Paint - Prevention and Repair of Acid Rain Damage: Overview
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PREVENTION AND REPAIR OF ACID RAIN DAMAGE
CONDITION & CAUSE:
"Acid Rain" is the result of rainwater or other airborne moisture made acidic by chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle and remain in contact on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur.
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE:
It is the responsibility of the dealer to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle's finish after receipt at the dealership. Frequent vehicle washing, up to 4 times weekly during high heat and humidity periods should be performed to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.
INSPECTION AND REPAIR:
Acid rain damage can frequently be identified on vehicles by the presence of visible spots on the paint surface which resemble hard water stains. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by polishing or buffing only.
Because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal polishing or buffing repair procedures should not be attempted, as this will result in visible depressions in the paint surface.
CORRECTIVE ACTION:
The repair of acid rain damaged paint surfaces varies depending on how deep the acid has penetrated. Superficial damage can usually be removed by color-sanding and polishing. If the damage extends to a depth greater than 1/2 mil of the clearcoat on a pearl or metallic color, or more than 1 mil of a solid color, sanding and repainting may be necessary.
Unfortunately, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent of the acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions and then measuring the amount of paint removed with a magnetic type paint film thickness gauge.