How to Repair Paint Damage Caused by Self-Cleaning Agents?
2 Answers
Self-cleaning agents are primarily used to remove stains from tires and rims. Most self-cleaning agents available on the market are highly alkaline, essentially falling into the category of caustic soda. Even when diluted to a ratio of 1:100, they remain strongly alkaline and highly corrosive. There have been numerous cases where using so-called "no-rub" self-cleaning agents for car washing has damaged the paint. These products can also pose significant risks to both human health and the vehicle during cleaning. Therefore, once self-cleaning agents damage car paint, it cannot be repaired, and they should never be used directly for car washing. Caution is strongly advised. Below is more relevant information: 1. Cleaning Performance: Cleaning performance alone does not determine the quality of a cleaning agent, as cleaning is just one function of such products. The key consideration is whether the cleaning agent can ensure that the surface being cleaned is not subjected to secondary damage. The correct approach is to choose safe, eco-friendly professional car wash and detailing products and avoid using corrosive alkaline cleaners or acidic cleaners containing harmful acids. 2. Self-Cleaning Agent Products: There are many self-cleaning agent products on the market today, many of which boast high cleaning power, no-rub application, no need for scrubbing, and efficiency, making them popular among some car wash and detailing shops. While self-cleaning agents can remove tough stains effectively, any chemical capable of such strong cleaning inevitably has some level of corrosiveness.
I previously saw many car owners at the dealership whose car paint was damaged by self-cleaning agents, typically due to strong acidic or alkaline cleaners corroding the paint surface. To fix it, the key is to assess the extent of the damage: if it's just slight discoloration or whitening, you can use automotive polishing paste to manually buff away the damaged layer—just gently rub it without applying too much force to avoid harming the primer. For more severe cases, like bubbling or peeling paint, don’t attempt DIY fixes; instead, take it to a professional repair shop for spot repainting or a full respray, as their equipment and paint materials are more reliable. I recommend testing a small area first to confirm no further damage before proceeding. For regular car cleaning, it’s best to use pH-neutral car wash soap to avoid similar mishaps—damaged paint not only looks bad but can also lead to rust. After repairs, apply wax regularly for protection and to extend the paint’s lifespan.
