Does Turpentine Harm the Original Car Paint?
2 Answers
It has a certain impact, but as long as it is wiped off in time, it will be fine. Clean the dust on the car body promptly: Before, during, and after using the vehicle, promptly remove the dust on the car body to minimize the adsorption of dust by static electricity on the body. Wash promptly after rain: After rain, the rain stains on the car body will gradually shrink, increasing the concentration of acidic substances in the rainwater. If the rain stains are not rinsed off with clean water as soon as possible, over time, they will damage the surface paint. Clean corrosive scratches promptly: For some special, highly corrosive marks, they should be removed promptly. Special cleaning agents must be used for this purpose. Avoid using blades to scrape or gasoline to remove them, as this may harm the paint surface.
Turpentine can damage the original car paint primarily because it contains strong solvent components, such as mineral oils, which can dissolve the clear coat layer of the paint. Automotive paint typically consists of multiple layers, and once the outermost clear coat is corroded by turpentine, it may lose its gloss, develop white spots, or even undergo oxidation and discoloration. I've seen many cases in my repair work where owners used turpentine to clean stains, resulting in rough and bubbled paint surfaces that were time-consuming and costly to fix. It's recommended to use automotive-specific cleaners, such as pH-neutral car wash solutions, which are gentle and safe for the paint. Regular maintenance is essential—frequent washing and waxing can minimize damage. If turpentine is accidentally used, rinse immediately with clean water and dry it thoroughly to prevent prolonged solvent contact and further harm. Protecting your car's paint ensures durability and retains its value.
