New paint on a vehicle requires special care until the paint is fully cured. There are some basic steps you can take to protect your new paint job and also regular maintenance you can perform to help ensure the paint lasts for many years.
Automotive paint has gone through many changes over the years. In the late 1800s, vehicles were hand-painted with a brush using a black varnish. By the 1920s, lacquer-based paint was being used and available in colors. In the 1930s, enamel paint was being applied and by the 1950s, lacquer mixed with acrylic was used, with the acrylic offering more durability. In the late 1970s, a clear-coat finish over the paint began to surface; in the 1980s, clear coat was commonly employed on new cars. Clear coat applied over the paint provides UV protection and durability against scratches. The clear-coat system is a two-stage process. The color coat of paint is the first stage; the clear coat is the second stage. Also, some aftermarket paint jobs may be just a single stage, using urethanes blended into the color. This eliminates the need for a second stage of a clear-coat application.
Time Frame
New paint, whether a single- or two-stage process, typically requires 60 to 90 days to fully harden and cure. This depends on the environment as well. In high humidity or a colder climate, the paint will take longer to cure than in a dry and warm climate.
Warning
Waxes that contain silicones must not be used during the curing period. The silicone will smother the paint, not allowing it to breathe properly and release chemicals still in the paint. Without these invisible solvent releases, the paint may crack or discolor. There are some polishes available that don't contain silicone that are safe to use on new paint. These will protect the finish and give it a shine without harming it. Something else to avoid are automatic car washes, which may create scratches in the fresh paint. Car wash detergents are not suggested to be used during the curing period. It's best to use only water to clean the paint, washing the car by hand with a soft cloth. Even snow brushes used on a new finish may harm it. Avoid prolonged, direct sunlight also; the sun can cause fading of the new paint through the UV rays.
Prevention/Solution
A new paint job can last many years with proper maintenance. Once the paint has cured, there are many choices of quality car waxes that should be used regularly to preserve and protect the paint from UV rays, road salt and stones that may cause chipping or pitting. Hand car waxing is preferred over automatic car wash spray wax, which will not penetrate or last nearly as long as hand waxing. Special tar-removal products should also be used. These will also work on bird droppings and insect spatters, which should be removed as soon as possible to avoid staining.
Considerations
You may consider obtaining the paint mix code from the painter so that you can order touch-up paint for small chips or scratches. Clear coat will protect the paint with its plastic-like film but will also yellow in time, especially noticeable on a light-colored or white paint job. An occasional buffing with a fine or very fine rubbing compound used with a motorized buffer will quickly remove the yellowing and bring back the color.
