Auto Technical Reference Library Auto Refinishing: General Refinish Procedures

Topic Index

Refinish Variations

Vehicle Care After Repairs

The paint on a newly refinished vehicle may take several months to cure and harden. Due to the softness of the paint, the vehicles finish will require special care.

There are several different considerations when caring for a new finish. They are:

• Avoid automatic drive through car washes for at least 3 months.
• Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Hand wash using water and very little of a recommended soap with a soft wool wash mit or sponge for the first month. Dry with a cotton towel or soft chamois.
• Avoid waxing and polishing for at least three months. After which, use a wax designed for basecoat/clearcoat finishes.
• Avoid scraping ice and snow.
• Flush any type of fluid or chemical spill with water as soon as possible. Avoid wiping contaminants.