How can I protect my car against insects, bird droppings and road dirt?

During its lifetime, your car will be exposed to all kinds of dirt, grime and muck that could cause lasting damage to your paintwork if unprotected or left untreated. Tree sap, bird droppings, bugs and road dirt are just some of the substances likely to harm your paint, but there are several things you can do to avoid permanent stains, blemishes and paintwork degradation.

The simplest solution is to avoid parking under trees as this will reduce the amount of bird droppings and sap contacting your bodywork. Bird droppings dry to a crust on the surface and if left untreated, will dull the paintwork. Additionally, a lot what is presumed to be tree sap on a vehicle exterior is in fact a sugary substance called honeydew which is excreted by insects feeding on the tree sap.

Whatever foreign substances your paintwork is suffering from the golden rule is to clean them off as quickly as possible to limit any long lasting negative effects. Simoniz Insect & Dirt Remover will remove many of these harmful deposits; just spray on and leave for a few seconds (or longer if it’s a stubborn mark) and wipe off. The substance will lift off without damaging the paintwork.

Next, use a quality automotive bodywork shampoo such as Simoniz Shampoo & Wax. The specially developed shampoo will lift off dirt and trap it, keeping the harmful substances away from the surface of the vehicle, without re-depositing them or causing damage.

Finally, use a quality car wax like Simoniz Original Wax to create a protective barrier between your car’s exterior and the environment. Simoniz Original Wax is specially formulated to offer long lasting protection against dirt, grime and road debris, and will also give your paintwork a deep, glossy shine.

For tips on car care, view our blog and Help and Advice pages, which have lots of information on keeping your car clean, protected and shiny.