Oxidation is a chemical method that causes the vehicle paint to crack over time from heat and oxygen exposure. It is a type of corrosion in which paint dries off due to losing its oil content. Although this procedure is gradual, the results could be disastrous.
As paint oxidizes, it becomes duller. The color loses its shine, and the vehicle’s surface has a faded and chalky look. Cars with oxidation often seem old and worn out. The clearcoat gradually deteriorates due to oxidation, which can permanently remove the paint and make the car’s body vulnerable to corrosion.
Removing oxidation protects the paint, restores a vehicle’s luster, and can significantly boost its resale value. You can do this in a cost-effective way that requires some easy-to-use tools and materials, as well as a good dose of patience.
Required Materials And Tools
The following car oxidation removal products are required, and you can find them at your local parts store or in the automotive/hardware departments of a big-box store:
- A car wash kit consisting of soap, sponge, bucket, and several drying cloths or microfiber towels
- Automotive masking tape
- An electric buffer with buffing pads ranging from soft to heavy-duty
- Rubbing compound
- Car polish
- Car wax
Steps To Removing Oxidation
- First, give your car a good wash. Purge the area that has dust, dirt, or debris. After parking, move to a shaded or covered place. Broad daylight will heat the sheet metal and paint, which is different from what you want when you apply compound or polish and buy car oxidation removal products.
- Once the car is dry, remove the tape from all plastic and chrome molding and trim pieces near the oxidized area. Then, apply a small compound to the oxidized area and gradually use the electric buffer to work it into the paint. Repeat the process many times, gently circling the region. The brightness of the paint should start to show through with each pass.
- Use the softest pad and the slowest setting to start buffing. If the initial effort fails to eliminate the oxidation, switch to a more powerful pad and a faster buffer setting. After polishing, use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to remove any remaining compound.
- Use the car polish, and repeat the procedure. The polish should be softly worked over the affected area with the buffer. This method will increase the glossiness and luster of the paint. To remove extra polish, wipe the area with a soft towel.
- Finally, apply wax over the entire thing after the car has been washed, buffed, and shined. This process will add a layer of defense over the paint and aid in avoiding further oxidation. Instead of using a machine, apply the wax by hand-use a delicate cloth.
- The area where you’ve removed oxidation frequently gets brighter than the rest of the car. In that case, give the entire automobile a gentle buff and polish to give it a uniform appearance.
Preventing Oxidation
To prevent oxidation in the future, it is essential to use car wax that removes oxidation once every month or two. This protective layer will keep paint from getting exposed to oxygen and other harmful elements. Additionally, parking your car in a garage and away from direct sunlight is recommended. Consider using a car cover if the car has to be parked in an open space.
