Heavy rains, hail and excessive heat increase the risks to the bodywork; PPG specialist points out preventive measures
The summer of 2026 imposes an extra challenge on Brazilian drivers: the preservation of automotive paint in the face of an aggressive climate scenario. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), the season combines intense heat with rainfall volumes that can exceed 400 millimeters, creating the ideal environment for premature wear of the varnish and bodywork.
Ricardo Vettorazzi, technical manager of automotive refinishing at PPG, explains that thermal oscillation and humidity require defense tactics. The first rule is about parking: although the shade of the trees seems attractive against the sun, it should be avoided on unstable days due to the risk of falling branches, sap and dirt. Vettorazzi also warns of areas near construction sites, where “paint mist” and dust can adhere to the bodywork.
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The use of automotive covers, popular at this time, requires caution. The accessory must be waterproof and used strictly when the vehicle is clean and dry. Covering the car while it is still wet creates a greenhouse effect that causes irreversible stains on the paint. In hygiene, the use of shampoos with neutral pH is mandatory, and solvents such as gasoline or alcohol should be banned. Another critical point is bird feces: due to their acidity, they must be washed immediately with water to prevent corrosion.
Finally, mechanical safety overrides aesthetics in extreme cases. When facing flooded areas, the reference is the center of the wheel: if the water exceeds this level, the engine should not be started. In addition to the risk of hydraulic choking, contaminated flood water is highly corrosive to the underside of the vehicle.
