Jeff Breault: Tips to Restore Your Car’s Paint or Finish

For many car enthusiasts like Jeff Breault, cars are works of art. Therefore, they need to do much more than run well, they also need to look good. Besides your car’s design itself, the status of its paint job is the biggest factor that determines its appearance. But what do you do once the paint has begun to fade or oxidize?

Here are steps you can follow to restore your car’s paint:

• Clean your car. Your car’s color could be fading because of dirt that has accumulated on the surface. Cleaning the vehicle removes the dirt and is the first step in any paint restoration job.

• Use a clay bar. Take note that a clay bar doesn’t actually touch your car’s paint, so it will not remove imperfections like swirl marks and scratches. It will, however, remove accumulated grunge and reveal a clear finish that’s ready for polishing.

• Wax the car. There are four types of wax you can use to polish your car: paste wax, liquid wax, spray wax, and wipe-on sealant. Of these, paste and liquid waxes are considered to offer the most superior results. Paste wax is especially great if you live in areas with harsh winters and must be applied a few months before the cold season. Follow the application instructions on the product’s label for the best finish.

As a reminder, make sure to work in a shaded area and never under direct sunlight. This is because most of the products used for paint restoration do not work on warm surfaces. Make sure the surface of the car is cool to the touch before you get started.

Car enthusiasts like Jeff Breault understand that nothing beats prevention in terms of protecting your car’s paint. Maintain a consistent washing schedule to keep dirt off the paint’s top coat. Waxing the car will also add an extra layer of protection from the elements.