Rust is the top and most common problem with an automobile’s body since it can work from the inside of your car and show up when it’s already too late. New cars mostly have excellent rust proofing applied to them during manufacturing. Unfortunately older units have none of this. So be sure to wipe water off especially after cleaning your car or after a rainy day. Road salt too can adversely hasten corrosion. Chips and dings from daily driving are also prime spots for moisture to penetrate the finish and into the metal. So be wary of down to the metal scratches.

The elements can also eat away at your car’s pristine finish. The sun’s UV rays can also damage the paint job of your car so better to park your vehicle somewhere shaded as much as possible. Don’t forget to give your car a good wax job. Think of it as sunscreen for your precious four wheels.

Another problem is of course, accidents – which is bound to happen sometime. When this happens, it is best to have a reputable mechanic look over your car. Make sure that whatever body shop you choose, it is highly accredited. Insist on using OEM parts when you get a quote and not cheap imported ones. You may save money at the moment but you are still putting yourself and your passengers at risk when you get the car back on the road. Inspect the repair job in different lighting situations as defects show themselves like so. A good shop allows its customers to inspect their work within a time period.

The daily exposure of your car to the world can also qualify for the list. Bird droppings are quite acidic and they tend to eat away at the finish. Tree sap can also take its toll on your car. Be very careful when cleaning them off. Hardened droppings and tree sap can scratch your car’s finish when carelessly scrubbed off. Oh, and there’s also your average jerk waiting and willing to key a large gash across your baby’s new paint job.