How soon after my car is painted can I wash or wax it?
Washing or Waxing your Freshly Painted Car
After new paint work on your car, all you want to do is keep it clean, I know! However, there are certain precautions that need to be taken immediately after a fresh paint job.
While there is no waiting required for a simple wash, as long as there is no wax product in your regular wash soap. You should refrain from waxing your vehicle for at least 30 days.
Here are some Do’s and DON’T’s to care for your new paint:
DO’S
- Clean your newly painted vehicle often
- Wash your car in a shaded area to ensure soap does not dry on the vehicle before rinsing it off
- Use a separate sponge to clean the wheels and tires, debris may accumulate which will scratch your paint
- You should start at the top and work your way down, rinsing as you go
- When drying the vehicle, use a soft terry towel
DONT’S
- Do NOT use dish soap, this may strip the paint or protective wax
- Do NOT put cleaning sponges/towels on the ground, they can pick up small debris which will scratch paint
- Do NOT leave water residue on the vehicle, this could cause permanent water marks on the paint
- Do NOT wash your car in the sun, heat drys the soap, increasing the chance of spots
- Do NOT move sponge in circles, this could cause swirl marks in the paint
- Do NOT let your vehicle air dry, this will leave watermarks
Follow these few tips and you can bet on a beautiful, long lasting paint job!
Visit Andy’s Auto Service in Bridgeville, PA either in person or online at www.andysautobridgeville.com for more helpful automotive maintenance and repair tips call 412-478-9304.
