Fresh Paint Guide

Unlike new car factory finishes that are fully cured and ready to wax, repainted car finishes require special attention for their first 90 days.  During this critical period, freshly painted finishes must be allowed to breathe as their solvent content evaporates and flashes off&allowing the paint to achieve its intended hardness and durability.  This is called the "curing" process.

Warning:  Applying car wax to fresh re-paint traps the solvents in the paint.  This could prevent the proper curing process, leaving the paint finish vulnerable to accelerated deterioration.

Wash Frequently

During the first 90 days, freshly painted car finishes are soft and easily penetrated by bonded contaminants.  This makes it especially important to wash your car more frequently during this time period.  Regular car washing is the easiest way to remove contaminants before they have enough time to bond to your paint finish.

Washing Tips

To minimize water spotting and etching, always wash your car in the shade and make certain that the surface is cool to the touch. 

For best results, NEVER use dishwashing or household detergents to wash your car.  They will dry out your paint and accelerate the oxidation process.

Only use car wash formulations, like Meguiar's Gold Class" Car Wash Shampoo and Conditioner or NXT Generation" Car Wash, which are pH-balanced and will enhance and condition your newly painted surface.

Start from the top and work your way down, one section at a time, applying car wash solution liberally using a Meguiar's Gold Class Ultra Plush Wash Mitt, Professional Grade Wash Sponge or Versa-Angle Body Brush.

Use two buckets, one for washing and one for rinsing, or a grit guard, to make certain that your sponge, brush or mitt is not inflicting scratches by reapplying the dirt and grime that you just removed.

To reduce the time in which it takes to dry your vehicle, on the final rinse, remove the nozzle and let the water gently flow out over the surfaces of your car in a stream of water rather than a spray.  This will sheet the water off of your car, leaving much less water to dry and saving you a lot of time and effort.

To avoid scratches during the drying process, only use a high quality microfiber or super terry towel like Meguiar's Gold Class Super Absorbent Water Magnet, or Ultra Plush Super Terry, both trimmed with premium satin edges to prevent scratches.

The "Missing Link" Between Washing & Waxing

 Regular maintenance with a mist and wipe product removes fresh contaminants before they have time to bond to, or etch into, your paint finish.  This is the missing link between washing and waxing that dramatically extends the durability of car wax and, in the case of freshly painted finishes, eliminates potential damage.   Keep Meguiar's Quik Detailer® and a Supreme Shine Microfiber or Ultra Plush Super Terry towel readily available to quickly and safely remove water spots and contaminants like bird droppings, bugs, tree sap mist, road film, dust and overspray and to provide a renewed shine.  Stubborn stains or spots that cannot be removed with a mist and wipe product should be immediately washed.

Pure Polish is made for Fresh Paint

Unlike car waxes that cannot be used on repainted finishes for the first 90 days, a "pure" polish can be used without hesitation to create brilliant, deep, clear gloss on your newly painted car.  Rather than coat your finish, pure polishes penetrate, rejuvenate and literally polish out every minute surface imperfection to create a dazzling, mirror bright finish without inhibiting the curing process.

After 90 days, most repainted car finishes are fully cured and ready to wax.  If you prefer to "wax" your car more than 6 times a year, it is best to only use a pure polish like Meguiar's Deep Crystal Polish to avoid wax buildup.  

Details - Little Things Make a Big Difference

- Park your car in the shade and under cover to avoid contaminants and UV degradation.

- Avoid parking near trees.  Tree sap mist is the most prevalent bonded contaminant on car finishes, destroying slickness and gloss.
- Avoid the use of rubbing compounds and all other abrasive products.

- To achieve maximum gloss and protection, use a detailing clay or clear coat-safe paint cleaner to make your paint as smooth as glass before you wax your car.

- Wash and Quik Detail your car regularly to remove contaminants before they have time to bond and etch into your paint finish.

By following these simple suggestions, your freshly painted car will look like a new car for as long as you own it.