How to Tell It’s Time for a New Paint Job

When Does Your Car Need a New Paint Job?

It’s about that time of the year… let’s talk all things paint! You might be in that in-between phase where you’re wondering, “Do I ignore the damages or invest in a new paint job?” This is something that can seem quite daunting at first. So let’s take a look at the top indicators you should look for when deciding if it’s time for a new paint job.

So, when does your car need a new paint job?

Accidents

What may seem like a minor accident can actually lead to bigger problems down the road with your car. Even though driving might not be affected, a scratch could lead to further cracking, and the paint could begin to bubble. This can leave the body of your car susceptible to rust, inevitably spreading if left uncovered. The same is common with dents. Whether you back into a pole or a hail storm blows through once again, if the repercussions expose metal, then you will most likely need to take care of it with a new paint job.

Faded Paint

Another reason someone might need a new paint job is when their current paint job starts to fade. This could happen due to the age of the vehicle, leaving your car in the sun for too long, or even extreme cold. Lack of regular washing can lead to a build-up of bird poop, bugs, and dirt which can also harm your paint job. Waxing your car adds a protective layer against such factors, but if you do not wax your car enough, then you will probably see your paint starting to fade sooner rather than later.

Clear Coat Peeling

Clear coating is actually a protective layer that shields your paint from external factors. If it starts to break apart, this will leave your car very exposed. Once the clear coat peels, it is only a matter of time before the base coat of paint will wear away, causing rust. Cars are most susceptible to rust in winter conditions. Especially in Colorado, salt used to keep the roads clear can get flung by your tires and begin to harm the paint on your car. If neglected, these scratches and holes can leave your vehicle vulnerable.

Things to Know Before Your Vehicle’s Paint Job

It’s Going to Take Some Time

Now that we know when to get a new paint job, it’s important to understand some aspects of the work required for your car’s new look. First and foremost, this is going to take some time. Why? Well, new paint cannot be applied to old paint. Because of fading and other damages through the years, existing paint doesn’t allow for the application of a new, smooth coat. Therefore, our technicians must remove the existing layers of paint and prep the vehicle’s exterior before they can even start the painting process.

New Paint Doesn’t Fix Everything…Sadly

It’s also important to understand that, sad though it may be, new paint doesn’t fix everything. In fact, sometimes a new slab of paint can highlight the issue rather than cover it up. It is best to first remove the old paint, fix the damage, and then add the new layer of paint. Again, this is another reason why a new paint job can take longer than you might think.

Paint Jobs Require More Than Just Painting

Often, auto body shops have to remove more than just the old paint before they can begin painting. During the painting process, to protect your vehicle, auto body shops may have to remove interior parts of your vehicle. This can include the console, the seats, and the dash! Removing these components eliminates the risk of damaging them.

The Results

This is an investment that leaves you smiling and satisfied. Rather than taking the back entrance to work every day, you can now proudly roll down the street at a blissful 5 miles per hour…just in case someone missed your vehicle’s shine! Make sure to take extra good care of that paint job. You want it to last! Wash your car regularly and apply wax at least once every 6 months. If you don’t have a garage to park in, try to park underneath some shade to decrease sun damage.