Spilled gas on a car’s painted exterior is a common occurrence that many drivers have experienced. When fueling up at the gas station, it’s easy for a few drops to splash out of the filler neck and onto the body of the car. Overfilling the tank can also lead to spillover. Aside from refueling mishaps, an accident or mechanical issue may also cause gas to leak onto the exterior paint. This can leave car owners wondering: will the spilled fuel cause permanent damage to my paint job?
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Does gas dissolve or damage automotive paint?
Gasoline is a solvent, meaning it can dissolve or release other substances. When gasoline comes into contact with painted surfaces, it can have an adverse effect. The main way that spilled gas damages car paint is by dissolving the clear coat finish. This clear outer layer is what makes the colored paint underneath shiny and glossy. As gasoline dissolves the clear coat, it creates a visual defect by making the paint appear dull, flat, or frosty. The damage may take the form of whitish blotchy spots or streaks. In extreme cases with prolonged exposure, the colored base coat underneath can also become damaged.
While all clear coat finishes are vulnerable, some are more resistant than others. Enamel paints hold up the best, while acrylic clears are the most prone to defects. Metallic flecked paints also show defects very clearly. How quickly gas eats through the clear coat depends on factors like:
- How recently the gasoline was spilled
- If the fuel is left to sit or wiped off immediately
- The type and quality of clear coat used
- Environmental conditions like heat and humidity
Fresh fuel that is left on paintwork will dissolve the clear coat fastest. Wiping spilled gas off quickly limits the damage done. Higher quality clear coats last longer against chemical damage. And heat and moisture accelerate the reaction between gasoline and clear coat.
Does gas permanently ruin car paint?
In many cases, spilled gasoline will only temporarily damage the clear coat finish. If wiped off promptly, no lasting mark may remain after the fuel evaporates. However, gas left to linger can seep through the clear coat and cause permanent staining, a dull patch, or clouding. Extreme deterioration of the clear coat also necessitates a full repaint.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Brief contact causes no permanent damage if wiped off quickly
- 30-60 minutes of exposure may leave temporary minor dulling that can be polished out
- Several hours of exposure is likely to cause lasting damage to the clear coat
- 12-24+ hours of exposure requires repainting damaged panel(s)
These timelines can vary based on the aforementioned factors like paint type and environment. But leaving fuel on paintwork for an extended period has a high likelihood of permanent clear coat damage.
How to limit paint damage from spilled gas
To protect your car’s exterior paint from spilled gas, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid overfilling the tank and spilling during refueling
- Tightly close the fuel filler cap when done
- Gently wipe off any spilled drops immediately
- If a large spill occurs, wipe with absorbent towels
- Rinse the affected area with water if safe to dilute fuel
- Use a clay bar to remove oily residue left behind
- Apply wax or paint sealant to add a protective barrier
Acting quickly to absorb gasoline is key to preventing both temporary and permanent clear coat damage. Keeping wax or sealant on the paint also makes the surface more spill-resistant. Parking in a garage to limit exposure helps too.
How to repair paint damaged by spilled gas
If gasoline has dulled or etched your painted finish, try these remedies:
- Machine polish with a fine cutting compound to restore mild dulling
- Wet sand localized damaged areas before polishing if more severe
- Repaint panels where the clear coat is too far gone and polish no longer works
- Use touch up paint for light staining of the base coat beneath
- Apply a fresh coat of wax or paint sealant when done polishing
Professional detailing is recommended for more extensive paint correction. Repainting individual panels can blend surrounding areas still in good condition. Remember to address what caused the gasoline spill as well. Proper repairs should prevent future fuel-related paint damage.
Does car insurance cover spilled gas paint damage?
Spilled gasoline that damages exterior paintwork is typically covered under an auto insurance policy’s comprehensive coverage. This portion of a policy covers non-collision property damage to your car from incidents like:
- Vandalism
- Falling objects
- Theft
- Fire
- Animal strikes
- And other environmental hazards
Damage from inadvertently spilled gasoline at the pump would fall under the environmental hazards category. Just like with other comprehensive claims, you will need to pay your deductible first. The insurer will then pay for professional detailing or repainting costs beyond this amount.
However, intentionally pouring gasoline on a car to commit insurance fraud is illegal. Make sure you document how accidental spills occurred. Photos of fueling mishaps can help support your claim.
Is it safe to drive a car after spilled gas?
This depends on the location and amount of spilled gasoline. Here are some guidelines on driving safety:
- Wipe off small spills before driving as fuel could ignite from hot engine parts
- Allow large spills to fully dry before driving to prevent slipping hazards
- Do not drive if fuel has saturated interior carpets or entered trunk/cargo areas
- Avoid driving if fuel has spilled inside engine bay, as this poses a fire risk
- Eliminate fuel vapors from cabin area to prevent breathing hazards
Never drive a car that smells strongly of gasoline fumes inside, as this creates respiratory and explosion risks. Also do not drive a vehicle leaking fuel from the engine, lines, or tank. Make repairs as needed before operating the car.
Key takeaways
Here are the key points to remember:
- Spilled gas can damage car paint by dissolving the protective clear coat
- Prompt cleanup minimizes permanent damage, while extended exposure risks lasting dull spots
- Fine polishing or repainting panels may be needed if the clear coat is too deteriorated
- Comprehensive auto insurance should cover paint damage from accidental spills
- Do not drive a car with major interior or engine bay gas spills until properly cleaned
Being aware of spilled gasoline risks allows you to take steps to protect your car’s exterior paint. Quick response limits damage when accidental spills do occur. Understanding how to safely clean up gas spills prevents both cosmetic and mechanical problems.
References
[1] Progressive Insurance. “Does car insurance cover paint damage?” Accessed September 2022.
https://www.progressive.com/answers/does-car-insurance-cover-paint-damage/
[2] State Farm. “Does car insurance cover paint damage?” Accessed September 2022.
https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/does-car-insurance-cover-paint-damage
[3] DMV.org. “Does Car Insurance Cover Paint Damage?” Accessed September 2022.
https://www.dmv.org/insurance/does-car-insurance-cover-paint-damage.php
[4] CARFAX. “Paint Damage: What Happens When Gasoline Damages a Car’s Paint?” Accessed September 2022.
https://www.carfax.com/blog/gasoline-damages-car-paint
[5] HotCars. “Gas On A Car’s Paint – What Happens and What To Do Next.” Accessed September 2022.
https://www.hotcars.com/gas-on-a-cars-paint-what-happens-and-what-to-do-next/
[6] ChrisFix. “How to Repair Clear Coat – Auto Body Repair Hacks.” YouTube, uploaded 29 Sept. 2018.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbSIjsUeWZ4&ab_channel=ChrisFix