There are plenty of decisions to make when it comes to buying a vehicle. Your choice will depend on where you live, your budget, and what your vehicle will be used for—is it a city driver or long distance commuter? Will you be hauling things? Going off road? Do you have kids? Pets? The considerations are endless.
Unless you are buying a brand new vehicle, the colour of your car might be out of your hands. If you can find the right automobile for the right price, you might be willing to sacrifice on colour because it seems like the thing that will have the last effect on your experience.
But that’s not entirely true — the colour and quality of a paint job can enhance your ride and save or cost you money down the road. Some paint, and/or paint applications, are poor quality and will fade, chip, bubble and crack. This can decrease the resale value of your vehicle and be a costly fix.
So, when it comes to long lasting car paint, there are a few things to consider. Paint science is constantly evolving and improving, but it’s not totally perfect so it’s up to the consumer to do some research and take precautions when buying a vehicle.
In order to protect yourself from buying a car that’s riddled with paint problems, here is what to look for:
Watch for bumps
In the paint, that is. A high quality paint job will produce a smooth and shiny surface. If you notice bubbles or a pebbled effect anywhere on the car, move on.
How’s the hood?
The vehicle’s hood is the easiest part to paint so if there are imperfections there, there is a good chance the rest of the car’s paint job will be worse.
Under the sun
If you are purchasing a vehicle, inspect the exterior in different lighting, not just the underground garage or inside of a showroom. Take it out in the sunlight, too, to see if any paint flaws appear.
Pro or no?
If you are doing a private sale for a used vehicle, use extra caution and try not to make a snap decision. Take your time to closely inspect the vehicle’s paint job. If you notice an area that looks like it has not been professionally done, be wary.
People try to get away with all kinds of scams, including poorly done paint touch ups. This will cost you in the long run and will lower the price should you want to resell the vehicle in the future.
Once you purchase a vehicle, there are things you can do to protect the paint job to make it last longer:
- Keep it clean, waxed and dry.
- Use a soft cloth to remove things like bird droppings, salt buildup, sap and dirt.
- Repair scratches and dents at an auto body shop.
If you are looking for ways to enhance or lengthen the life of your car’s paint job, always seek the advice of a professional. At Super Euro Vancouver Auto Body Shop, we are always happy to help.