197 New York Ave. Huntington, NY 11743 | Monday-Friday 8am-6pm | (631) 351-9146
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Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision Blog
5 Tips for Keeping Your Car's Paint Job in Great Shape
Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision • 3 December 2024
Your car’s paint is not just about aesthetics—it’s your first line of defense against rust and other damage. To help ensure your vehicle maintains its showroom shine, consistent care is crucial. Here are five tips to keep your car's paint job in excellent condition.
Wash Your Car Regularly
Regular washes are essential to remove dirt, grime, and contaminants that can erode your car’s paint. Bird droppings and tree sap are especially damaging if left for long periods. Washing your car every two weeks helps maintain its vibrant finish. Be sure to use products specifically designed for automotive paint to avoid causing scratches or dulling the surface.
Wax Your Car to Protect the Finish
Waxing your car forms a protective barrier over the paint, helping to safeguard it from harmful UV rays, pollutants, and minor abrasions. By waxing your vehicle every three to four months, you’ll not only enhance its shine, but also extend the life of its paint. Using a high-quality product will provide better protection.
Park in Covered or Shaded Areas
Sunlight is one of the biggest enemies of a car's paint job. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade the color. Whenever possible, park in a garage, under a carport, or in a shaded area. If none of these options are available, a car cover with UV protection is a worthwhile investment to protect your vehicle from the elements.
Use Appropriate Cleaning Products
Always use gentle, automotive-grade cleaners and soft microfiber towels or sponges when washing your car. This enables a thorough clean without compromising the integrity of the paint.
Address Chips and Scratches Immediately
Even small chips and scratches can lead to larger problems if left unaddressed. Exposed metal can rust, spreading damage beyond the surface. Repair chips and scratches as soon as you notice them to preserve your car’s appearance and prevent costly repairs.
Auto Painting & Paint Repair in Huntington, NY
For
auto painting in Huntington and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at
(631) 351-9146. At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Rust is one of the biggest threats to your car’s condition and appearance. Once it takes hold, it can spread quickly, causing structural damage and lowering the value of your vehicle. Preventing rust requires proactive measures to protect your car’s surfaces. If your car does develop any rust, it’s important to address it ASAP before it spreads further. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert automotive rust repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are five tips for preventing car rust. Wash and Wax Regularly Keeping your car clean is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent rust. Dirt and debris can accumulate on your car’s exterior and trap moisture against the surface, creating conditions for rust to form. Washing your car regularly removes these contaminants, while applying a high-quality wax provides a protective barrier that helps shield the paint from moisture. Repair Paint Chips and Scratches Promptly Even minor scratches and chips in your car’s paint can lead to rust if left untreated. Exposed metal is highly vulnerable to moisture and air, which accelerate corrosion. Addressing scratches and chips quickly can prevent rust from taking hold. Keep the Undercarriage Clean and Protected The undercarriage of your car is particularly susceptible to rust because it’s constantly exposed to water, dirt, and road salt. Regularly washing the undercarriage removes debris and contaminants that could cause corrosion. Store Your Car in a Dry Environment Where you park your car matters when it comes to rust prevention. Parking in a garage or covered area can help protect your car from rain, snow, and humidity, all of which contribute to rust. If you don’t have access to a garage, using a high-quality car cover can shield your vehicle from the elements. Check for Rust Regularly Regular inspections can help you catch rust before it becomes a serious problem. Pay close attention to areas where rust is most likely to form, such as wheel wells, door frames, and under the car. If you spot early signs of rust, such as small patches of discoloration, address them immediately. Car Rust Repair in Huntington, NY When you need auto body repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we strive to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by consistently doing flawless work at fair prices. Whether you need some light scratch repair or frame straightening after a serious accident, our team will work diligently to get the job done right the first time. And we’re grateful when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “I really could not be more grateful or happy with the service. I was so upset after getting into an accident and causing pretty extensive damage to the side of my car. Tom was such a pleasure to work with. He answered all of my questions, made the process so easy, made the repairs in a timely and efficient manner, and my car looks brand new now! I was so stressed before bringing my car to Tom’s, but he truly made the process so easy, and is such a genuinely nice person and wonderful to work with. Thank you so much!!” — Katie S. “Wouldn’t even consider using any other shop!” — Carl M. “Tom and Chris went above and beyond repairing a bad crack in the bumper of my old Mercedes. It's seriously as good as new, not even a hint of repair or repainting. They even replaced a dead lightbulb and restored my yellowing headlights without me asking. Just an incredible service, I cannot recommend these guys enough!” — Ken L. “Total satisfaction from start to finish! Helpful in all ways, especially with Tom communicating with Geico, getting back to me and Enterprise and setting it all up for me. Customer service was excellent! Couldn’t have asked for more. Will definitely go back if needed and will recommend to others.” — Nancy “I had a great experience with Tom's. My car is good as new and Tom made the insurance process nice and easy.” — Patty M. Collision Repair in Huntington, NY For collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
Your car's frame is its backbone, providing structural support and helping to ensure that your vehicle remains stable and safe on the road. If your car’s frame sustains damage, it’s essential to address the issue right away. Ignoring frame damage can lead to significant safety risks and long-term problems. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car frame repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are three important reasons to fix car frame damage as soon as possible. Compromised Safety The most critical reason to repair car frame damage is safety. Your vehicle's frame is designed to protect passengers by absorbing the impact during a collision. When the frame is bent or damaged, its ability to safeguard you and your passengers is significantly reduced. In the event of another accident, a weakened frame won’t provide the protection it was designed for, putting everyone in the car at greater risk of serious injury. Increased Wear on Tires and Suspension A damaged car frame can affect the alignment of your wheels and suspension system. This misalignment can cause uneven wear on your tires, leading to a higher risk of blowouts or loss of traction on the road. Also, the suspension system may wear out faster due to uneven weight distribution, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Fixing the frame promptly can prevent these cascading problems. Poor Handling and Stability Frame damage can negatively affect your vehicle's handling, making it harder to drive. You may notice that the car pulls to one side, feels unstable at higher speeds, or doesn’t respond to steering as it should. These issues can make everyday driving more dangerous, especially when making quick maneuvers or driving on uneven roads. Addressing frame damage helps restore proper handling. Car Frame Repair in Huntington, NY When you need collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our local body shop, we can restore your vehicle to a safely drivable condition. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Your car's paint job does more than just make your vehicle look good—it also serves as an essential layer of protection for your car’s body. Ignoring paint damage, no matter how minor, can lead to more significant problems down the road, such as rust formation. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car paint repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here are four reasons to promptly fix auto paint damage. Prevents Rust Formation When your car's paint is chipped or scratched, it exposes the underlying metal to moisture and air. This can lead to the formation of rust, which weakens the vehicle’s structural integrity. Rust starts as a small issue, but once it spreads, it can cause extensive damage to your car's body. Quickly fixing paint damage will help you avoid more expensive rust repairs later on. Maintains Resale Value A well-maintained paint job is essential for retaining your car’s value. Prospective buyers are likely to pay more for a car that looks pristine. On the other hand, a vehicle with visible paint damage may signal neglect, driving down its resale price. Promptly fixing paint damage will keep your car looking great and help preserve its value if you plan to sell or trade it in the future. Protects Against Weather Damage Your car’s paint acts as a protective shield against the elements. Harsh sunlight, rain, snow, and other environmental factors can worsen paint damage. UV rays from the sun, in particular, can cause further degradation of exposed areas. By repairing paint damage promptly, you help prevent weather-related wear and tear that could compromise your car’s exterior. Enhances Aesthetic Appeal No one wants to drive around in a car that looks beat up. Paint damage detracts from the overall appearance of your vehicle and can make it look much older than it is. By fixing chips, scratches, and other imperfections right away, you can restore your car’s original shine and give it that like-new look. This can boost your pride in ownership and make your car more enjoyable to drive. Auto Paint Repair in Huntington, NY For auto painting services in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our local body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Keeping your car’s paint job pristine can be a challenging task. Even the most cautious drivers sometimes find themselves dealing with unsightly scratches. Understanding how these scratches happen can help you take steps to prevent them. But if your car does get scratched, it’s important to fix the damage ASAP so that rust doesn’t get the chance to set in. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at five common causes of vehicle scratches. Parking Lot Hazards Parking lots are notorious for causing car scratches. Tight spaces, crowded lots, and careless drivers can all contribute to accidental scratches and dings. Shopping carts, car doors, and other vehicles pose significant risks. Always try to park in a spot with ample space around it, and be mindful of shopping carts and other potential hazards. Tree Branches and Bushes Parking or driving near overgrown trees and bushes can result in scratches from branches and twigs. These scratches can range from minor surface marks to deeper gouges, depending on the branch's thickness and how much contact it makes with your car. To avoid this, try to park away from overhanging branches and be cautious when driving near foliage. Improper Washing Techniques Washing your car incorrectly can do more harm than good. Using dirty sponges, abrasive materials, or even automated car washes with harsh brushes can cause scratches. Always use clean, soft microfiber cloths or mitts. Road Debris While driving, your car can be hit by rocks, gravel, or other debris kicked up by the tires of your vehicle or others around you. This can cause chips and scratches, particularly on the lower parts of your car and the front bumper. Maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, especially trucks, can help minimize this risk. Careless Acts Sometimes scratches happen due to simple carelessness. This can include anything from setting items on top of your car, like keys or bags, to children playing near your vehicle. Even leaning against the car with metal objects in pockets can cause damage. To prevent these scratches, make it a rule to avoid placing items on your car and be mindful of your actions around it. Car Scratch Repair in Huntington, NY When you need auto body repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment !
Your windshield is a critical safety component of your vehicle. When you notice a chip or crack in your windshield, it might be tempting to ignore it, especially if it seems minor. However, addressing windshield damage promptly is important for several reasons. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert windshield repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at four important reasons to fix windshield damage ASAP. Safety Concerns Your windshield plays a crucial role in your vehicle's structural integrity. It provides support to the roof, particularly in a rollover accident. A damaged windshield is more likely to shatter, which compromises the protection it offers to you and your passengers. Even a small chip can soon turn into a large crack, significantly weakening the windshield and putting everyone at greater risk in an accident. Prevent Further Damage Windshield damage tends to eventually spread. Changes in temperature or even just the normal vibrations from driving can cause a small chip or crack to expand. What starts as a minor repair can quickly turn into a costly windshield replacement if not addressed promptly. Fixing small damage early can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. Visibility Issues Even minor chips and cracks can obstruct your view of the road, creating dangerous driving conditions. Light reflecting off the damage can cause glare, and a crack in the driver's line of sight can be distracting and impair your ability to see clearly. Ensuring your windshield is in good condition helps maintain optimal visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Legal Implications In the state of New York, you can get ticketed for driving with windshield damage that affects visibility. Rather than risk a ticket, it’s best to promptly get to the shop for the repairs. Auto Glass Repair & Replacement in Huntington, NY For auto glass in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment !
Many drivers underestimate the urgency of addressing rust. But car rust can start as a small spot on your car’s surface and quickly escalate into a widespread issue if left unchecked. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert automotive rust repair in the greater Huntington, NY area. Here’s a look at four reasons to repair car rust ASAP. Prevent Structural Damage Rust isn't just a cosmetic issue—it can compromise the structural integrity of your car. When rust penetrates the metal, it weakens it, leading to structural instability. This can be particularly hazardous in areas like the frame, where compromised integrity can jeopardize the safety of the vehicle. Swiftly fixing rust can prevent it from spreading and help safeguard the structural integrity of your car. Avoid More Expensive Repairs Addressing rust early can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. What starts as a small patch of surface rust can escalate into extensive corrosion, requiring costly repairs or even part replacements. By repairing rust promptly, you can nip the problem in the bud, preventing it from escalating and becoming more expensive to remedy. Aesthetic Appeal Rust detracts from the visual appeal of your car, making it look neglected and unkempt. If you take pride in your vehicle's appearance, addressing rust is essential for maintaining its aesthetic appeal. Investing in prompt rust repairs can rejuvenate your car's appearance and make you feel proud to drive it once again. Preserve Resale Value Whether you're planning to sell your car soon or years from now, it’s important to preserve its resale value. Rust significantly diminishes the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle and raises concerns about its upkeep. Potential buyers are often wary of rusted cars, fearing hidden damage and costly repairs. By promptly addressing rust issues, you help to make a positive impression on prospective buyers, giving you a better chance of getting your asking price. Car Rust Repair in Huntington, NY When you need auto body repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our local body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we aim to earn our customers’ trust and respect by providing top-quality repairs at fair rates. No matter how big or small the job at hand, our team will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. As proud members of the Huntington, NY small business community, it’s very important to us that we earn our customers’ approval. And we always appreciate it when our customers take the time to offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “After two separate incidents with my car in a short span of time, Tom’s got my car back to me quickly. I had a deer body check my car doing a lot of damage and an 18 wheel send a hunk of metal across the hwy. both times my car was back to me sooner than expected and looking like nothing ever happened.” — Stephen P. “This business is excellent at their work! They are professional and communicate with the car owner effectively. My 10+ year old car came back to me looking like new! I would highly recommend them for their services!” — Devin K. “Great work at reasonable prices!” — Patricia P. “Came here based on a friend's recommendation and I have to say, I am extremely pleased with Tom's team and their work...you could never have guessed that I scraped my car against a concrete column. Tom returns calls promptly, takes the time to explain options and what's needed, works with your schedule and needs, and completes the work within the time promised. The quote was extremely reasonable and competitive. Could not have asked for a better experience. If you are looking for a reliable body shop, look no further.” — Byron C. “Always great service and reasonable pricing. Would never use anyone else.” — Val K. Collision Repair in Huntington, NY For collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . At our local body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
In some cases, it’s more cost-effective to replace the entire damaged section of a vehicle rather than fix the damage itself. This is often true for doors, front quarter panels, trunk lids, and bumpers. At Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision, we provide expert auto body replacement, which can save significant labor costs as we replace the damaged section of your car. Here’s a look at four reasons to choose auto body panel replacement. Restored Structural Integrity One of the primary benefits of replacing damaged body panels is the restoration of your vehicle's structural integrity. A dent or a damaged panel not only compromises the appearance of your car, but can also affect its performance and safety. By replacing the damaged panel with a new one, you help to ensure that your vehicle maintains its original strength and rigidity, providing a safer driving experience for you and your passengers. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal The visual appeal of your car can be significantly diminished by damage to body panels. Auto body panel replacement allows you to refresh your vehicle's appearance and bring back its original shine. Replacing the damaged panels will give your car a fresh look, making it appear newer and more attractive. With a pristine exterior, you'll feel a renewed sense of pride when you hit the road. Protection Against Corrosion Rust is an automobile’s enemy, eating away at the metal and compromising its structural integrity. When left unchecked, rust can spread quickly, causing severe damage to your car's body. By replacing rusted or corroded panels with new ones, you can eliminate the unsightly blemishes while also safeguarding your vehicle against further corrosion. Increased Resale Value Whether you're planning to sell your car in the near future or simply want to maintain its value, investing in auto body panel replacement can pay dividends. A well-maintained exterior enhances the overall value of your vehicle, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Even minor imperfections can significantly reduce the resale value of a car, so replacing damaged panels before putting it on the market is a wise investment that can yield higher returns. Auto Body Panel Replacement in Huntington, NY For auto body panel replacement in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
In today's fast-paced world, many people drive recklessly as they rush to their destinations, which increases the chance of accidents that can have devastating consequences. But by taking some simple precautions, you can reduce your accident risk. Here’s a look at five basic tips for reducing your risk of a car accident. Stay Focused and Eliminate Distractions In the U.S., the leading cause of car accidents is distracted driving. With the prevalence of smartphones and in-car entertainment systems, it's easy to get distracted while behind the wheel. To help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road, it's crucial to stay focused on driving. Avoid using your phone and other distracting activities while driving. Always Obey Traffic Rules and Speed Limits Traffic rules and speed limits exist for a reason – to keep everyone on the road safe. Make it a habit to obey all traffic signs, signals, and regulations. Adhering to speed limits is particularly important, as excessive speed reduces the time you have to react to potential dangers. Maintain Your Vehicle Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for ensuring your car's safety. Check your brakes, tires, lights, and fluids regularly. Address any issues promptly, and don't neglect routine maintenance tasks like oil changes and tire rotations. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to experience mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Safe Following Distance Maintaining a safe following distance is a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of safe driving. The three-second rule is a good guideline – keep at least three seconds of travel time between your car and the vehicle in front of you. And you should increase this distance in adverse weather conditions. A safe following distance provides you with adequate time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or encounters a problem. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions Inclement weather can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Rain, snow, fog, and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. In such conditions, it's important to adjust your driving behavior accordingly. Slow down, increase your following distance, and use your headlights to improve visibility. If the weather is severe, consider postponing your trip. Collision Repair in Huntington, NY When you need collision repair in Huntington, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision at (631) 351-9146 . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
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Tom’s Auto Refinishing & Collision
Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
197 New York Ave.
Huntington, NY 11743
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Huntington, East Norwich, Northport, Greenlawn, Syosset, Huntington Bay, Lloyd Harbor & Melville
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