Seven Types of Car Paint To Know About

Written by Formula 1 Collision on March 30, 2025. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

When you need to repaint your motor vehicle, you have key choices to make beyond the color. Understanding the types of car paint available can help you find one that perfectly fits your needs.

Our paint and body shops in Tucson, AZ, offer expertise with various kinds of car paints. Learn more about your available options below.

1. Acrylic

Acrylic paint is easy to apply and costs less than other selections. It dries quickly, which can be a major benefit in certain situations. Acrylic delivers a glossy finish that can bring new life and vibrancy to an older vehicle.

However, the trade-off is that it doesn’t last as long as most of the other selections available to you. Frequent touch-ups are necessary with acrylic.

2. Enamel

Enamel is an automotive paint that creates a hard, protective shell across the body of the vehicle.

You will have fewer color choices with enamel, and it can require baking in a heated oven for the best results. It doesn’t perform as well in locations with harsh weather, either.

3. Lacquer

Lacquer was more common with older vehicles from several decades ago. However, it’s rarely used today as it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as others. This is one of the types of car paint that requires several coats, which can increase the cost.

We might recommend lacquer when repainting vintage cars.

4. Matte

If you prefer a flat finish to a glossy one, matte is the best choice. This application includes a clear coat over the top that takes the light reflection out of the finish.

5. Metallic

If you want unique color options, metallic is a great choice. Metallic hides scratches and other blemishes well. This collection also includes pearl options that generate sparkle when exposed to sunlight, although not all metallic paints sparkle.

6. Urethane

Compared to other types of car paint, urethane is arguably the most durable. It delivers a long-lasting finish when applied properly. Our experts know how to expertly apply all three coats required for urethane paint.

It’s available in a wide range of colors that rarely fade in the sun—which is important in Tucson.

7. Water-Based

Water-based paints are some of the newest options for automotive applications. Water-based applications are versatile, as they work for a full repainting job or just touch-up work. They deliver vibrant colors and create an even finish.

However, the application requires the expertise of our professionals. We will ensure the paint is sealed correctly to deliver the longest-lasting protection from the weather.

At Formula 1 Collision Center, We Give Your Car’s Paint Job the Highest Level of Care

Making a choice among the different types of car paint might seem like a challenge, but our experts at Formula 1 Collision Center are ready to help. We’ll provide advice for finishes that meet your needs and fit our southern Arizona climate.

To learn more about our repainting work or our expertise in matching car paint, contact us today at (520) 369-4291.

Painting vs. Wrapping a Car: Which Is Best for You?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on June 30, 2024. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

If you’re wondering about painting vs. wrapping a car, both services offer positive points that can make it tough to choose between them. Which is best?

It depends on where you are in life, how much you want to spend, and how you want to feel when driving. There’s no wrong answer. There’s just the answer that works for you.

After you decide, call us. We’re one of the best Tucson auto body shops, and our services will have your car looking like a million bucks.

Read on to find the answer to, “Painting vs. wrapping a car: Which is best for you?”

Painting vs. Car Vinyl Wrap for a Car: The Details

Should you choose painting or wrapping for your prized car? We explore the details of car painting vs. wrapping below.

Painting Provides That Long-Term Gleam

Painting is easier now than ever before because of modern tools and database systems that professional auto shop painters use. You can create a showpiece without degrading your car’s performance, and all you need to do is take it to the right auto body paint shop.

Experienced painting technicians understand how the paint will affect the car’s resale value. A reputable paint shop will use a high-performance painting system that is newer and more precise than those used by other shops.

And don’t forget that you want to feel proud when you drive your car. You want to show off the care you put into it. A paint job lets you do this, and a top-notch body shop will be happy to tell you about popular car colors.

Auto Wrapping Benefits

When it comes to painting vs. wrapping a car, auto-wrapping benefits do exist. The car vinyl wrap process is much more cost-friendly and provides vehicle paint protection. That’s important because you want to ensure automotive paint durability, especially if you want to sell.

Wrapping consists of using vinyl decals instead of paint. The auto shop places the decals on the exterior of the vehicle.

Vinyl wrap maintenance includes washing your car and keeping it away from dirty areas.

The cost for this service is between $2,500 to $5,000 for a full wrap. If you’re on a budget, you can get partial wraps. A wrap removal runs around $500.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for Superior Vehicle Paint Protection

If you live in Tucson and want a car paint job that enhances its value and makes you feel happy to hit the road, contact Formula 1 Collision Center.

Our painting technicians remain current with training. We only use state-of-the-art equipment that allows us to match your car’s paint exactly. For example, we offer the premier waterborne paint system in North America.

We put our heart and soul into our work because we love cars as much as you do.

Wondering, “What does car detailing include?” If you want to learn about our paint jobs and other auto services, call us at 520-369-4291. We are happy to discuss, “Painting vs. wrapping a car: Which is best for you?”

Can Car Paint Be Matched Exactly?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on May 30, 2024. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

Whether your car’s paint job has taken a beating from the hot Tucson sun or a collision with another vehicle, you may be wondering how to repair the damaged paint. Whatever the cause of the problem, the best auto body shops in Tucson can help you answer, “Can car paint be matched exactly?”

Information To Keep in Mind About Matching Car Paint Exactly

The answer to “Can car paint be matched exactly?” is “yes” — as long as you take the proper steps to do so. Even a slightly different paint shade can create a noticeable blemish on your vehicle that hurts its appearance.

Here’s what you need to know about matching car paint exactly.

Get the Right Color Code for Your Tucson Car Paint Job

An exact match requires an exact color code based on a car’s make, model, and year. Color specialists use a database to locate standard paint colors and an optical tool called a spectrophotometer to measure a custom paint’s light intensity.

The color specialist cleans the area being measured and then performs several readings, eventually discovering an exact match for even the most hard-to-find paint, providing a positive answer to, “Can car paint be matched exactly?”

Current Technology Provides the Best Results

Modern technology plays a crucial role in the outcome of a car paint job. Technology like the spectrophotometer makes it possible for even people with colorblindness to develop exact car paint matches. As a result, there’s no reason to work with an auto shop that uses outdated methods like eyeballing colors — doing so prevents getting an exact match.

It Might Take More Than One Paint Color to Match Your Car Paint

Matching your car paint exactly might require mixing two or more paints instead of applying them separately. The brightness and darkness of the mix requires a keen attention to detail about issues like glossiness. As such, the body shop should have the right equipment to thoroughly mix several paint colors and create a completely blended paint to apply to your vehicle.

One Last Tip To Assure an Exact Match

Check out the paint booth to ensure it’s well-maintained. A clean booth means clean paint that preserves the exact color match. Pay attention to whether the techs seem rushed or take their time, as discovering an exact match and applying it requires precision and thoughtfulness. These points help ensure an answer that puts a smile on your face after asking, “Can car paint be matched exactly?”

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center in Tucson for All Your Car Paint Needs

Formula 1 Collision Center has earned a reputation for matching car paint by staying current with industry changes, maintaining a stellar work ethic, and showcasing a love of cars. We provide standard and custom-mixed colors that meet the needs of every road beauty that rolls into our shop. Whether dealing with a fender bender due to a road safety incident or faded paint, contact us today at 520-369-4291 to check out how we match car paints exactly.

How You Pick the Best Auto Body Repair Shop?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on January 5, 2024. Posted in Auto Body Painting, Auto Body Repair, Collision Repair.

Choosing the best auto body repair shop is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the quality, cost, and duration of the repairs your vehicle requires. In an industry rife with varying standards of service and expertise, it’s important to conduct thorough research to ensure your car is in capable hands. This blog will guide you through key factors to consider, such as reputation, certifications, warranty policies, and price estimates, to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also discuss the importance of seeking referrals, reading customer reviews, and understanding the types of services offered. With the right approach, you can find a repair shop that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, ensuring your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition both efficiently and effectively.

1. Understanding the Basics of Auto Body Repair

Auto body repair is a complex field that encompasses a wide range of services to restore a vehicle’s appearance and functionality after it has been damaged. This section aims to provide a foundational understanding of the various aspects of auto body repair, ensuring that vehicle owners are better equipped to make informed decisions when seeking repair services.

Types of Auto Body Repairs:

Dent Removal: One of the most common repair tasks. Dents can range from minor bumps to significant indentations and require different techniques like paintless dent repair (PDR) or more extensive panel work.
Paint Jobs: This includes scratch repair, paint touch-ups, or full vehicle repainting. Quality paint jobs not only enhance the vehicle’s appearance but also protect against rust and corrosion.
Frame Repair and Alignment: Essential for vehicles that have been in serious accidents. This involves straightening or replacing parts of the vehicle’s frame to ensure it meets safety standards.
Windshield and Glass Replacement: Addresses cracks or breaks in the vehicle’s glass, which are crucial for visibility and structural integrity.

Understanding Repair Processes:

Assessment and Estimate: The first step in auto body repair involves a thorough assessment of the damage and an estimate of the repair costs.
Disassembly and Reassembly: In some cases, parts of the vehicle may need to be disassembled to access damaged areas and then reassembled after repairs.
Body Filling, Sanding, and Painting: For dents and damages to the body, fillers are used to create a smooth surface, which is then sanded and painted to match the vehicle’s original appearance.

The Role of Technology in Auto Body Repair:

Computerized Measurement Tools: These are used for precise frame alignment and ensuring the structural integrity of the vehicle.
Advanced Painting Techniques: Modern auto body shops employ sophisticated painting techniques and computerized color matching to ensure a seamless finish.

Choosing the Right Repair Shop:

It’s important to select a repair shop that has the right tools, technology, and skilled technicians to handle your specific repair needs. Look for certifications, read reviews, and ask about their experience with your vehicle type.

Communication with Technicians:

A key aspect of auto body repair is clear communication with the repair technicians. Understanding the basics allows you to ask informed questions and understand the recommendations provided by the repair shop.

By grasping the basics of auto body repair, you become a more knowledgeable customer. This knowledge not only helps in ensuring that your vehicle receives the best possible care but also in understanding the scope and value of the work being done.

2. How to Evaluate a Repair Shop’s Reputation

The reputation of an auto body repair shop is a key indicator of the quality of service you can expect. This part of the blog will guide you on how to vet a repair shop’s reputation. We’ll talk about checking online reviews, seeking recommendations from friends and family, and researching local business ratings. Understanding how to interpret this information will help you find a trustworthy and reliable repair shop.

3. The Importance of Certifications and Training

In this section, we emphasize the significance of choosing a repair shop with certified technicians. Certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), are indicators of a technician’s knowledge and skill level. We’ll explore what these certifications mean and why they matter for the quality of the repairs your vehicle will receive.

4. Comparing Cost Estimates and Understanding Pricing

Navigating through cost estimates can be overwhelming. This part of the blog will provide insight into understanding and comparing repair estimates from different shops. We’ll discuss factors that influence the cost of repairs, such as labor rates, parts prices, and the extent of damage. This information will empower you to make a cost-effective decision without compromising on the quality of repairs.

5. Warranty and Guarantee Policies

Warranties and guarantees are crucial for protecting your investment in auto body repairs. This section will cover what you need to know about the warranty policies of repair shops. We’ll discuss the typical coverage offered, including what is covered under warranty and for how long. Understanding these policies can provide peace of mind and help in making a more informed decision when selecting a repair shop.

Ensuring Excellence in Auto Body Repair: Your Next Step with Formula 1 Collision Center

By understanding the basics of auto body repair, evaluating a shop’s reputation, acknowledging the importance of certifications and training, comparing pricing carefully, and considering warranty policies, you can make a well-informed decision. Remember, the goal is not just to repair the damage but to ensure that your vehicle is safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re in the Tucson area and in need of top-notch auto body repair services, consider Formula 1 Collision Center. With a team of skilled technicians, state-of-the-art equipment, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Formula 1 Collision Center stands out as a reliable choice for all your auto body repair needs. Whether it’s a minor dent or major collision damage, their expertise ensures your vehicle is in the best hands.

To learn more about their services or to schedule a repair, visit Formula 1 Collision Center in Tucson, where quality meets efficiency in auto body repair. Trust is key in auto body repair, and with the right information and approach, you can find a repair partner who earns that trust and delivers excellent results.

How Long Does Spray Paint Last on a Car?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on December 30, 2023. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

How long does spray paint last on a car? Whether you’re sprucing up an old beater or adding a vibrant new color to your luxury car, you might want to know about the longevity of the finish.

As the go-to car paint shop in Arizona, our team at Formula 1 Collision Center understands the importance of refreshing cars. Keep reading as our specialists cover the ins and outs of spray-painted coatings. If your car needs a repair, give us a call at 520-369-4291.

Temper Your Expectations

Don’t expect spritzes from a few spray cans to last more than a few years. While it can serve as an affordable, quick fix, you will likely save more in the long run by letting an expert handle it.

You may also run into a few snafus like:

Uneven coloring and splotchy finishes
Paint flaking over time
The potential onset of rust due to inadequate preparation or sealing
Possible vehicle damage from incompatible paint types or improper application techniques

Paint Quality Matters

If you still want to handle this task yourself, never skimp on the product. Bargain paints might seem like a steal, but they’re not worth the hassle.

Old paints are also a no-go. Unopened cans have a two to 10-year lifespan, depending on the type. Check the manufacturer’s expiration date and instructions to ensure you’re not setting yourself up for a disaster.

Spray Painting With Opened Cans

Once you’ve cracked open a can of paint, the clock starts ticking. A good rule of thumb is to halve the manufacturer’s shelf-life. If you want to preserve the remaining paint for future fixes, seal the can tightly and store it in a cool, dry place with zero UV exposure.

The Professionals Difference

How long does spray paint last on a car when experts apply it? Paint jobs can last 10 to 15 years with proper care, and they look uniformly smooth, with a sheen that at-home finishes struggle to emulate.

Auto shops do this by following an exhaustive process:

Inspection: Every job starts with a detailed assessment of the vehicle’s condition. This evaluation helps identify any potential rust spots, dents, or imperfections that could hamper the final finish.
Preparation: Experts sand the surface and remove the old finish to create an ideal canvas. They also apply a high-quality primer to ensure the paint adheres perfectly
Execution: Commercial-grade spray guns, combined with professional techniques, deliver an evenly distributed, consistent color throughout the vehicle. The final coat of paint provides the desired sheen.
Polishing: Once the layers dry, professionals buff the vehicle meticulously. This process brings out a gleaming, mirror-like finish that turns heads.

Leave Your Car Care to the Pros

How long does spray paint last on a car? Is a few years worth the potential headaches? Properly painting a car involves more than pushing the spray button; it’s a delicate dance of precision, patience, and professional know-how.

Call 520-369-4291 and watch our crew at Formula 1 Collision Center work their magic! Explore more of our blog and learn more about paint correction.

Eco-Friendly Car Paint: Navigating Sustainable Options

Written by Formula 1 Collision on November 30, 2023. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

When considering car paint options, most car owners probably don’t think much about the decision. After all, car paint is car paint—how different can they be?

The reality, however, reveals that some car paints are more eco-friendly than others. If you want to be more environmentally conscious, you have the option of eco-friendly car paints. With that in mind, the team at Formula 1 Collision Center has created with this guide on eco-friendly car paint options.

Contact our car paint shop in Arizona for any auto body repair and paint work you need!

Why Eco-Friendly Paint?

Traditional auto paint produces high amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the application process can emit these harmful chemicals into the air. Harmful solvents can then leak into the ground and water sources.

Manufacturers make eco-friendly paints without harmful VOCs with the goal of reducing car paint’s environmental impact. These kinds of paints not only prove beneficial for the environment but are also safer as they reduce chemical exposure.

Types of Eco-Friendly Car Paints

Below, we list some examples of common types of sustainable paint that we work with.

Water-based car paints use water as a solvent instead of harmful VOCs. You can also apply waterborne paint with less clearcoat.
UV-curable paints don’t use solvents to cure and instead use UV light to harden and cure paint. UV-curable automotive paint has very fast drying times and doesn’t emit VOCs into the air.
Powder paints also do not use solvents and instead use heat to cure. Technicians apply powder paint with electrostatic applicators to form a watertight and durable finish.
Low-VOC paints contain fewer amounts of harmful solvents than traditional car paints and so offer a compromise between performance and environmental friendliness.

Eco-Friendly Car Paint FAQ

Let’s explore some of the most common questions we receive about eco-friendly car paint options.

What Are the Benefits of Eco-Friendly Car Paints?

The main benefits of eco-friendly car paints include:

Fewer VOC emissions
Better air quality
Fewer health concerns
Faster application
Eco-friendly production line

Are There Performance Tradeoffs With Eco-Friendly Car Paints?

Eco-friendly paints widely perform the same as traditional paints. Modern paint technology has produced several eco-friendly paint options in the automotive industry that are just as durable and long-lasting as traditional paints.

Are Eco-Friendly Paints More Expensive?

Some eco-friendly automotive paint options cost more than traditional paints. However, the benefits and overall cost savings make eco-friendly paints a smart choice, even with the higher upfront cost price.

Are Traditional Car Paints Dangerous?

The chemicals in traditional car paints, such as ketones, alcohols, ammonia, and other harmful hydrocarbons, can be dangerous if ingested in large amounts. Car paints might leach toxic chemicals into the environment, which can cause health problems.

Auto Body Painting and Collision Repair

Read our blog to learn the answer to the question, “Does repainting devalue a car?” Formula 1 Collision Center is the auto body shop that Tucson trusts. Whether you need collision repair or want to explore eco-friendly car paint options, we’ve got you covered. Contact us online or call today at (520) 369-4291!

What Is Paint Correction?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on October 30, 2023. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

You may not notice the first or second scratch on your car. However, those flaws grow exponentially over time, making your car look more worn down than it should for how much you drive it.

What is paint correction, and is it the best solution? Formula 1 Collision Center’s team of auto body experts discuss the details below. They’re also happy to assist you from the car paint shop in Arizona or over the phone.

How Car Paint Degrades Over Time

While car paint may last up to 15 years, it usually develops visible flaws much earlier. Exposure to outdoor elements like sunlight, temperature changes, and moisture gradually degrade the vehicle’s top coat.

Washing, waxing, and polishing your vehicle slows this degradation. However, there aren’t many vehicle owners who keep up with these tasks on the to-do list enough to make a marked difference to the paintwork.

Types of Paint Damage That Correction Can Handle

Swirl marks: These marks occur due to improper washing and cleaning methods, such as wiping down a dry surface.
Scratches: Dirt, leaves, and dead bugs cause scratches along the car’s body.
Oxidation: Have you noticed your paint looking mottled and lighter in color? This happens when hot air corrodes the paint’s surface.
Chipping: Auto paint chips when hard objects strike the surface with force. Rocks and minor collisions cause paint to chip.

What Is Paint Correction?

What is paint correction’s role in making your car look new again? Paint correction from an experienced technician uses industry-leading products and technology to erase flaws. They’ll also apply a fresh coat of paint with a protective clear coat on top for immaculate results.

In short, paint correction provides a fresh cosmetic start without the costly expense of completely repainting the car. A detailer can make those distracting mottles, scratches, and chipped areas disappear so that you can maintain your car’s beauty with just a regular cleaning routine.

Why Do You Need Paint Correction from Professionals?

All types of car painting services require personal protective equipment and professional training. If you attempt to paint the vehicle yourself, you could inhale toxic fumes that damage your respiratory health. Professional detailers understand and prepare for these risks.

What if you don’t correct the paint damage? Will minor damage cause problems? Unfortunately, once there are minor cosmetic damages, they gradually expose the vehicle’s panels to corrosive outdoor elements as they expand and allow rust into the mix.

If you want to sell or trade your car in the future, buyers judge a car based on its appearance. Your car may run well, but the growing collection of scratches and oxidized patches won’t attract quality customers. In this case, paint correction also helps your vehicle make an excellent first impression and attract a higher market value.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for Corrective Services

Answering questions like, “What is paint correction?” is part of our service to you in Arizona. Formula 1 Collision Center loves helping customers make informed decisions, so whether you choose paintless dent repair or another cosmetic service, you can trust the quality of our work. Call 520-369-4291 today for an estimate!

Does Repainting a Car Devalue It?

Written by Formula 1 Collision on July 30, 2023. Posted in Auto Body Painting, Maintenance.

Does repainting a car devalue it on a trade-in or used vehicle market? To get the best deal for a car you sell, you have to factor in everything from the vehicle’s make to its exterior. So, if you’re considering a new color for your car, truck, or SUV, this is a legitimate concern.

As the best auto body shop in Tucson, AZ, Formula 1 Collision Center has over four decades of experience working with car owners to transform their vehicles. Here, they explain why even if you want to make your vehicle look amazing, changing car colors can affect its resale value. If you’d like to book a car paint job after reading below, the team would love to help!

Originality

Several factors determine whether repainting a car devalues it, including authenticity. You might think you’re giving your car a custom look. However, altering its original color will often affect its resale value.

One reason is that most car buyers prefer to be one of the first owners of the vehicle. If they purchase a pre-owned car, they’re more trusting if it appears in its original condition. Perhaps, this reassures them of less chance the owner has covered over an accident.

Also, changing a car’s color is a clear indicator that the vehicle has exchanged hands multiple times.

Production Colors

Do you have a popular car model in a generic color, yet that particular model has a small number of cars in a rare shade? Repainting that vehicle in the rare color could improve its resale value.

Bodywork

Sometimes, repainting a car requires specific bodywork repairs to ensure the new paint job looks good and lasts a long time. For example, a car with dents or dings in its bodywork would need sanding and dent repair before technicians can apply paint. Otherwise, your car’s new paint job could look patchy and unattractive.

If you’re trying to sell the car, improving the bodywork could be beneficial.

Warranties

When you buy a new car off a lot, you could inadvertently void its warranties by modifying the vehicle. That includes giving the car a new color. If so, you could be responsible for the costs to fix problems that a warranty would otherwise cover.

Vehicle Type

Has your car sustained damage to its original paint job from an accident? A custom paint job can repair it. However, you could dramatically devalue the vehicle if you choose the wrong color.

For example, flashy sports cars with bright colors have a higher resale value than those in neutral colors. SUVs and trucks in neutral tones have a better resale value than those in bold ones.

Turn to Formula 1 Collision Center for Your Vehicle’s Paint Job

So, does repainting a car devalue it? It can, but Formula 1 Collision Center still strives for perfection on every custom paint job project in Tucson, AZ. Our crew of certified car refinish technicians can handle anything, thanks to multiple certifications to provide top-tier car paint color applications.

Find out more about our high-performance auto-coating systems for an immaculate finish–request an appointment with Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291 today!

Does Road Salt Damage Car Paint: What You Need to Know

Written by Formula 1 Collision on January 30, 2023. Posted in Auto Body Painting.

Tucson’s best auto body shop, the Formula 1 Collision Center, can answer a question on many motorists’ minds: “Does road salt damage car paint?”

Many residents of states in the northern United States have decades of experience with snowy roads and rock salt. Tucson, AZ, has more sunshine and less snow than most of the country, but it gets cold enough that you might have to deal with snowy roads from time to time.

Salt on Tucson Roads

The Arizona Department of Transportation uses deicing salt on major roadways, so if you drive in the state from the late fall to the early spring, you might encounter salt on the roads. Arizonan motorists, particularly those who leave colder climes for relief from the cold in the winter months, should keep the question in mind: “Does road salt damage car paint?”

How Road Salt Affects Car Paint

Road salt can accelerate the progression of rust on metallic car surfaces, including the car’s body. Metal components on the underside are prone to rust damage.

Rust forms when oxygen in the air combines with iron molecules in steel, producing red, flaky iron oxide. Salt makes it easier for oxygen and iron to exchange electrons, which encourages ions to form.

How Does Salt Get on My Car?

Other vehicles around you will kick up salt as they drive over salted stretches of road, which splatter the hood and side panels. Your tires will kick up salt as you drive, sending saltwater onto the surfaces on the underside of your car. In deep snow, your car might come into direct contact with the snow surface.

The Long-Term Effects of Salt

As rust eats away at the metal parts of your car, it will weaken the car’s protection against moisture, causing rust to spread. Holes in the car’s body hurt fuel efficiency.

Rust can damage the exhaust system, wheels, brakes, and other essential parts of the car.

Protecting Your Car from Road Salt

The best ways to keep your car from rusting are to limit your car’s exposure to salt and moisture and to prevent saltwater from remaining on the car’s surface after exposure to corrosive salt on the roads. Take the following precautions to reduce the likelihood of salt damaging your vehicle:

Store your car in a warm garage when you are not driving it.
Have your car washed to remove salt after contact with salt water.
Replace rusted body panels and car parts to slow the spread of rust.
Wax your car in the fall or add a rust-resistant coating to its surface to provide a layer of protection.

Fix Winter Car Damage in Tucson, AZ, at Formula 1 Collision Center

Formula 1 Collision Center is the leader in Tuscon, AZ, car repair. Call us at 520 369-4291 if you still have questions about protecting your car, such as, “Does road salt damage car paint?” Our professionals can also help you determine what kind of custom paint job to get for your vehicle.

How to Avoid Car Damage from Road Debris

Written by Formula 1 Collision on August 30, 2022. Posted in Auto Detailing, Auto Body Painting, Auto Body Repair.

Driving already comes with risks; adding road debris into the equation makes driving much more dangerous. Fortunately, the driving experts at Formula 1 Collision Center are here to teach you how to prevent car damage from road debris, so you and your family stay safe on your next road trip or weekend excursion.

Formula 1 Collision Center is one of Tucson, AZ’s leading collision repair and auto body refinishing companies. Our team has helped Tucson residents fix and maintain their motor vehicles for over 40 years, giving us the experience and expertise to handle all your collision repair needs. If you need an expert auto body shop in Tucson that always makes you its number one priority contact, Formula 1 Collision Center.

Three Tips on Preventing Car Damage from Road Debris

1. Stay Alert

Road debris accidents can occur at any time. One minute you’re singing along to your favorite tune, and the next, a wood block suddenly falls out of a truck and smashes into your front window.

Unfortunately, situations like this happen regularly and can cause serious injuries, severe damage, and even death. That’s why it’s crucial to stay alert and keep a lookout for potential road hazards while behind the wheel.

Staying alert while driving will help you see road debris before it becomes a major issue, allowing you to avoid it at the last minute. It’s an essential part of driving and will make your next family road trip much safer.

2. Don’t Tailgate

Crowding the car ahead of you is often called tailgating. Although tailgating might seem benign, it’s extremely dangerous and often leads to serious accidents.

Maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the ahead car will give you enough time to react if the driver suddenly slams on their breaks or tries to avoid road debris. It’s best to maintain at least a car’s length between vehicles just in case the car comes to a screeching halt.

3. Avoid Sharp Turns and Don’t Speed

Avoiding sharp turns and maintaining a safe speed is one of the best ways to prevent severe car damage from road debris. Turning sharply or abruptly will likely cause you to lose control of your vehicle and potentially create an accident. However, maintaining a safe speed (within the speed limit) and calmly turning your car or truck will help you avoid road debris safely without putting other drivers at risk.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center for High-quality Auto Body Repair and Refinishing Services

If you experience car damage from road debris and need professional auto body repair, contact Formula 1 Collision Center. Our team will have your car as good as new again without exceeding your financial means. Whether you need auto body refinishing or want to learn why you should not DIY body repair, Formula 1 Collision Center is here to help.

Contact Formula 1 Collision Center at (520) 369-4291 and see what our team can do for you today!