Fresh auto painting will breathe new life into any car—and regular cleaning ensures that paint job lasts a long time. For the best results, wash your car every 1-2 weeks in the shade on a cool day. Never use any products on a warm vehicle, either from the sun or driving. Doing so causes soap and wax to stick to the car. Follow these steps to get the most out of your auto painting job.

Ways to Make Your Auto Painting Last

1. Choose the Right Soap

Do not use dish or laundry soap to clean your car, as these will damage the paint and wax coatings. Instead, choose a lubricated soap that’s intended for cleaning cars. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly and use a microfiber mitt to wash the car, starting at the roof and working down—so dirt doesn’t drip over clean spots.

2. Always Dry Your Car

Letting your car dry outside will leave water spots. After a thorough rinse, let it drip dry for a few minutes. Then use a microfiber cloth or chamois to dry the car—once again working from the roof down. Always use a fresh, clean towel or chamois and do not wash it with fabric softener, as that will clog the grooves in the fabric that absorb water.

3. Wax Every Three Months

Waxes with carnauba work well for an auto painting job. This wax has a high melting point, resistance to UV light, and is hydrophobic. Apply a thin layer of wax to your car, a section at a time. Let the wax set before removal—check the directions on the container for an optimal set time. Then in small circles, applying a little bit of pressure, use a microfiber towel to remove the wax.

If you need auto painting, trust the team at Schneider Auto Body in Columbia, MO. They’ve been providing reasonably priced, high-quality, custom auto body work since 1989. With their eco-friendly products, they guarantee your car’s exterior paint will be beautiful and last a long time. Visit their website to see a full list of services or call (573) 815-0198 to request a free estimate.