You’ve got a car that’s seen better days. It’s been sitting in the garage for months, and now it looks like you’re driving around with an old, rusty bucket on wheels.
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to remove oxidation from your paint job. But before we get into those methods, let’s talk about what causes oxidation in the first place.
Oxidation occurs when oxygen reacts with metal surfaces (like steel) or organic materials (like rubber). This reaction creates rust and other unsightly marks on the exterior of your vehicle.
There are many different ways to remove these pesky marks from your car so it can look as shiny as new again!
This article will help you get rid of that nasty rust and restore your car to its original beauty. You won’t believe what a difference it makes!
Table of Contents
Methods of Removing Oxidation from Car Paint
#1. Polishing
Use a compound that can remove oxidation from your car. There are two types of compounds that are widely used to remove oxidation.
A polishing compound is used for light to moderate oxidation.
You can use your hand or a buffer to apply the mixture.
A rubber compound, on the other hand, is used for level two to three oxidation. It is heavier, and knowledge using a buffer is essential. This is because it applies pressure on the damaged area that the hand cannot provide.
The application should be precise and remove it as soon as possible with a clean wet cloth.
#2. Baking Soda Scrub
Sodium bicarbonate is widely sold as baking soda and is found in most households.
It is a quick do it yourself method to remove oxidation from a car. It is one of the safest home remedies since it acts as gentle sandpaper. It also has no additives or chemicals.
Mix one tablespoon of baking soda in a glass of water and stir to form a thick paste. Using a soft toothbrush, spread the paste on the oxidized surface.
Lastly, wipe it clean with a soft wet cloth to give it a shiny finish.
#3. Sanding
Sometimes, a more aggressive tool is needed to level the surface. Micro-fine sandpaper ranging from 1000-3000grit can be utilized to remove contaminants that the compound did not.
It is also used to remove the light scratches on the shiny coat. Once the surface is sanded, buffing is done using a compound to remove the scratches caused by the sandpaper. Buffing is usually done with a machine.
#4. Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste is a home remedy that contains mild abrasives that can remove surface oxidation that has not penetrated too deep. Ensure that you don’t scrub too hard as it can lead to further damage to the paint.
The first step is to wash your car with soap to remove debris and dirt. Press a generous amount of toothpaste on a clean, soft microfiber cloth and gently rub it on the affected area in a circular motion.
Take another clean cloth and wipe the area to remove the paste. You should see results within seconds.
#5. Repainting Your Car
This is the last result if the oxidation has affected most of the car paint. It is not considered so much as repairing oxidation but rather starting afresh.
It the most viable solution for cars being modified or reinstated. It is expensive and sometimes not recommended as the paint job might surpass the value of the vehicle affected by acute oxidation levels.
Causes of Oxidation of Car Paint
#1. Harsh Car Cleaning Products
Coarse cleaning materials, or harsh solutions can remove oils found in paint. Abrasive cleaners remove the clear coat of the car.
When the sun gets into the exposed areas, there is a risk of corrosion occurring.
#2. Environmental Pollution
Contaminants like carbon pollution from exhaust fumes affect the clear polish on the car paint.
The carbon-based molecules that are invisible to the naked eye are coarse and jagged. They accumulate on the clear coat and expose the paint.
#3. Sunlight
Exposing your car to UV rays over time leads to fading of the car paint. Extreme sunlight affects the oils responsible for the shine on your car.
The UV rays heat the paint, and when it mixes with the oxygen in the atmosphere, it triggers a chemical reaction.
The result is oxidation that makes the paint oil dry and makes the car lose its shine.
#4. Age of the Vehicle and Type of Paint
Older vehicles, especially those not properly garaged, are prone to oxidation unless the car is taken extra care of. Paint that is not eco-friendly contributes to the oxidation of car paints.
Unlike waterborne paints that are heat resistant and offer corrosion protection, solvent-based paints produce more emissions.
Final Words
There are many ways to remove oxidation from car paint. If you’re someone who likes to do-it-yourself, the best way is with a clay bar kit and some rubbing compound.
Another option is using an orbital polisher with wool pads for light oxidation or foam pads for heavy oxidation.
The most important thing when removing oxidation from your vehicle’s exterior surface is being thorough and patient!
