A good paint job can make the difference between a vehicle that turns heads and one that looks rundown. Your vehicle's paint does more than just create a smooth finish; it also protects the frame of your vehicle against corrosion.

Despite the important role that paint plays in protecting the integrity of your car, you probably don't give much thought to the many ways your paint could be damaged on a daily basis. There are some surprising elements that could compromise your car's paint, and you must be proactive in combating these elements if you want to avoid costly paint repairs in the future.

Splattered Bugs

It's inevitable that you will see splattered bugs on your vehicle after any long drive down the highway. Splattered bugs are more than just a disgusting eyesore; they pose a serious risk to the quality of your car's paint.

Most insect varieties are very acidic. When splattered on your car, the acid in bugs could etch the protective clear coat and make your paint more prone to chipping, It's important that you wash your vehicle frequently if you want to eliminate the threat of paint damaged caused by splattered bugs.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid can make contact with the exterior of your vehicle and cause serious paint damage. This is especially true if you have a leak in your brake fluid lines. Many brake fluids contain silicone components that can act as a paint thinner when coming into contact with your vehicle's exterior.

Over time, exposure to a silicone-based brake fluid can wear down the protective paint layers on your vehicle. You will need to have an auto body shop repair the existing damage, then address the leak in your brake lines to avoid ongoing paint damage caused by brake fluid exposure.

Fingerprints

Something as small as a fingerprint could be detrimental to the quality of your vehicle's paint. If you take a close look at your car, you will probably see a fine layer of dust covering the exterior surfaces.

Placing a finger or hand on your vehicle when this dirty layer is present can cause dirt particles to act as a type of sandpaper. The oils found on your skin can mix with dirt particles and help them become ground down into your vehicle's paint layer. This will mar the paint, leaving a lasting mark on your car.

Wipe down your vehicle often to eliminate fingerprints and dirt, and work with an auto body shop to keep your car's protective clear coat intact.