☀️ The 5 Enemies of Your Car's Shine This Summer (and How to Beat Them)

Spring is here, and Summer is not far off now!

Australian summers are no joke. Between relentless UV, sticky humidity, and sudden storms, your car's finish is constantly under attack. Add in bugs, bird droppings, and brake dust, and it's easy to see why paintwork and wheels take such a beating this time of year.

Here are the five biggest enemies of your car's shine — and how detailing enthusiasts keep them under control.

1. UV Rays ☀️

The Aussie sun is one of the harshest in the world. Left unprotected, UV light oxidises paint, fades trims, and bakes interiors. That deep gloss you worked so hard to perfect? It doesn't stand a chance without a barrier.

How to fight back:

• Apply a ceramic coating, sealant, or wax for a sacrificial layer.
• Treat exterior plastics with a UV protectant to stop fading.
• Condition leather regularly so it doesn't dry and crack.

2. Humidity & Summer Storms 🌧️

Here in Queensland (and plenty of other regions), summer equals humidity. Dust, crumbs, and junk in your cabin create the perfect breeding ground for mould once moisture sets in. Storms also leave behind dirty water spots and streaks.

How to fight back:

• Vacuum and wipe interiors before the season ramps up.
• Keep door jambs and seals clean so water drains properly.
• Use a hydrophobic glass sealant to make rain roll straight off.

3. Bugs, Bird Droppings & Tree Sap 🐦

They might seem like a minor nuisance, but bugs and droppings are acidic and can etch into clear coat within hours. Tree sap bakes on under the sun, creating stubborn marks.

How to fight back:

• Carry a quick detailer or bug remover in your kit for spot-cleaning.
• Wash off droppings ASAP — don't wait for the weekend detail.
• Apply a strong protective layer before summer; it makes cleanup easier.

4. Brake Dust & Road Grime 🛞

Few things kill the look of a car faster than filthy wheels. Brake dust is corrosive — let it sit too long and it can permanently damage your rims. And with summer road trips ahead, you'll pick up plenty of grime along the way.

How to fight back:

• Clean wheels weekly with a tool that reaches into barrels and tight spokes.
• Protect wheels with a ceramic spray or sealant to reduce buildup.
• Don't forget tyre dressing for UV protection and that finished look.

5. Water Spots & Mineral Deposits 💧

Whether from sprinklers, rain, or washing in the heat, water spots are a silent killer of shine. Minerals etch into paint and glass, leaving marks that polishing may be the only cure for.

How to fight back:

• Always dry thoroughly with a clean microfiber after washing.
• Avoid washing in direct sun to reduce spotting.
• Use filtered or softened water if possible.

Final Thoughts

Summer is the season where paint and wheels take the hardest hit — but with the right strategy, your shine can outlast the heat. Make sure to also have the right tools to avoid damaging your car

Start with strong protection, stay on top of quick maintenance, and don't give these five enemies a chance to settle in.

🦊 Pro tip: Wheels are always the first to show neglect. That's why we created Fox Tail — to make deep wheel cleaning fast, safe, and satisfying. Once your wheels are dialled in, the whole car looks better.

Stay glossy,
— The Fox Tail Team