Most drivers know how to keep their cars in good condition. It involves getting servicing handled on time, cleaning the exterior regularly, and driving cautiously.

But sometimes, even these good habits in perpetuity are not enough. A vehicle is subject to many hazards that can wear down its exterior, leading to long-term damage and making it hard to reverse the process once it’s begun.

Using protective film is a wise choice, as there are many hidden hazards out there that can damage a vehicle. Most people know about the obvious sources of harm such as damage from accidents, but here are some hidden hazards to look out for.

1. Sap

Parking underneath a tree is usually a safe bet, so long as it’s in good health and there is no breeze blowing – right? Sap is one of the least-discussed hazards for car paint jobs. If sap stays on an unprotected exterior for too long, it can lead to unsightly marks. Even once it has been cleaned, the substance can lead to chips in the vehicle’s paint.

2. Bugs

There’s no way to dodge the insects that find their way into your car’s path on the road. While their remains aren’t hard to wash off, leaving them on for too long can have the same effect as sap. These stains may result after every drive, making it easy not to notice them.

3. Salt

When the roads are snowy, salt trucks provide a bit of added traction to help make the trip a bit safer. Unfortunately, there are also risks associated with this substance. The main problem is that it can fly up, damaging a vehicle and taking a big toll on the paint job.

4. Rocks

Just because it isn’t big doesn’t mean it can’t have a big effect on a car. Small pebbles fly up constantly as people drive, pelting vehicles in all areas. Sometimes, this doesn’t have a major impact. However, enough exposure to this hazard can result in vehicles going from great-looking to average at best.

Protecting Against Hidden Hazards

A vehicle’s paint job can sustain harm from multiple sources. It can be easy to assume there is no way to guard against everything at once, but protective film is a holistic solution. This simple material from Autobahn can help anyone guard their car’s paint job against the hazards they see and even the ones they don’t.