Now that your car has a new, fantastic looking paint job, it’s time to make sure you take care of it.

Here are a few ways you can keep your vehicle’s new paint job looking great:

• It is recommended that your freshly painted vehicle be kept in a garage to prevent damage from tree sap and bird droppings. These substances contain acids that can erode the finish. If contact occurs, wash immediately with soap and water. This is especially important for the first few days.
• Leaving your car out overnight allows acid dew to sit on the top surfaces of your vehicle. A quick rinse in the morning is highly recommended to prevent damage.
• Do not use a car cover, or commercial car wash, for the first 30 days after a new paint job. Hand washing is always best to keep the finish looking new.
• Do not polish or wax your car for 90 days after painting. Use only non-abrasive wax or polish formulated for cars every 4 months.
• Avoid placing any object on your car hood or trunk lid. When objects are moved, even slightly, they will scratch the paint leaving a mark in your new, perfect finish.
• Do not allow people to sit on your car exterior. Whether person’s clothing may have rivets, or they have keys in their pockets or on their hips, both can potentially scratch your paint.
• Use common sense. Taking care of a car after it is freshly painted simply involves using a bit of common sense. If you wouldn’t place an object on a fine oil painting, don’t put it on your car. Don’t leave the car in parking lots parked close to other vehicles because they will ding your door paint; instead park farther away and walk a bit. Avoid leaving your car in the sun for days on end if you have a covered parking space to avoid sun damage.