Everyone wants to be outside when the weather gets warm, even the Uh-Ohs! Whether you’re driving to vacation spots or the beach, or just using your car a lot in the sun and heat, its exterior can get caked in dirt, dust, pollen, and grime before you know it. Don’t panic—just check out these car care maintenance tips so the paint job will continue looking refreshed all season long.

## 6 Warm Weather Car Care Tips

Check out these seasonal car tips to wash and detail your car effectively and maintain the look of its affordable and convenient [paint job](https://www.maaco.com/services/). 
## 1. Use a Car Wash Solution

A cleaning formula specifically made for vehicles is best to maintain your vehicle’s protective coating. Unfortunately, many people grab their regular dishwashing liquid, pour it into a bucket, and add water. Detergents strip away wax coatings that protect your car’s finish, leaving it susceptible to scratches, nicks, and stains.

Regular trips through a car wash will keep your vehicle clean quickly and efficiently. Make sure to wait at least 90 days after any [body work](https://www.maaco.com/services/collision-repair/) or paint work to prevent voiding the [warranty](https://www.maaco.com/warranty-policy/).

Washing your car is also a terrific way to remove unwanted contaminants that may be damaging your finish such as tree sap, bird droppings, or annoying bugs and insects. If you plan to clean your car yourself, it’s recommended to hand wash your car twice a month with a mild automotive detergent. Use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface of the paint. This is also an opportunity to rinse the undercarriage of your car to remove dirt, salt, or other chemicals that promote rust.

## 2. Apply Acid-Free Tire Cleaner

Use a tire cleaner without acid to effectively clean dirty tires and remove caked-on brake dust from wheels. Non-acid products from any retail store or car maintenance shop help bare alloy wheels resist oxidation reactions like rust. These products are beneficial for wheels painted with color or clear coatings.
## 3. Hand Dry After Washing

Don’t let your car air dry after a wash, as leftover minerals and dirt will remain on your car’s surface once the water has evaporated. Instead, dry the surface with micro cloths or a rubber-blade squeegee.
## 4. Wax On, Wax Off

Proper car paint care requires a regular application of a clear coat of wax. Wax is essential and will wear off after a few weeks in the hot sun and warm rains. Use paste wax or the liquid variety to effectively cover minor scratches and stains before they eat away at your paint.
## 5. Don’t Forget the Glass

After you’ve cleaned the rest of your car’s exterior, clean the glass to eliminate excess grime and dirt. Use a cleaning product without ammonia to avoid streaks. An ammonia-based product inside your car may damage vinyl upholstery and your instrument panel. Finish buffing the glass with a microfiber towel.

## 6. Consider a Fresh Paint Job

Another way to protect your vehicle’s exterior is to bring it to Maaco for a fresh paint job. Our technicians apply specialty paint products to help protect your car from the effects of the sun in several ways:

- Protects exterior from UV rays
- Protects base paint with a clear coat
- Prevents oxidation
- Enhances reflectivity
- Reduces paint damage

A Maaco paint job goes beyond just improving the appearance of your car; it serves as a crucial line of defense against the damaging effects of the sun. By using high-quality UV-resistant paints and clear coats, Maaco helps protect your car's paint from fading, oxidation, and other sun-induced damage. With proper care and maintenance, a Maaco paint job can keep your car's exterior looking refreshed and revived for years to come.

## Maintenance 

Whenever you wash your car, do a quick inspection for scratches, dings, or chips. Addressing these issues promptly by having them repaired prevents [rust and further damage](https://www.maaco.com/services/damage-repair/rust/). You can also protect your vehicle further by applying wax and sealant to its surface after a wash.

Paint scratches occur when someone or something grazes your car, while chips occur when tires crush gravel or stones and send them flying into the vehicle’s painted surface. Damage, like paint oxidation, occurs over time and often in response to sun exposure. You’ll notice oxidation when a large area of your car’s surface shows off-white, unattractive blotches.

If you discover more extensive dings, scratches, or rust damage, [contact Maaco for a free and convenient online estimate](https://www.maaco.com/online-estimator/) and professional car paint maintenance tips. 

[Find your local Maaco shop today!](https://www.maaco.com/locations/)

Blog - Wash a Car

Car Cleaning Tips

Everyone wants to be outside when the weather gets warm, even the Uh-Ohs! Whether you’re driving to vacation spots or the beach, or just using your car a lot in the sun and heat, its exterior can get caked in dirt, dust, pollen, and grime before you know it. Don’t panic—just check out these car care maintenance tips so the paint job will continue looking refreshed all season long.

This week marks a major milestone for Joe Houghton, owner of Maaco West Springfield, Massachussets. In addition to celebrating his birthday, it is also his 34th anniversary of being a Maaco franchisee. 

Joe is an incredible franchisee and an enduring source of positivity for the brand and his immediate shop team. 

As a veteran himself, Joe has selflessly devoted his free time to supporting other veterans in his community, such as [refurbishing a veteran's vandalized car](https://www.bodyshopbusiness.com/maaco-franchisee-helps-army-veteran/). Most recently, [Joe hosted a veteran coat distribution drive](https://www.aftermarketmatters.com/collision-repair/body-shop-hosts-veteran-coat-distribution-drive/) for military members and their families. 

34th Maaco Anniversary - Joe Houghton

Auto Body Repair, Car Paint Shop, Collision Repair Center, and Auto Body Shop

Honoring a Maaco Legend

## Happy Birthday & 34th Maacoversary to Joe Houghton, [West Springfield, Massachusetts](https://www.maaco.com/locations/ma/west-springfield-11269/)

This week, Joe Houghton, veteran and owner of Maaco West Springfield, which opened in 1990, is celebrating his birthday and his 34th year in the Maaco franchise network!

## Gold Certification
A gold certified Maaco center is dedicated to meeting all brand standards set by Maaco. These centers primarily cater to traditional retail customers seeking vehicle painting or minor cosmetic repairs such as dents, dings, and scratches. The gold certification signifies a commitment to providing gold-star service to every customer who walks through the door.

## Platinum Certification
A platinum certification allows Maaco centers to participate in the [Driven Fleet program](https://www.maaco.com/services/fleet-industrial-services/), servicing national fleet accounts and performing insurance work. This tier of certification showcases a center’s ability to handle a broad range of services and to cater a wide array of customer needs. 

## Diamond Certification
The diamond certification is the pinnacle of achievement for Maaco certifications. A diamond certified center not only meets all the requirements for gold and platinum certifications but also has the necessary training and equipment to participate in [DRP (direct repair programs)](https://www.maaco.com/services/insurance-claim-drp/) provided through customer insurance companies. Shops with this certification expertly combine convenience for the customer with quality workmanship. This tier exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in service and capability.

## Manufacturer and Third-Party Certifications
In addition to Maaco’s auto body and paint certifications, some centers may hold OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and third-party certifications*. These accreditations reflect compliance with the requirements set forth by each manufacturer and emphasize an adherence to industry best practices. The local owner is responsible for maintaining the necessary criteria to keep their status. 

**These achievements do not provide additional guarantees or [warranties](https://www.maaco.com/warranty-policy/) above and beyond those already established by Maaco.*

The list below provides a glimpse into just some of the excellence your local Maaco may offer.

•	__Assured Performance:__ This signifies that the Maaco center follows best practices in collision repair, aligning with the standards of leading industry manufacturers. An Assured Performance certification shows a commitment to quality repairs, manufacturer specifications, and customer care.

•	__ASE Certification:__ The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certifies individual technicians, ensuring they are adequately trained to deliver satisfactory repairs. An ASE certification covers mechanical and cosmetic aspects, indicating that technicians excel in auto paint, dents and ding repair, and other specialized categories. This status requires a minimum of two years of professional work experience.

•	__I-CAR Platinum Class:__ I-CAR classifications are the highest designation that an auto collision repair business can obtain. The Platinum Class is granted to individuals who have completed the highest levels of I-CAR training. To maintain this status, local owners must undergo continuous education to stay current with the latest techniques and safety procedures, highlighting the owner’s dedication to improvement and expertise.

__Win with Maaco Today!__
Maaco certified centers set the bar high in the auto painting and collision repair industry. When choosing a Maaco center, customers can trust that their vehicle will be serviced by skilled professionals dedicated to delivering top-notch quality and craftsmanship. 

To find your local center, explore their certifications, and book your Maacover today, [visit their shop page](https://www.maaco.com/locations/) and experience the assurance of unparalleled service.


Diamond Certified Image

Maaco Certifications: Elevating Auto Repair Standards

When it comes to [auto painting](https://www.maaco.com/services/auto-painting/), [body shop repairs](https://www.maaco.com/services/collision-repair/), and inevitable vehicle Uh-Ohs, you can trust your locally owned and operated Maaco to complete the job and meet the high standards you deserve. Our [Maaco certified centers](https://www.maaco.com/about/certifications/) stand out as the “best of the best” with their commitment to operational excellence. All certified centers must pass a rigorous certification process annually that includes a comprehensive review of their business and repair services. 

In this blog, we will explore the different levels of Maaco and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) certifications that give Maaco centers their esteemed and credible status. 


## Maaco’s Online Estimator Tool: A First Step to Transform Your Vehicle 
Maaco’s OET is one of your gateways to a hassle-free and convenient vehicle makeover. To kickstart the process, visit the Maaco website and take advantage of a [free online estimate](https://www.maaco.com/online-estimator/) today. This quick and seamless process allows you to gain an initial understanding of the potential costs involved in refreshing your vehicle.  

## Personalized Experience from Local Experts

Once you have received your preliminary estimate, a local Maaco shop technician will thoroughly review all the details you have provided. This approach ensures that any specific needs and requirements are taken into consideration, laying the groundwork for a tailored and precise repair or refresh experience.   

## Pricing Transparency
Your online estimate will give you an initial understanding of what to expect. It’s important to note that all pricing is subject to change during onsite review by our local experts. This step guarantees transparency and accuracy, ensuring final pricing will align with the specific needs of your vehicle.

## Ask Questions

Our local pros are here to help! Any questions? Just ask away. Before finalizing your estimate, take the opportunity to learn more about [paint types](https://www.maaco.com/services/auto-painting/), [explore financing options](https://www.maaco.com/about/maaco-credit-card/), and any [additional services](https://www.maaco.com/services/) you may need. 

*Financing options are available for participating US locations only.

## Schedule the Date to Make it Great!
Once pricing details are finalized and your questions are addressed, it’s time to [schedule the work!](https://www.maaco.com/locations/) Your local experts will advise on an accurate turnaround time for your Maacover. This ensures you can plan accordingly and have a clear timeline for when your vehicle will be ready for pick-up, fully restored, and refreshed.

Before trusting Maaco to transform your ride, knowing the convenient process to receive a [free online estimate](https://www.maaco.com/online-estimator/) is crucial to quickly getting your refreshed ride back on the road. By leaning into the benefits of our online estimator listed above and trusting the expertise of your locally owned and operated Maaco, you can embark on your refresh or repair journey well-informed and confident in the expected result. 

Visit your [local Maaco body shop](https://www.maaco.com/locations/) today to start your vehicle’s transformation!


Jeep Photo

Know Before Your Maacover: Understanding Maaco’s OET Process

Is your ride in need of a refresh? Our body shop technicians and paint pros are here to help! Before diving into the Maaco experience, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various ways you can transact with Maaco, and the step-by-step processes involved. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the key aspects of Maaco’s Online Estimating Tool (OET), ensuring you are well-informed before making any decisions about your vehicle’s paint or collision needs.

## Resolutions for a Damaged Vehicle Solution
The year is winding down and a new one is already shining bright on the horizon. “Out with the old, in with the new,” is a commonplace phrase used around this New Year season. Whether you’re implementing a new resolution, refreshing your vehicle with a fresh paint job, or dealing with the dents and dings that life has left behind, there are plenty of ways to prepare your ride for the New Year.

## Turn This Year's Uh-Ohs into Next Year's Oh-Yeahs
[With easy and affordable packages](https://www.maaco.com/services/auto-painting/), there’s no better time to get your dented, damaged, or dinged vehicle looking like new again.

- [Shine bright this year:](https://www.maaco.com/services/headlight-restoration/) Did you know Maaco offers headlight restoration? If your headlights have dimmed or cracked over the years, it’s time for a fix! This process is relatively inexpensive but requires careful bulb replacement to ensure oils from your hands don’t impair the headlight’s performance.

- __Vehicle body goals:__ Everyone has personal body goals for the new year, but what about your vehicle’s body? Repair your dents and dings with easy, affordable, and reliable collision repair services.

- __Paint the town red:__ While you’re painting the town red celebrating, we’ll be painting anything that comes through our shop, even oversized equipment and trucks. Whether it’s for work or pleasure, we can paint your tractors, semis, or trailers and bring them back to life with protection from the elements. · Paintless and painless dent repair: With [paintless dent repair (PDR)](https://www.maaco.com/services/paintless-dent-repair/), restoring your vehicle is as painless as can be! This method uses a special tool to pull dents out of the vehicle surface without damaging the overall paint. Dents and dings are no match for our experts! Available at participating locations only.

- __Resolutions that last:__ Resolutions don’t last forever, but our [warranty on all structural repairs does](https://www.maaco.com/warranty-policy/)! All materials used in the repair of structural panels are warranted for as long as you own the vehicle.

## Specialized Services for the Nice List
If the holiday uh-ohs hit extra hard or your vehicle requires a specialized service to be refreshed for the New Year, we’re here to help! 

- __Rest easy with a new spray bed lining:__ If your holiday plans include extended travel with lots of luggage, it may be worth refreshing the bed of your truck for a consistent, durable, and protected exterior coating. Spray bed liners are available at participating locations only so please [contact your local shop](https://www.maaco.com/locations/) for more details.

- __Lease the troubles to us:__ Returning a leased vehicle can be an unwelcome task during the busy holiday season. Stop by a local Maaco and let our quality-assured team of pros help you maximize the value of your leased vehicle with easy and affordable repairs.

- [Fleet and industrial services:](https://www.maaco.com/services/fleet-industrial-services/) Our certified centers are here to offer national or local fleets everything they need to get refreshed for the new year. From rebranding to accident management, give yourself the gift of corporate oversight, flexible billing, and repairs backed by a nationwide warranty.

Resolutions and quality work take time! If you need services such as headlight restoration, vehicle dents and dings repair, lease car assistance, or more, be sure to schedule an appointment at a Maaco location near you. We’re ready to help you cruise into the New Year and see the Upside of Uh-Ohs.

Resolutions for a Damaged Vehicle Solution

The year is winding down and a new one is already shining bright on the horizon. “Out with the old, in with the new,” is a commonplace phrase used around this New Year season. Whether you’re implementing a new resolution, refreshing your vehicle with a fresh paint job, or dealing with the dents and dings that life has left behind, there are plenty of ways to prepare your ride for the New Year.

## How to Prevent Car Door Dings and Dents: 8 Tips
Nothing diminishes your car’s aesthetic like the sudden appearance of a door ding or dent. It’s an issue that can happen to anyone anytime—whether you’re parked at the grocery store or making a quick stop at the convenience store.

The good news? Most dings and dents are preventable. You take pride in your vehicle’s appearance and deserve to keep it looking its best. Our guide will show you how to prevent door dings and ensure you know the steps to take if one occurs despite your best efforts. And for those unexpected dings and dents, remember that participating Maaco shops stand ready with affordable [paintless dent repair solutions](https://www.maaco.com/blog/how-does-paintless-dent-repair-work/) you can rely on. 

## 8 Car Door Dent Prevention Tips
If you want to learn how to avoid door dings, you’ve come to the right place. While door dings and dents aren’t always preventable, taking extra precautions can reduce the likelihood of your car being damaged. Here are eight car door dent prevention tips to help you maintain the flawless look of your vehicle. 

### 1. Park Away from Other Vehicles 
One of the best ways to prevent door dings is by being mindful of where you park when making daily commutes, a grocery store run, and everything in between. 
Find a spot that minimizes the chances of accidental dings—parking at the end of a row away from other vehicles can reduce the risk of your car being in the path of other car doors, shopping carts, and other common culprits. 

### 2. Park on the Passenger Side of Other Vehicles
This car door dent prevention tactic relies on the fact that passenger doors are less frequently used than driver-side doors, reducing the risk of someone flinging open their door into yours. It’s a simple yet effective method to decrease the likelihood of a dent.

### 3. Watch Out for Curbs and Obstacles 
Static objects can just as easily ding your car. When parking or maneuvering around corners and curbs, ensure you have ample room to open your doors without hitting any surrounding obstructions, which can be just as damaging as another vehicle. Some obstacles you should watch for include curbs, signs, light posts, walls, and bushes. 

### 4. Never Take Up Multiple Parking Spaces
Misaligned parking is an invitation for trouble. While some drivers choose to take up two or more spots to prevent door dings, you may be more likely to anger other drivers, risking intentional damage. By parking squarely within your designated spot, you show courtesy to other drivers, significantly lessening the chance of door-to-door contact.

### 5. Avoid Parking Near Neglected Vehicles and Larger Vehicle Classes 
Larger vehicles, like SUVs and trucks, have heavier doors that can cause more significant damage. Similarly, cars that appear neglected may indicate an owner less concerned with dings, so give these vehicles a wide berth when searching for an ideal parking space. 

### 6. Park Near More Expensive or Smaller Vehicles 
Smaller cars have less door surface area to swing into yours, and owners of higher-end cars are typically more cautious with their doors. Positioning your vehicle beside these cars is a good strategy and will help safeguard your car against accidental damage. 

### 7. Use Parking Sensors or Cameras
Technology is a valuable ally in learning how to prevent door dings. Sensors and cameras can help you navigate tight spots and park more precisely, informing you of the proximity to potential door-dinging hazards. Additionally, some cameras continue to capture nearby motion after you leave. If someone hits your vehicle, your vehicle may be capable of capturing footage that could help you make an insurance claim.

### 8. Park in Covered Areas When Possible
Enclosed parking is the gold standard for car door dent prevention. It shields your car from hail, snow, and storms and provides a controlled environment that's generally less prone to the chaos of outdoor public parking spaces.

## What to Do if Your Door is Dented or Dinged
Despite your best efforts, sometimes knowing how to prevent door dings and taking extra precautions isn’t enough. Fortunately, solutions are available if you find yourself with this common but frustrating issue.

Participating Maaco locations offer a swift and efficient [paintless dent repair service](https://www.maaco.com/services/paintless-dent-repair/) (available at participating locations) that will have your car looking as good as new without breaking the bank. You can even [use our online estimator](https://www.maaco.com/online-estimator/) to see how much you’ll save with Maaco. If you’ve suffered a door ding, don’t wait — [Find a Maaco location near you](https://www.maaco.com/locations/) and schedule an appointment today. 

How to Prevent Door Dings

How to Prevent Car Door Dings and Dents: 8 Tips

Nothing diminishes your car’s aesthetic like the sudden appearance of a door ding or dent. It’s an issue that can happen to anyone anytime—whether you’re parked at the grocery store or making a quick stop at the convenience store.

## Dents, Dings, and Deals?! Oh My!
With Black Friday, one of retail’s biggest holidays, quickly approaching, it is no surprise that roads and parking lots may feel more congested. An increased number of drivers on the road, racing to snag the best retail discount can also lead to an increased number of accidents, dents, or dings while you’re out and about.  A little precaution can go a long way towards safeguarding yourself and your vehicle during your holiday shopping. 

## The Numbers
Some retail deals are too good to resist, and we don’t blame you! So, if you decide to venture out for Black Friday shopping, what are the numbers you’re up against?

Claims data from [Progressive Insurance](https://progressive.mediaroom.com/2015-11-23-New-Data-from-Progressive-R-Insurance-Shows-Spike-in-Thanksgiving-Week-Wrecks) revealed the following numbers when compared to data from the two weeks before the holidays and the two weeks following the holiday week:

- 25% increase in vehicle accidents on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving
  - 20% increase in Thanksgiving night vehicle accidents
- 31% of these were specific to parking
  - 34% increase in Black Friday vehicle accidents
- 31% of these accidents were also specific to parking or backing up

## Why the Rush?
Numerous factors contribute to these increased accident rates such as distracted driving, fatigued driving, or even aggressive driving. 

- __Distracted driving:__ Whether you’re downloading that exclusive limited time offer coupon or using your cellphone as GPS to navigate to the best deals, all types of cellphone usage while driving can lead to increased accidents on the road. Download any promotional or directional material you may need in advance to ensure you arrive safely and soundly at your destination.
- __Fatigued driving:__ From getting up early to staying up late or traveling far over the holidays, fatigue can be a major problem on the roads. Tired drivers will be less alert, leading to an increased chance of accidental dings or dents while parking and opening and closing car doors. 
- __Aggressive driving:__ Black Friday has come to be known for not only its deals but also the occasional customer brawl. It’s no surprise that this aggressive behavior can also be a contributing factor to more accidents on the road. Speeding, tailgating, and darting through crowded parking lots are all ill-advised actions that can have severe consequences.

## Bumper Damage Prevention and Navigating the Uh-Ohs:
In the chaos of Black Friday shopping, bumper damage is another common concern. To avoid it, be extra cautious while parking and consider the following to help you complete your shopping ding, dent, and paint scratch-free:

- __Park away from the entrance:__ Choose a spot farther from the entrance to minimize the risk of bumper damage from crowded areas and stray shopping carts.
- __Double-check your surroundings:__ Use your mirrors and be attentive to your surroundings to prevent collisions with absentminded pedestrians or vehicles cutting through the parking lot. With additional traffic expected on the roads, keep an extra watchful eye on the road ahead for any unexpected obstacles or aggressive drivers.
- __Park head-on:__ Opt for head-on parking to increase visibility and reduce the chance of accidental scratches and dents from adjacent vehicles.

If your vehicle didn’t make it out of Black Friday unscathed, we’re here to help! With services spanning auto painting, collision repair, headlight restoration, and [paintless dent repair](https://www.maaco.ca/blog/how-does-paintless-dent-repair-work/), we’re ready to tackle whatever Black Friday throws your way. [Schedule an appointment](https://www.maaco.ca/offers/) at a Maaco location near you!


The Accident Stats Behind Black Friday

With Black Friday, one of retail’s biggest holidays, quickly approaching, it is no surprise that roads and parking lots may feel more congested. An increased number of drivers on the road, racing to snag the best retail discount can also lead to an increased number of accidents, dents, or dings while you’re out and about.  A little precaution can go a long way towards safeguarding yourself and your vehicle during your holiday shopping. 

6 Easy Car Care Tips for Warm Weather

Honoring a Maaco Legend

Happy Birthday & 34th Maacoversary to Joe Houghton, West Springfield, Massachusetts

Elevating Auto Repair Standards

Understanding Maaco’s OET Process

Resolutions for a Damaged Vehicle Solution

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