Car paint fading away is a common issue faced by countless car owners, but why does this happen? And how can you reverse this and make your car look as good as new? This and more will be explained in this article as we explore “How to make car shiny”.
Why do car paints fade away?
Sunlight is the primary reason car paint fades away. Ultraviolet radiation in sunlight breaks down the chemical bonds in paint pigments, causing them to lose their vibrancy and fade over time.
This effect is particularly noticeable in cars exposed to prolonged sunlight.
Oxidation is the reaction between the molecules of car paint and oxygen in the air. Car paint may become faded and less vibrant as a result of this chemical reaction changing the paint’s molecular structure. It is more common in vehicles that are older or have been exposed to extreme environmental conditions.
The quality of the paint used by the car manufacturers significantly affects its resistance to fading. Many car owners go for lower-quality or thinner car paint layers which are more vulnerable to deterioration from external factors.
Many modern cars have a clear coat layer applied over the car’s paint for added protection and to make the car shine. However, this clear coat can degrade over time due to UV exposure and environmental factors, leading to paint fading.
Making your car shiny
Giving your vehicle an amazing shine involves a straightforward process, this process is explained below.
Washing it
Washing is the first step in the car paint restoration process to achieve an amazing shine. A thorough wash with car wash soap not only removes dirt and grime but also lays the foundation for subsequent treatments that enhance the luster of the paint job.
Cars accumulate various contaminants like dust, dirt, bird droppings, pollen, and road grime, which, if left unchecked, can damage the paint over time.
To start, give the car a thorough water rinse to get rid of any loose dirt or debris.
Using a car wash soap and wash sponge, start washing the car from the top down, section by section.
This keeps dirt from the lower parts from being carried up to areas of the car that you have already washed. Rinse every area completely with clean water after washing it to get rid of any residue from the car wash soap.
Use a separate wash brush for the wheels and tires since they are usually extremely dirty.
Use a clean, dry microfiber towel to dry the car’s body thoroughly, starting from top to bottom to prevent water spots from forming.
Using a clay bar
Using a clay bar after washing your car is the next thing to do in the car paint restoration process. Clay barring removes embedded contaminants, providing a smoother surface for subsequent treatments like polishing and waxing and making your car as clean as a new car.
Ensure your car is clean and completely dry after washing. Working on a dirty or wet surface can cause the clay bar to trap debris, potentially causing surface scratches. After flattening the clay bar into a piece the size of your palm, spray the lubricant on the car’s exterior.
Applying minimal pressure, carefully move the clay bar across the lubricated area, avoid making circular motions that could result in swirl marks. Instead, work in straight lines or overlapping motions to guarantee a smooth and clean result.
Use a microfiber towel to wipe off any residue left behind by the clay bar to ensure the car’s surface is clean and smooth.
Polishing
Polishing can improve the overall look of your car by bringing out the true depth and color of the car’s paint. It acts as paint correction, producing a shiny and amazing result.
Car polish helps improve the surface quality so that waxes or sealants adhere more successfully, leaving a long-lasting shine and providing protection from environmental factors.
Before starting, it’s advisable to do a small test spot in an inconspicuous area to gauge the effectiveness of the polishing compound and its impact on your car’s paint.
Apply a small amount of the polish to the applicator pad and spread it evenly on the surface of the pad, then apply the polish onto the paint surface using the applicator pad in circular or overlapping motions.
If you are using a dual-action polisher, start with a low speed. Work the polish into the paint, gradually increasing the speed, and keep the pad moving to avoid heat buildup and overworking one area.
After polishing each section, use a clean microfiber cloth or microfiber towel to wipe off the residue. Check for any remaining paint imperfections and repeat the process if necessary.
Once the entire car is polished, inspect the car’s surface under different lighting conditions to ensure a uniform finish.
Use a ceramic coating
Liquid polymer solutions, known as ceramic coatings, chemically adhere to paint to form a layer of protection against UV rays, impurities in the environment, and fine scratches. These coatings create a much more durable semi-permanent bond with the paint than regular waxes or sealants. Some ceramic coatings can protect the paint for years with proper maintenance.
Ceramic coating repels water and contaminants, making the car’s surface easier to clean and maintain. Begin the application process by wiping down the paint surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining oils, waxes, or residues that could hinder the bonding of the ceramic coating.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply a small amount of ceramic coating onto the applicator pad. Apply the coating to a small section of the car, working in straight, overlapping lines to ensure even coverage and ensure your car’s shine.
Allow the coating to sit on the surface for the specified time mentioned in the product’s instructions. After that, gently buff and level the coating with a clean microfiber towel to achieve a smooth and even finish.
After cleaning with a microfiber cloth, you may also want to consider applying car shampoo to enhance the car paint even more.
Most ceramic coating requires a curing period, park the car in a dry, sheltered area, and avoid exposing it to water or harsh weather conditions during this time as it can affect the curing process.
After the car paint restoration, perform a final inspection of the paint job to ensure uniform coverage and make your car shine.
Additional tips for making your car shine
- Detailing sprays: detailing sprays are a convenient and effective way to maintain your the shine of your car’s paintwork between washes. They offer a quick refresh and provide a temporary glossy finish while removing light dust, fingerprints, and smudges.
- Paint protection film: regularly wash your car and consider using a paint protection film to protect the car’s paintwork from degradation and preserve the shine of your vehicle.
- Using filtered water: consider using filtered water when washing your car to minimize water spots caused by mineral deposits.
- Weather exposure: when possible, park your car in covered or shaded areas to protect it from prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight, rain, or snow, as environmental and climatic conditions can deteriorate the paint and shine over time.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners: when polishing or cleaning with car shampoo, avoid abrasive cleaners or rough materials that can scratch or dull the paint surface.
FAQ
What makes a car super shiny?
Applying polish on a vehicle can remove visible scratches from the vehicle, help improve the paint job, and make it super shiny.
How do people get their cars so shiny?
Most people give their vehicles a glossy shine by applying high-quality car polish on the vehicle.
What can I spray on my car to make it shine?
There are several amazing car detailing products you can spray on your vehicle to make it shine. These products include Shine Armor spray wax and Adams car wax.
How can I make my car really shiny?
You can make your car really shiny by applying high-quality car detailing products like Ice Spray Wax and Adams spray wax.
How do you wash a car and make it shine?
To wash your car and make it shine, use a high-quality car polish and consider using a clay bar before polishing the vehicle.
The bottom line
Polishing your vehicle is an effective way to give it your desired shine and make it look amazing. By following the right steps and using this article as a guide, you can easily make your car shine and give it an amazing finish.