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Getting the Dirt on Paint Protection

Like bears preparing for hibernation, a typical autumn day finds many of us getting our cars and trucks ready for the onslaught of the winter elements. Washing and waxing our vehicles has become almost as much of a fall tradition as the first kickoff of football season or family foray into a pumpkin patch.



What would you say if you could make polishing your car an every three-to-five year event, rather than an annual one Thereby freeing you up to toss the pigskin around, pick apples for a homemade pie, or jump into that pile of freshly raked leaves



Glenn Canady, president of 5 Star Technologies, Inc., makers of the 5 STAR SHINE (www.5starshine.com) patented paint polishing formula, answers these, as well as other frequently asked car care questions:



What types of external and environmental factors impact my vehicle's paint



If it's flying in the air or simply part of the environment, it's going to affect your car. Some of the most common culprits include the sun's UV rays, industrial fallout, acid rain, insects, brake dust, bird droppings and hard water mineral deposits. All of which, over time, can insidiously damage and destroy your car's finish.



Why is protecting my car's paint so important



Because our cars are an extension of ourselves, it's human nature to always want them to look good. Their shine and luster, as well as how clean we keep their interior, speaks volumes about us as well as our pride in our vehicles. More importantly, the car's paint needs to be protected to avoid damage caused by pollutants that can etch into the clear coat and cause permanent damage such as pitting and rust. Yet another goal is to enhance the vehicle's value in preparation for its inevitable trade-in or sale.



Should I buy the paint protection offered by my new car dealer



Car salesmen are trained to leverage your vulnerability in protecting and enhancing your new purchase. They'll typically push a cornucopia of dealer accessories and add-ons such as paint protection, fabric protection, undercoating, rust proofing, extended warranties, oversize wheels, and enhanced alarm services. All of these sound and look wonderful on the surface but also tend to carry hefty price tags. Some paint and appearance packages, for example, can cost more that $1,500.



An article on Motor Trend's Web site mentions that dealers may charge $400 for an interior or exterior protectant when a similar "treatment" can be purchased elsewhere for far less. And Kiplinger writer Mark Solheim reports in a May 2005 article that dealers typically promote aftermarket add-ons because they "earn fat commissions on them." Enough said.



Is waxing the best way to maintain my car's finish



If waxing your car every few weeks is a fun, therapeutic activity, then by all means, go for it. Understand, however, that certain types of waxes - especially carnuba - can soften and get sticky when exposed to heat, thereby attracting the very dust and pollutants you're trying to get rid of in the first place.



My patented two-step polish uses PTFE (the same substance that makes nonstick cookware so slippery) that actually bonds with the molecules of your paint for unbeatable shine and protection. It takes only an hour to apply; is safe on all paints, clear coats and fiberglass gel coats; and will last at least five years on a new car and three years on a used car with good paint. Me I'll take tossing the pigskin any day.



For more information on 5 STAR SHINE's innovative paint polishing system visit www.5starshine.com.

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