Your vehicle enables you to do so many things! It helps get you to and from various destinations. It also gives you the independence to come and go as you please. But over time, years of use can start to wear on its exterior features, such as its paint. When the paint is in bad shape, it can spell trouble for the longevity and appearance of your car. That’s why it’s essential to know when your vehicle is signaling that it’s time to take it in for a much-needed paint update.
The Color Is Fading
It’s no secret that vehicles take on wear over time. After all, they’re the first line of defense against flying dirt and debris. Not to mention, your paint job is subject to constant exposure to the elements. Things like UV damage, dirt, and grime can cause the color of your paint to fade. Thus, when you start to notice the color on your vehicle fading, you should take it as a sure sign that your car’s paint needs an update.
There Are Scratches or Dents
Scratches and dents should rank high on the list if you’re looking for another reason to have your paint re-done. These seemingly minor imperfections can cause more significant issues if you leave them unaddressed. If you can’t buff out the damages, they can cause peeling and even accelerated rusting.
You’ll have to take your vehicle to a body shop to have work done, especially if the cuts or dents are deep. Of course, taking your car in to get it fixed up is only half the battle. You also need to secure some long-term protection for your vehicle. For this reason, modifications like ceramic coatings are well worth the investment. They can ensure your paint job remains protected from minor imperfections and the host of other issues it can potentially experience.
The Paint Is Peeling
Peeling is another one of the sure signs that your car’s paint needs an update—and it’s hard to ignore. When auto paint has outlived its usefulness, it will start to exhibit the following:
- Peeling or chipping
- Bubbling
- Discoloration
All these things point to your exterior needing a serious makeover. They indicate that the clear coat that protects your paint from these very things has become completely stripped away.
Furthermore, these types of issues mean that your color-coating is no longer intact, which is about as bad as it gets. So don’t ignore these problems when you see them. Take your vehicle into the auto salon as soon as you’re able.
The Coating Is Lackluster
In a similar vein, a lackluster coating can be a significant indicator that your vehicle is due for a new paint job. Under normal circumstances, your car’s exterior features should have a certain level of gloss or luster to them. In other words, your paint coating should always be shiny.
And it doesn’t matter whether you’re driving around a brand-new Mercedes or a used vehicle. Granted, sometimes, all your vehicle needs is a good waxing to get back its signature glisten. But suppose that no amount of wax or polish can do the trick. If so, it typically means that the clear protective coating on your paint has worn away entirely, and it’s time to take the vehicle in to have it repainted.
