shade as much as possible during the summer.

Always park in the garage or a covered stall when possible, or at least somewhere that provides some shade. If you don’t have a garage or can’t afford covered parking, consider investing in an affordable but practical car cover to keep the UV rays off your car’s paint.

Pro Tip: Large trees provide shade, but they’re also hotbeds for bird leavings and tree sap. They’re typically best avoided.

Handwash Frequently

Cleaning your car does more than make it look pretty—it removes harmful contaminants from your vehicle’s exterior like mud, dust, pollen, bugs, and bird droppings. The longer these things linger on your car, the more embedded they can become to the paint and cause more damage.

A drive-through carwash may be convenient, but their tough and coarse bristles can be rough on a paint job. Wash your car by hand frequently and dry it with a chamois or microfiber cloth to preserve your vehicle’s exterior.

Wax On

Car wax isn’t just about making your vehicle shine like new—it’s also about adding a protective layer to the exterior that keeps dust, bugs, and UV rays off the paint. A layer of wax is like a clear-coated shield for your vehicle’s exterior.

You can find car wax at practically any auto paint shop. Most any wax will do the trick, but carnauba is the preferred wax for most collectors. You should wax your vehicle every three months to protect the paint and ensure it gleams like new.

Add Protective Film

If you want to go the extra mile, you can invest in a paint protective film (PPF). PPF is similar to heavy-duty wax—it’ll make your vehicle’s paint gleam while adding a robust layer of protection to the exterior.

It’s more costly than typical wax, but you only have to add PPF once a year, and there’s no denying the protection and the results it offers.

Now you know how to protect your car’s paint in the summer! If you’re ready to give your vehicle a new paint job, consult with the paint experts at River North Collision Repair.

The Top 4 Benefits of Paintless Dent Repair

By River North Collision Repair • February 17, 2025
If you’re looking for a body repair solution for your car, find out how a paintless dent repair can buff out those imperfections without ruining the paint.

Choosing the Right Auto Accident Repair Shop

By River North Collision Repair • January 29, 2025
Look for the right auto accident repair shop that will fit your budget and maintenance needs if your car suffered external damage after a collision.

How You Can Extend the Life of Your Car’s Paint

By River North Collision Repair • January 27, 2025
Routine maintenance on your car can keep your paint pristine no matter how often you drive. Drive in style with these washing and waxing tips.

How Paintless Dent Repair Can Help After a Hailstorm

By River North Collision Repair • January 8, 2025
Find out how paintless dent repair, with its cost-effective and quick services, could be a great solution for fixing your car after a hailstorm.

The Importance of Car Bumper Repair After a Minor Accident

By River North Collision Repair • January 7, 2025
Should you schedule car bumper repair? Find out how even a minor accident can affect the structure of your vehicle by learning about bumper damage.

What To Do if Your Car’s Paint Is Damaged by Street Salt

By River North Collision Repair • December 9, 2024
Street salt prevents slippery roads, but it could also corrode car paint. Rinse off and prevent street salt from chipping your exterior with these tips.

How Chicago’s Colder Weather Can Impact Your Car

By Tony Mers • December 2, 2024
Is Chicago’s cold weather dangerous for driving? Find out how to avoid costly repairs this winter by monitoring your car for these signs of damage.

5 Reasons You Shouldn’t DIY Car Dent Repair

By Tony Mers • November 4, 2024
Put down those tools. Learn why DIY dent repairs are ill-advised and when to contact a specialist to prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Damaged Bumper?

By River North Collision Repair • October 28, 2024
After an accident, your car’s bumper could have absorbed a lot of impact. Determine if the damage on your car needs repairs or if you need a bumper replacement.

Common Misconceptions About Car Paint Jobs

By River North Collision Repair • October 9, 2024

Many people believe that paint jobs for your car can do more harm than good. While paint jobs can be a costly investment, it’s because they’re performed by specialists who work with precision and care to ensure long-lasting benefits.

Showcase your car in style with a fresh new coat of paint that protects and glistens. Don’t feel discouraged by rumors; instead, learn more about the common misconceptions about car paint jobs.

All Car Paints Are the Same

Car paint jobs differ based on the vehicle and the car owner’s preferences. Owners can choose from a selection of paints that offer varying levels of durability, gloss, and protection. Communicate with a restoration specialist about what kind of paint job you're looking for, and they’ll provide you with the coat you need.

Newer Cars Don't Need Paint Protection

When car owners purchase a new car, they may believe their vehicle is safe from damage for several years. However, new cars are also susceptible to UV rays, bird droppings, and road debris. A protective coat or wax could keep your car looking just as new as when you first received it.

Paint Chips Are Just a Cosmetic Issue

Another common misconception about car paint jobs is that paint chipping won’t cause long-term damage to the car’s structure. However, these chips expose your car to the elements, which may lead your vehicle to experience rust and corrosion from moisture. Protect the integrity of your car and touch up on your paint before it leads to costly repairs.

All Paint Colors Fade at the Same Rate

Different colors fade at various rates depending on their hue and tone. Darker shades like reds and blacks absorb more UV rays, which makes them more susceptible to damage. If you’re looking for a paint job that meets your long-term expectations, consider visiting local auto paint shops  that offer lighter colors.

Custom Paint Jobs Are Always Expensive

Custom paint job pricing depends on the complexity of the design and the materials used to conduct the job. These selections offer a variety of choices for you to plan out a budget for your custom paint job. Look for styles that highlight your preferences without breaking the bank.

Debunk these myths by reaching out to your local body shop specialists. Our restoration specialists at River North provide a pristine look to your car with an extra layer of security. Schedule a car paint job appointment to start driving in style.

Show More
Share by: