How Long Should You Wait to Wash Your Car After a Paint Job

Paint jobs can be so exciting – seeing your car looking brand new and clean all over again. As exciting as it is, paint jobs cost money. Therefore, you need to be careful with your newly painted ride.

So, you just got that Honda painted at a body and paint service in Penang, and you get the nod to take your new-looking car home.

Well, don't get tempted into thinking you can do as you please with your car, as you might ruin the freshly painted ride.

This blog post will show you things to avoid doing in a newly painted car to keep it fresh for a very long time.

1. Don't Leave the Paint Shop Immediately

As soon as the job is done, take your car under broad daylight to look out for defects that may need a rework. If you find any defects, like different shades of colours, it's advisable to wait until it is fully cured before you try to fix the fault.

If you drive a Honda, a professional Honda body and paint service in Penang will cover your newly-painted car to protect it from dust and other contaminants.

Covers, in this case, means an automotive wrap that allows air between the film and your vehicle's surface to protect it from the external environment.

2. Don't wash the car immediately

Yeah, you'd be surprised how many people take their freshly painted ride to a car wash. Don't do this – as fresh paints need proper curing, and you shouldn't use soap on the car until after a month (30 days).

If you must wash, take it home, and rinse with cold water, and a microfiber mitt in the shade. Avoid keeping the car in the sun for an extended period.

After washing, use a microfiber towel or chamois to wipe gently. Trust me; you don't want water marks or swirls on a shiny new finish.

3. Avoid unnecessary drives

Taking your freshly painted car for long, unnecessary rides will open up your new paint job to harsh environmental conditions before it is fully cured. It is advisable and safe to leave your car in a garage for about two months.

Only drive when necessary and during fair weather conditions. During this waiting period, you could use taxi services or use a second car if you have one. Your patience will pay off.

4. Don't wax your car

There's a general belief that waxing a newly painted automobile is harmless and will protect the paint job. A professional Honda car service in Penang will advise otherwise, as the curing process involves the paint gassing off itself.

Waxing your freshly-painted car will hinder the color from going through the gassing process. So, be patient and wait for the car to be fully cured. Wait for about sixty (60) days before waxing your car. Also, ensure you use only real carnauba wax your vehicle when ready.

5. Never leave your freshly painted car, outdoors, or under a tree

Severe and unsightly damages can come from leaving your newly painted car, outdoors, or under a tree. Tree sap, bird droppings, and acid rain can damage your new paint job.

Even dramatic changes in temperature can also affect curing and paint adhesion. During the curing period, keep your car in a garage or at least a proper shelter.

Other tips to take home:

• If oil, gasoline, antifreeze, windshield solvent, or transmission fluid accidentally spills on your car, be sure to rinse it off immediately using water. Also, don't try to wipe the area, as it may smear. If you must clean the area, do so as gently as you can.
• Don't drive through gravel roads or drive through shrubbery roads that can scratch your vehicle.
• Take your car to a certified Honda service center in Penang for a professional touch.

How Long Should You Wait to Wash Your Car After a Paint Job

Source: https://www.jmmotorservices.biz/things-avoid-newly-painted-car/

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