How to Wash Your Car After Auto Body Paint Repair

Fresh automotive paint needs careful treatment while it finishes curing. If your vehicle was recently repaired or refinished, follow the body shop’s instructions before washing or waxing it. The correct waiting time can depend on the paint system, repair area and weather conditions. When Can You Wash a Repainted Car? Ask the repair shop when the vehicle is ready to be washed. Once you are cleared to wash it, use cool or lukewarm water, automotive car-wash soap and a clean microfiber wash mitt. Wash gently in the shade and dry the surface with a soft microfiber towel. Avoid automatic brush-style car washes on newly painted panels. Their stiff brushes can trap dirt and leave scratches or swirl marks. Also avoid aiming a pressure washer closely at fresh paint, repaired edges, moldings or decals. How to Protect Your Vehicle’s Finish Bird droppings, tree sap, road salt, bugs and dirt can damage or stain automotive paint if they remain on the surface. Remove contamination promptly, but do not scrape it. Soften the material with water and car-wash soap, then wipe it away gently with a clean microfiber towel. Use separate clean towels and wash tools so grit is not dragged across the paint. Do not use household dish soap because it can strip protective products and is not designed for automotive finishes. When Can You Wax Fresh Paint? Do not wax, polish or apply a ceramic coating to a newly painted area until the repair shop says the finish has cured enough. Applying a product too soon may interfere with the curing process. When in doubt, call the shop that completed the repair and ask what is recommended for your vehicle. Paint and Body Repair in Victoria, TX All Pro Paint & Body provides collision repair, paint refinishing and free estimates in Victoria, Texas. If you have questions about caring for a repaired panel—or need help with faded, scratched or damaged paint—call 361-894-6391 or visit www.allpropaintbody.com.