Maintaining matt car paint the right way

Vehicles with matt paint and matt wrap are popular. First only aftermarket by wrapping your car with a matt film but more and more car manufacturers now offer matt, silk matt or frozen paints as well. The matte effect of this particular paint is caused by an uneven structure of the surface, which appears matte because of light diffusion. If the wrong product is chosen, the surface can be polished, reducing the matt effect and making the lacquer appear glossy. But don't panic. Maintenance is absolutely no more difficult than that of a glossy lacquer. By using the right techniques and products, car matt paint can be kept in top condition.

Matt car paint care

Maintaining matt car paint requires special care to preserve this unique finish. A car with matt paint needs regular washing to prevent dirt from accumulating. If dirt accumulates on the paintwork for a longer period of time then it becomes more difficult to remove. This is because more pressure is needed to get rid of stubborn dirt, increasing the likelihood of wax scratches.

Always start with the rims first, using a separate bucket with some shampoo and a good rim brush. Then it is advised to start with a pre-wash with snow foam, followed by a rinse with a pressure washer to remove dirt and other abrasive particles. Then hand wash the car with a special shampoo, preferably a pH-neutral shampoo such as AUTOSOL Shampoo for matt paintwork, in combination with a microfibre wash mitt. Use the two bucket technique when washing and wash in straight lanes and not with circular motions, so that no eye-catching imperfections appear on the paintwork. Avoid products that create shine, such as wax or polishes. Sponges and chamois should better not be used. These are sure to cause paint damage.

To dry the car, use a good microfibre drying towel, dry the surface well using policy. A car that is not dried properly will irrevocably suffer from water/lime stains that mar the matt paintwork.

Damage to matt paintwork difficult to repair

Matt paint is more susceptible to damage. An incurred damage or scratch is more difficult to repair than in glossy-painted cars. Even polishing to remove minor damage quickly backfires.

Tips for maintaining matt car paintwork

Manual washing. Avoid car washes with hard brushes and aggressive detergents that can damage the paintwork.
Use special products. Avoid traditional wax, polishes, detailing clays and products that have a glossy effect.
Choose a pH-neutral shampoo. These shampoos do not affect the matte finish and help prevent staining.
Quickly remove insects and bird droppings. These can burn into the paintwork, so remove them immediately with a mild detergent.
Avoid abrasive products. Polishes, glazes and polishing pastes are not suitable for matt lacquer.
Use special cleaners for matte lacquer. There are special cleaners and sprays available specially designed for matt lacquers.
Dry the car carefully. Use a soft microfibre cloth or an air blower to avoid streaks.
Consider a matt lacquer sealer. A paint sealer can provide extra protection and make cleaning easier. Make sure the product is suitable for matte paint, such as AUTOSOL Nano Wax for matt paint.

What not to do when maintaining matt car paint

Do not use wax. Wax can cause shiny spots.
No polishes. These can damage the paintwork and create unwanted shine.
No detailing clay. This can damage the paint or cause shiny spots.
No products containing abrasion or wax. These can affect the matt finish.
No car wash. Avoid car washes with hard brushes and aggressive cleaning agents.