How To Protect Your Vehicle Exterior

The exterior of your vehicle is the first thing people will notice when they look at it. It’s, therefore, vital that you keep it looking great; otherwise, it will lose its value quicker than it ideally would.

The good news is there are some simple exterior detailing measures you can take to protect your vehicle’s exterior, whether you drive a car, truck, or SUV. From regular washing to waxing and polishing, there are different methods you can use to keep your vehicle looking like it just rolled off the lot.

Read on to learn how to protect your vehicle’s exterior to maintain its value and keep it looking better for longer.

Keep Your Car Clean

Keeping your car clean is one of the most important things you can do to protect your vehicle’s exterior. Dirt and debris can cause scratches and wear on the paint, making your car look dull and worn out.

To keep your car clean, you should wash it regularly with the right products and give it a thorough rinse after. Abrasive brushes and towels can cause scratches and damage the paint, while soaps not meant for your car can damage the paint in the long run.

Lastly, make sure to dry your car after washing it. Use a clean, soft towel or chamois cloth to avoid leaving water spots.

Waxing and Polishing

After you've given your car a good wash, you can go a step further to protect its exterior by waxing and polishing it with a paint sealant.

Doing so will help to create a protective barrier against the elements and will help to keep the paint looking glossy and new. However, polishing can help restore the car's shine by removing scratches and paint swirls.

Although applying wax and polish isn't particularly difficult, it's best to take a few safety precautions just in case. For example, use a clean, soft cloth to apply the product, and keep the car out of direct sunlight to prevent the product from drying out too quickly.

As an alternative, you can have a professional detailing service take care of the job for you when you bring your car to them.

Always Park in a Shaded Spot

Finding a shaded area to park your car is crucial to shielding it from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight exposure for long periods can cause the paint to fade and become dull. With time, the paint can become brittle and eventually peel or crack.

An excellent solution to this issue is to always park your car in a shaded area. If you can’t find a shaded spot, you should consider investing in a car cover. Either of these will protect the paint from both dust and the sun’s harsh UV rays.

Drive Carefully on the Road

Being a cautious driver is an easy way to keep the outside of your car in good condition. Avoid excessive speeding and keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road to avoid collisions that could damage the exterior of your vehicle.

You should also try to stay alert at all times and avoid driving in areas where there are potential hazards, such as potholes and traffic diversions. When driving on gravel roads, be cautious because small stones and rocks can collide with your vehicle and chip the paint.

Invest in Paint Protection Film

A paint protection film (PPF) is a thin, clear film that is applied to the exterior surfaces of a vehicle to protect them from scratches, chips, and other damage. It's also UV resistant, which helps prevent fading and discoloration caused by the sun.

You can install PPF yourself if you feel confident enough, but it's a delicate and technical process. If not applied correctly, you will have air bubbles and creases, which can compromise the look of your car. However, a professional exterior detailing service can guarantee a much better finish.

Contact Chow’s Detailing for Top-Notch Exterior Auto Detailing Services in Houston, TX

Taking the necessary steps to safeguard your vehicle's exterior is essential for keeping it looking brand new and maintaining its value. From the car's paint to the wheels, there are many valuable components to protect from the elements.

By following the steps mentioned above, you can ensure your car's exterior remains in good condition. But if you don’t have the time or skills, you should consider investing in professional exterior detailing services from Chow’s Detailing.

At Chow's Detailing, we provide a host of exterior detailing services, such as cleaning, waxing, paint correction, ceramic coating application, and headlight restoration service. On top of exterior detailing, we also offer interior detailing and engine detailing services to keep the engine bay clean from dust, oils, and grime.

As our client, you can expect a comprehensive exterior and interior cleaning service that will transform your car.

Call us at (281) 705-3482 to learn more about our Houston, TX, exterior detailing packages.