You can’t control everything that happens to your car, but your driving and auto detailing habits will go a long way in keeping the vehicle’s body looking its best. A little extra care and caution will help your car continue looking like new for many years to come. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts of caring for your car’s body.

Do:

Park carefully.

Where you park can greatly increase your car’s risk of cosmetic damage. Stay away from active sprinkler systems, which can cause stains and corrosion. Be especially careful in parking lots; give yourself enough space to avoid door dings and shopping cart collisions. 

Wash and wax regularly.

Dust, dirt, and other debris will naturally accumulate on your vehicle as you drive. If it’s allowed to remain for an extended period of time, this can gradually corrode the vehicle’s paint. Regular car washes will remove these contaminants, while auto detailing will add extra protection against ultraviolet rays and other threats.

Don’t:

Ignore small scratches.

Small scratches are inevitable. While they may not look serious, getting scratch repair or dent removal as soon as possible is essential for avoiding further damage. Failure to repair these issues can easily result in rust formation.

Drive on unpaved roads.

Driving on unpaved gravel roads can put your car at serious risk. Flying pebbles and dust can scratch the paint and chip your windshield. Rocky roads can also damage the undercarriage of your vehicle. Avoid such surfaces whenever possible to keep your car looking its best.

By following these auto detailing basics, it will become much easier to avoid cosmetic damage and keep your car looking its best. If you need help restoring your vehicle’s appearance, visit Autoworks Collision Center. Serving Wright and Hennepin counties in Minnesota since 1995, their Automotive Service Excellence-certified team can address everything from minor scratches to major collision repair. To learn more about their services or request a free estimate, visit them online or call (763) 477-6653.