Mitsubishi exterior maintenance is important as even a Mitsubishi's paint can become worn over time due to exposure to the sun and the elements. Your paint is protected by a clear coat that prevents color fading, and caring for this protective layer will keep the color as sharp as the day you bought your car. These are a few tips on caring for your paint. Regular Washing Dust and dirt are everywhere, and dirt can cling to your car when you're driving. Although dust granules are minute, they can still cause damage to the clear coat. Scratches in the coating can become larger over time, allowing water, mud, and dirt access to the paint layers below. A regular washing schedule removes all these particles and protects your paint from damage. You can wash your car yourself or take it to a car wash. If you choose a car wash, we advise checking the car wash before you drive through it. Worn or damaged rollers or bristles might clean the paint but can also damage it. Washing your car yourself is the safest way to know it's been correctly and safely cleaned. Always use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth for washing, as these materials are gentle on the paintwork. Regular Waxing Once your car has been washed and allowed to dry, waxing is an excellent way to enhance your Mitsubishi's paint and protect it at the same time. Choose a high-quality wax and use a microfiber cloth to wax small sections, and then buff them with a clean cloth. Waxing can take some time, but it's worth it to see your Mitsubishi gleaming in the sunlight. It's advisable to wax your car at least every three months. The wax forms a protective layer between the clear coat and the environment, and can even repair tiny scratches in the paint. It's particularly important to wax at least once before summer starts and then in fall before winter arrives. Summer and winter conditions have the highest impact on your paint. Park With Care Birds are beautiful creatures, but their droppings aren't. Bird droppings are acidic and can rapidly eat through the paint and damage it. In addition, fruit from certain trees can also damage your paint. If you have to park under trees, a car cover is quick to pull over your car and will protect it against these unwanted falling items. When you choose a cover, check that it's made from breathable fabric. This allows heat from your car to easily escape from under the cover instead of becoming trapped and turning to moisture which could lead to rust. If you'd like more tips on protecting your Mitsubishi's exterior, visit us today at Banister Mitsubishi-Hampton in Hampton, VA.