Mechanical condition and vehicle appearance are the two prime factors in vehicle valuation as outlined in many online vehicle valuation sites, such as KelleyBlueBook.Com or Edmunds.com. The regular and ongoing investment of time and energy into vehicle paint maintenance can add value to your vehicle when it’s time to sell. For as little time as an hour and a few dollars worth of quality vehicle care products, you could add hundreds of dollars to the value of your vehicle.

Most vehicles today are painted at the factory with clear coat paint, a non-pigmented top coat paint that is applied over a colored base coat. Clear coat paint increases a vehicle’s paint durability, gloss and resistance to harmful environmental effects. But today’s finishes still need regular maintenance to look their best. Clear coat paints are subject to damage from several sources, including oxidation, which is a dull or hazy appearance caused by weathering from outdoor exposure; hazing, caused by minor to severe scratches in the paint from improper washing, wiping with an abrasive cloth or on a surface with contaminates; or even swirl marks caused by using too aggressive a wax or paint cleaner. Paint age and condition are major considerations in selecting the right products to enhance your paint finish.

3M Automotive Aftermarket Division has a helpful website, www.3M.com/automotive, which offers a step-by-step paint finishing system chart. Visitors use the chart to determine which products and processes work best depending upon the current condition of a vehicle’s paint surface. According to Mike Dulitz, marketing manager for 3M, “the best rule of thumb is to begin with the finest, or least abrasive, product that will accomplish the removal of surface imperfections and leave the desired finish. By starting with too aggressive a product, you may put additional swirl marks and minor scratches in the surface that will require extra time, steps, energy and products to remove”.

Generally speaking, a newer car with paint in good condition would require washing with a quality car wash soap formulated to effectively remove road grime and dirt without removing wax protection. 3M recommends that you avoid using dish washing or other harsh soaps, which are designed to cut grease and oils and will remove or reduce the life of your wax protection. After thorough drying with a soft, clean cloth to avoid scratching; wax the vehicle using a high quality liquid or paste wax. If you have avoided paste wax in the past because of the additional work and sweat it may require, consider 3M™ Perfect-It™ Show Car Paste Wax. It’s easy to apply, easy to remove and very durable.

For ongoing maintenance during the six to twelve months before your next wax job, consider a quick and easy maintenance product like 3M™ Perfect-It™ Gloss Enhancer. This product can be used on a clean and dry paint surface, or used on a car still wet from washing. If the vehicle is wet, simply spritz a small amount over a few panels of the car and dry with a clean, soft towel or cloth. 3M’s gloss enhancer will aid in streak-free drying and renew your finish with that just-waxed look.

A little elbow grease goes a long way in preserving your vehicle’s appearance and value. Enjoy it today and reap the benefits when you sell. It’s an investment worth making!

For more information about 3M car care products and recommended systems for multiple paint conditions, please visit 3M’s website, at www.3M.com/automotive, or call 877-MMM-CARS.