Cars help us get from place to place, but they also serve us in many other ways. Our cars are an extension of our personality, and most of us try to keep them in good shape. This means keeping up with maintenance and regular cleaning.
Unfortunately, maintenance is expensive, and it’s even more costly when you try to make your car look its best. Swirl marks are a common eyesore for many auto enthusiasts, but you can prevent them from appearing with the right planning. Here are a few tips for preventing swirl marks on your car.
Know What Causes Swirl Marks So You Can Avoid Them
Contrary to their name, swirl marks form in any pattern, not just circles. They occur when microscopic scratches cut into your car’s finish on the layer of the clear coating.
Hand-drying with an abrasive towel is the most common cause of swirl marks. But other types of towels won’t prevent scratches if dust is on them. Dirt and debris from any water source can cut into your car’s surface.
Car washes are another source of swirl marks. Automated car washes that use brushes and cloth wipers might be too harsh, but doing the washing yourself won’t avoid causing marks if you use a dirty wash mitt.
Apply the Right Coating for Protection
If your car receives a strong coating on top of the paint, it helps keep the vehicle in pristine condition over the long term. There are four main types of coatings that protect your car’s finish: ceramic, wax, sealants, and paint protection film (also known as PPF or Clear Bra). However, misapplying these can lead to scratches and swirl marks on the vehicle’s finish.
Buffing can scratch up your surface when you use the wrong type of pad. Older wax paste is tough to apply, and if you try too hard to buff it out, the added pressure causes swirl marks to appear.
Use Less Force When Drying Your Car
If you use a clean and high-quality wash mitt, you should be able to avoid swirl marks, right? Well, if you use too much pressure, it actually increases the likelihood that scratching occurs.
A general rule to follow when drying off your car is to be as light as possible with pressure. Rinse off your car before a full wash to eliminate heavier dirt and debris. That way, you don’t need to apply extra pressure when washing with a mitt or other instrument.
If it’s possible, use a cordless leaf blower to dry off your car without touching it. If that isn’t available, a top-shelf microfiber cloth will do the trick, but remember to keep a soft touch when you’re wiping it down.
If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek out professional assistance to keep your luxury car in top shape. Of course, even if you follow all the tips for preventing swirl marks on your car, they might occur anyway, but at least you know that you did everything you could.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
