- Regular cleaning, drying, and waxing are essential for preserving the exterior of your electric car, and protecting it from dirt, water spots, and harmful elements.
- Promptly repairing scratches prevents further damage, while parking in the shade can protect your car from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
- For the best results, use specific car washing, drying, waxing, and scratch repair products, and consider professional help for severe damage.
- Maintaining your electric car’s exterior keeps it looking good and preserves its resale value.
Maintaining the exterior of your electric car is just as important as taking care of its battery and motor. A well-maintained exterior does more than just make your car look good; it helps preserve its resale value and longevity. In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best ways to keep your electric car’s exterior looking as shiny and new as the day you drove it off the lot.
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is the first and foremost step in maintaining the exterior of your electric car, helping to remove dirt, grime, and other elements that can damage the paint over time. Here are some tips:
Regular Washing
Washing your car regularly, at least once every two weeks, can keep harmful elements at bay. Use a car-specific wash soap, not dish soap or any other cleaner as they can strip off the car’s protective wax. Start by rinsing your car to remove loose dirt. Then, using a soft cloth or sponge, wash the car from top to bottom.
This prevents the dirt accumulated at the bottom from scratching the top surface. Don’t forget to clean the underside and the wheel wells, as these areas often collect dirt and salt. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots. Regular washing keeps your car sparkling and allows you to spot any minor damages or chips in the paintwork early on, preventing further damage.
Dry Properly
Drying your car properly after washing is a step that should not be overlooked, as it plays a significant role in maintaining the car’s exterior. Leaving the car to air-dry can lead to water spots, dulling the vehicle’s shine over time. Instead, use a microfiber drying towel, chamois, or a car dryer/blower.
These tools are gentle on the car’s surface and can prevent scratches. They absorb much water and quickly dry your car without leaving streaks or water spots. Start from the top and make your way down to ensure the most efficient drying process.
Regular and proper drying preserves the integrity of the paintwork, leaving it glossy and extending its life. It also provides an excellent opportunity to inspect your vehicle for any damages or areas that need attention.
Wax Your Car
Waxing is an integral part of maintaining your electric vehicle’s exterior. It gives your car a glossy finish and extra protection against external elements like UV rays, rain, snow, dust, and bird droppings that can harm the paint. Wax also fills in minute imperfections and scratches, enhancing the vehicle’s overall appearance.
It’s best to wax your car every three months or after every dozen car washes. Begin by ensuring your car is clean and dry. Gently apply a thin layer of wax using a foam applicator, moving in circular motions for even coverage.
Allow it to dry and haze, then buff it off with a microfiber cloth. Remember, too much wax can leave residue and cause streaks, so using less is better. With regular waxing, you will not only keep your vehicle looking pristine but also retain its value for longer.
Repair Scratches Promptly
Addressing scratches promptly is vital in maintaining your electric car’s overall appearance and preventing further damage. Scratches expose the underlying metal to the elements, leaving it vulnerable to rust and corrosion. If a scratch is light and only affects the clear coat, you can use products like scratch removers or clear coat pens to mend it.
These products are designed to blend into the existing coat and seal the scratch. A more comprehensive repair involving touch-up paint might be necessary for deeper scratches that have reached the paint or primer.
Consider professional help to ensure a proper and seamless repair in severe damage. Regular inspections help spot and attend to these scratches promptly, thus preserving your car’s aesthetic appeal and value.
Park in the Shade
Parking your electric car in the shade whenever possible can significantly contribute to maintaining its exterior. Exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods can cause the car’s paint to fade and lose its shine over time. Moreover, the harsh UV rays can lead to cracking and other damage to the car’s exterior surfaces such as the dashboard and upholstery.
Beyond the aesthetic implications, this can impact your vehicle’s resale value. Finding a shaded spot, using indoor parking facilities, or investing in a car cover to protect your car when parked outdoors is advisable.
If the shade isn’t available, a car sun shade can minimize heat build-up and protect the interior from damaging UV rays. This preventative step, though seemingly simple, can go a long way in preserving the appearance and value of your electric car.
Install Clear Car Protection Film
Installing a clear car protection film is another effective method for preserving your electric car’s exterior. This transparent, durable film adheres to the surface of your car, providing a protective layer against scratches, chips, and harmful UV rays. For Rivian electric car owners, it is advisable to seek out reputable Xpel clear car protection film installers for Rivian.
Xpel is known for its superior quality films that offer maximum durability and clarity, ensuring your Rivian maintains its pristine look. These films are precision cut to perfectly fit your vehicle’s contours, providing full coverage and seamless protection.
Choosing an installer with a proven track record ensures the film is applied correctly to avoid bubbles, peeling, or yellowing over time. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term payoff in protecting your investment and preserving your car’s resale value makes it a worthy investment.
In conclusion, the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your electric car’s exterior rely heavily on your maintenance efforts. Following these effective steps, you can keep your car looking as good as new and preserve its resale value. So, take action today, initiate a regular cleaning and maintenance routine, and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained vehicle.