Own a Black Car? Here’s How to Keep It Looking Flawless This Summer

Efrain Leon
Jun 22
2 min read

Black cars look stunning when clean and polished, exuding sleekness, luxury, and boldness. But anyone who owns one knows the struggle: black paint shows everything. From light dust to swirl marks, water spots to fine scratches, even the smallest imperfections are magnified under sunlight.

During the summer, the intense sun and rising temperatures only make things worse. UV rays can cause paint to fade, heat can bake contaminants into your clear coat, and water spots from quick drying can leave permanent etching marks.

So, how can you protect and maintain that deep, rich gloss on your black car all summer long?

Wash Frequently, and the Right Way

Black paint needs frequent care. Use a contactless pre-rinse or foam cannon when possible, followed by a gentle hand wash with clean microfiber mitts and a pH-neutral soap. Never let dirt sit; it acts like sandpaper against your clear coat.

Pro Tip: Never wash your black car in direct sunlight. The heat can cause soap and water to dry too quickly, leaving behind streaks and water spots.

Dry with Microfiber (Don't let it air dry)

Air drying or using a regular towel can lead to streaks or, worse, swirl marks. With the right technique, a proper plush microfiber towel, and a drying aid, you will have no trouble.

Polish More Often Than Lighter Colors

Unlike white or silver vehicles, black paint reflects light differently and shows imperfections more easily. That’s why black cars typically need polishing more frequently to restore clarity and eliminate fine scratches and swirl marks.

At Leon Prestige Mobile Detail, we specialize in polishing black vehicles to restore their original depth and clarity without cutting corners.

Protect with Wax, Sealant, or Ceramic Coating

Protection is key, especially during the summer. Applying a high-quality wax or sealant gives a temporary barrier, but for the long term, ceramic coating offers the best protection. It provides:

UV resistance to prevent fading
Hydrophobic protection to reduce water spots
Durability against heat, bird droppings, and tree sap. (Perfect for black vehicles exposed to the elements).

Ceramic coating on black tesla for ultimate care and shine — Ceramic-coated Tesla for ultimate protection and shine.

Avoid Automatic Car Washes

The brushes and cheap chemicals in automatic car washes are a black paint car’s worst enemy. They can leave behind thousands of micro-scratches that dull your finish over time.