6 Effective and Easy Tips to Preserve Your Car’s Clear Coat

September 3, 2024

The average vehicle has approximately 30,000 parts, each serving a unique and significant role. The clear coat on your car is no different. Not only does it help your car sparkle and shine, but the clear coat also protects the underlying paint from damage. This transparent barrier shields your vehicle from UV rays, dirt, and debris, ensuring your car always looks its best.  

With proper care and maintenance, the clear coat can last for many years (even decades!). We’ve laid out six simple ways to protect your car’s clear coat and preserve your vehicle’s glossy finish for a long time. 

Keep it Clean:

Maintaining a clean car is not just about aesthetics. When bird droppings, tree sap, or other debris sit on the outside of your car for long periods of time, it can start to wear away at the clear coat and cause serious damage. As soon as you start to notice dirt on your car, we recommend a trip to Super Star Car Wash. 

Dry Thoroughly:

Nobody likes pesky water spots on your car, but when mixed with pollutants, those seemingly harmless droplets can start to eat away at your car’s clear coat, putting the paint at risk. The drying systems at the end of every Super Star Car Wash tunnel are very effective, and of course we offer FREE microfiber towels to wipe away any leftover moisture.  

Be Gentle:

Regular towels and rags can leave tiny scratches and swirl marks on your car’s exterior. That’s why we always recommend using soft microfiber towels, which are specially designed to absorb moisture without causing any damage. Don’t worry about going to the store to buy these; Super Star Car Wash offers free microfiber towels at every location for your convenience.  

Wax & Seal Regularly:

Regularly applying wax and sealant provides an extra layer of protection against UV rays and environmental contaminants, maintaining the clear coat’s shine and preventing fading or peeling. Not sure where to start? No problem. With a Super Protect plan from Super Star Car Wash, a quick trip through our tunnel means your car is automatically protected with the best waxes and sealants available.  

Use Coatings for Extra Protection:

For superior protection, consider ceramic coatings or Graphene, which form a durable, hydrophobic layer that acts as a barrier between your clear coat and the elements. Ceramic coatings offer enduring protection, simplify car cleaning, and minimize the risk of swirl marks and stains. Graphene, a newer advancement in car care technology, provides even greater strength and resistance due to its unique molecular structure, making it an excellent choice for long-term clear coat protection. 

Avoid the Sun:

Exposing your car to UV rays for an extended period can cause the paint to fade. We know it’s not always possible to park in a garage or under cover but do so when you can. Be careful when parking under trees, though. The acid in bird poop can eat through your car’s clear coat and destroy the paint. Learn more about how to protect your car from extreme heat.  

And there you have it! Out of the six ways listed above to protect your clear coat, numbers one through five can be checked off your list just by visiting a Super Star Car Wash location near you. This is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to protect your vehicle long term. We hope you’ll come visit us soon to experience the difference for yourself. Click here to learn more.