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Writer's pictureTavis White

The Long-Term Degradation of Car Paint from Automatic Washes

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking your car through an automatic car wash seems like a quick and efficient solution to keep it looking clean. However, while these washes may save you time, they can be slowly but steadily damaging your car’s paint. Over time, the convenience of automatic washes can lead to the long-term degradation of your vehicle’s exterior, diminishing its aesthetic appeal and overall value.


The Culprits Behind Paint Damage


Automatic car washes typically use large brushes or cloth strips that spin rapidly to clean the surface of your car. While they might seem soft and harmless, these materials often harbor tiny particles of dirt, grime, and debris from previous washes. When these particles come into contact with your car’s paint, they act like sandpaper, creating micro-scratches and swirl marks. Additionally, the harsh chemicals used in some automatic washes can strip away the protective wax layer on your car, leaving the paint exposed to the elements.


Over time, this constant assault on your car’s paint can lead to oxidation, where the paint loses its luster and becomes dull. The clear coat, designed to protect the underlying paint, can also start to wear away, making your car more susceptible to further damage from UV rays, bird droppings, and other environmental factors.


How Our Eyes Adjust to the Damage


One of the reasons car owners might not notice this gradual degradation is due to the way our eyes adjust to changes over time. When you see your car every day, the subtle accumulation of scratches, swirl marks, and fading paint may not be immediately noticeable. It’s only when you compare your car to a newer or freshly detailed vehicle that the extent of the damage becomes apparent.


This gradual degradation is like a frog in boiling water—because the change happens slowly, it’s easy to overlook. As a result, many car owners continue using automatic washes, unaware of the long-term harm they are inflicting on their vehicle’s appearance.


The Benefits of Paint Correction


If you’ve noticed that your car’s paint isn’t as vibrant as it once was, or if you want to prevent further damage, paint correction is an excellent solution. Paint correction is a professional process that involves carefully removing a thin layer of the clear coat to eliminate surface imperfections like swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation. The result is a smooth, glossy finish that restores your car’s original shine and luster.


Not only does paint correction improve the look of your car, but it also adds a layer of protection. By removing the damaged clear coat and restoring the paint, your vehicle becomes more resistant to environmental factors, ensuring it stays looking great for longer.


Investing in paint correction is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a way to maintain your car’s value and protect your investment. Instead of letting the damage accumulate, take proactive steps to restore and preserve your car’s beauty. After all, your car is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a reflection of your attention to detail and pride in ownership.




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