News & Advice

After painting a car, there are several precautions to take to ensure the paint cures properly and maintains its finish over time.

Here’s a list of what not to do after painting a car to avoid damaging the new paint job…

1. Avoid Washing the Car Immediately – Do not wash your car for at least the first two weeks after painting. Water can interfere with the curing process of the paint. When you do wash it for the first time, use a mild, automotive-specific soap and ensure that the water pressure is not too high.
2. Do Not Wax Too Soon – Wait at least one to two months before applying wax or any sealants to the new paint. Waxing too soon can prevent the paint from curing properly and may lead to a dull finish.
3. Keep Away from Extreme Conditions – Avoid exposing the new paint to extreme sunlight, heat, or cold for the first few weeks. Extreme temperatures can cause the paint to cure improperly, leading to discoloration, cracking, or peeling.
4. Avoid Rough Roads or Gravel – Try to avoid driving on rough roads or gravel shortly after painting. Flying debris and stones can easily chip the new paint before it has fully hardened.
5. Don’t Cover the Car Immediately – If you’re thinking of using a car cover, wait at least a month before doing so. The paint needs ample time to cure, and covering the car too soon can lead to condensation, which might damage the paint. The cover might stick to the paint or leave marks if the paint hasn’t fully cured.
6. Limit Mechanical Work – Try to limit any mechanical work on the car that requires bending, scraping, or leaning against the painted surfaces. Tools and belts can easily scratch or mar the new paint.
7. Be Mindful of Tree Sap and Bird Droppings – These can be especially harmful to new paint. If any contaminants like tree sap or bird droppings get on the paint, gently clean them off as soon as possible with a mild cleaner designed for automotive paint.
8. Avoid Automatic Car Washes – For the first few months, it’s best to avoid automatic car washes. The brushes and strong chemicals can damage the new paint. Hand washing is the safest option.
9. Do Not Apply Stickers or Decals – Wait several months before applying any form of stickers or decals to the new paint. The adhesive can react with the paint, and removing them later might cause damage.
10. Inspect Regularly – Keep an eye on the paint for any signs of issues such as bubbling, peeling, or discoloration. Early detection can help address any problems before they become more serious.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your car’s new paint job cures correctly and remains in excellent condition for years to come.