Whether you realize it or not, there are sun-faded cars all around you. Some think it’s inevitable–when you own a car for a long period of time, the sun is going to eventually fade the paint surface.
More often than not, your car’s paint fading isn’t as much about the color degrading as it is about the clear coat on the paint surface deteriorating over time. The paint sealant breaking down can make it look like you have sun-faded car paint.
In this blog post, Tucson’s auto painting experts tell you why car paint fades and how to properly repair it.
Why a Car’s Paint Matters
Typically, the paint sealant protects your car’s paint job from the harsh UV rays that can destroy the paint pigments.
Despite knowing all of this, you may be thinking, “it doesn’t matter, this paint job is too expensive to repair anyways.” But this isn’t always the case.
Why Your Car Paint Fades
Your car paint is most likely fading due to the deterioration of a paint sealant or a weak layer of protection that doesn’t hold up. One of the main reasons your car’s experiencing paint damage could be the sun.
Paint fading from the sun is caused by infrared radiation. Heat from the sun catches on the car’s flat surfaces (hood, roof). When your car is constantly subjected to the sun, the clear coat deteriorates over time, leaving bare paint exposed to UV damage.
You can prevent this damage with a proper sealant. If you’re already dealing with sun-faded car paint and looking for a solution, review the tips below.
How To Repair Sun-Faded Car Paint
First, determine what kind of paint job your car has. Is it single-stage paint or dual-stage paint? Determining this will help you know what paint to get for repairs. Then it’s time to figure out if your car has a clear coat or not. If your car does NOT have a clear coat, your best option would be to get it repainted by a professional instead of taking on the task yourself. If your car does have a clear coat, this makes it easier to repair the sun fade on your own. All you need is a few supplies, including:
- A car buffing compound
- An electric machine buffer
- Polishing pads
- Microfiber buffing pads
- Car cleaning materials
- A type of clear paint protection
- A bucket of clean water
Once you have all of these supplies gathered, you’ll want to start off by washing the car thoroughly. Once it’s clean, it’s time to start buffing. As you use the buffing compound on the troubled area, the sun-faded car paint should begin to improve.
Once you’re satisfied with the looks, add a layer of paint protection and you’re good to go!
For Professional Car Painting and Restoration, Call Cutting Edge Collision Center
If you want expert help on types of auto paint or repairing sun-faded car paint, turn to us here at Cutting Edge Collision Center in Tucson, AZ. Call us at 520-339-6901 or contact us online to get your free virtual estimate today!