How Long Does the Paint from a 4S Shop Take to Fade?
3 Answers
It depends on the painting technique of the 4S shop. Generally, the paint won't fade easily after touch-up and can last for at least 3-5 years. Overview: Automotive painting refers to applying a layer of paint on the car's surface to protect it. Automotive paint is usually baking enamel. In car manufacturing plants, after the frame and body are welded, the next step is painting. Types include standard paint, metallic paint, and pearl paint. Function: Most automotive manufacturing materials are steel. Without the protection of a paint coating, the car's surface would inevitably rust over time due to exposure to wind and rain, which would affect the vehicle's lifespan. Besides providing excellent protection, the surface coating also enhances the car's aesthetic appeal, making it visually more attractive and showcasing its unique personality.
I had my car door repainted at the 4S dealership last year, and it's been nearly two years now. The color still looks quite fresh with no noticeable fading. But honestly, it really depends on how you use and maintain your car. My vehicle is mainly used for city commuting and is usually parked in a garage or underground parking space, avoiding direct sunlight and rain exposure. UV rays are the biggest enemy of car paint – if you frequently park outdoors under the sun, like in coastal areas or high-temperature southern regions, fading might become noticeable within just a year or two. The paint job from the 4S shop is of good quality, using original manufacturer formulas with added UV protection layers, making it more durable than those from roadside repair shops. However, I recommend regular car washing and waxing every two to three months to protect against dust and acid rain erosion. A friend's car that was always parked roadside showed yellowing around the side mirrors in less than a year, proving how crucial maintenance is. With proper care, maintaining the color for three to five years isn't a problem, but don't expect it to last forever. In short, take good care of your car's paint!
From an environmental perspective, the fading speed of paint applied at 4S shops is significantly influenced by external factors. In urban areas, the combined effects of air pollution and UV radiation accelerate paint oxidation and fading. Normally, 4S shops employ refined painting techniques and high-quality coatings, including UV-resistant additives, so their paint theoretically lasts longer than that from budget shops. However, in high-exposure environments—such as regions with intense winter sunlight in the north or humid southern areas—fading may begin within two to three years, especially with darker colors being more noticeable. Paint discoloration is also related to the vehicle's body material and paint thickness; metal parts are prone to micro-cracks due to temperature fluctuations, leading to faster fading. I often research this and believe the key is minimizing direct sunlight exposure—parking indoors or using a car cover whenever possible. Additionally, acidic rainwater during the rainy season can erode the surface, causing dullness within a year or two if left untreated. Regular paint inspections and timely waxing upon spotting issues can prolong its lifespan.
