When you first get a body kit for your car it’s easy to get excited about how it looks. But to keep it looking great and functioning properly for years, regular maintenance is essential. Start by inspecting the entire kit every few weeks for misaligned pieces, visible gaps, or warping. Verify that every fastener is securely secured. Over time, vibrations and temperature changes can cause fasteners to loosen, so never procrastinate until parts become loose.

Clean your body kit regularly using a mild soap and water — avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners because they can etch the surface or accelerate UV degradation. Employ a plush, non-abrasive fabric to protect the surface. After washing, ensure no moisture lingers to prevent spotting and prevent condensation buildup that leads to corrosion.

If your body kit is painted check for tiny cracks or abrasions. Even tiny nicks can allow water intrusion that causes corrosion or flaking. Touch up any damage with matching paint as soon as possible. For offroad auto part raw fiberglass or carbon fiber panels, reapply a sun-blocking sealant every 90 days to guard against discoloration and material brittleness.

Monitor the gap between your fenders and wheel wells, especially if you’ve lowered your car. Contact during cornering or when hitting potholes can lead to permanent deformation. Tweak your alignment or reseat the kit to restore proper spacing. Also, remove trapped material from the wheel arches like dust, sand, and corrosive residues, which can promote rust and material breakdown.

Inspect the lower edges of your body panels. Debris accumulates along the perimeter of the panels, so clean with a soft-flow nozzle at minimal PSI. Never use high pressure directly on the edges of panels as it can push moisture into bonded joints and dissolve sealants.

Maintain a detailed log of your care routine. Note when you cleaned it, tightened fasteners, or applied protectants. This helps you anticipate problems before they escalate. A properly cared-for kit not only looks better but also protects your car’s original structure and increases resale value. Consider it vital structural defense, not just an aesthetic upgrade.