Life in Hawaii certainly has its benefits — splendid weather year-round, ample ocean activities, and scenic, eye-catching views. On the other hand, a seaside lifestyle isn’t easy on your car, with salty ocean air leading to a rusty, outdated appearance. As Honolulu, HI’s go-to auto body shop, C & H Body And Fender handles the maintenance, restoration, and repair of vehicles of every make and model. Here, the experts share a helpful guide for avoiding ocean-related car damage.

4 Tips to Prevent Ocean Vehicle Damage

1. Use a Car Cover

To prolong the life of your vehicle, invest in a custom-fitted car cover. Whenever you park outside for an extended period, this cover adds a solid layer of protection against salty, ocean air. With reduced salt and moisture exposure, your car will maintain a lavish appearance for years to come.

2. Conquer Car Repair Quickly

If you do experience damage, whether it’s a minor sideswipe or a major accident, handle car repairs right away. Moisture can quickly cause rusting, especially on areas with exposed metal. When you head into the auto body shop, they’ll cover these exposed areas before getting to work. The sooner you head in, the sooner technicians can handle the repairs, getting you back on the road quickly.

3. Wash & Wax Often

With Hawaii’s salty air and oceanside proximity, your car’s paint becomes more vulnerable to rusting and fading. Keep it protected with routine washes, especially after a storm. Hawaii’s frequent rains expose your vehicle to dirt and debris, which is either washed up from the ocean or blown over from the beach itself. Wax your car between washes and you’ll achieve a shiny, like-new appearance. 

4. Maintain the Paint

Automotive paint is susceptive to damage in any climate, but a fresh coat acts as a resistant barrier against the elements, shielding cars against the ocean’s natural effects. Eventually, paint will chip off, aging the look of your vehicle. Maintain a fresh appearance by touching up any missing or faded areas, and gain a defensive layer in the process.

With a few simple tips, your vehicle will keep its appearance no matter what the ocean environment brings. If you do need auto body repair, trust in the experts at C & H Body And Fender. These locals are familiar with ocean damage and will restore your vehicle to excellent condition at an affordable price. Whether you need a fresh layer of automotive paint or a post-accident fix-me-up, you can always expect the best. Visit the auto body shop online to learn more, or call (808) 841-3618 to request your quote today.