How to protect your vehicle’s paintwork from sun damage
New Zealand has some of the most extreme UV levels globally, with maximum summer values between 12 and 13. According to NIWA, anything over a value of 10 is considered extreme. Flaking and patchy paintwork was a problem with vehicles in the 1980s and 1990s – usually because of how primer and paint were applied back then – it is not unusual to see more modern cars suffering similar problems. Still, much of it comes down to sun damage.
Sun damage to the clear coat – the top layer of paint – can cause oxidisation, de-lamination and fading paint. But these aren’t the only problems arising from our harsh sunlight. Sun and heat can damage your car’s dashboard, deteriorate the upholstery and even ruin your vehicle’s rubber weather stripping.
Let’s face it. Most people would prefer not to be driving around in a car with flaking paint, cracked dashboard and faded upholstery. Apart from affecting your trade-in and re-sale prospects, it just isn’t a good look.
Unfortunately, sun damage is not going away either. Since 1909, New Zealand’s national average temperature has increased by 0.10C per decade. Over the last thirty years, rising average temperatures have picked up the pace to 0.31C per decade. Health experts have regularly warned us to protect ourselves from the sun with sunblock, hats and rash tops. It may be time to apply similar advice to your vehicle.
Hibiscus Coast Panelbeaters can remove light oxidisation using tools like a clay bar (which you can also buy over the counter) or a rubbing compound and buffer. However, if the sun damage is terrible, your vehicle may need sanding off, prep work and a respray.
Ultimately, preventing sun damage is always the cheaper option.
