When you purchase a Ford vehicle, you’re making a significant investment in both reliability and style. Whether it’s a rugged F-150, a versatile Explorer, or a sleek Mustang, protecting your vehicle’s condition is essential to preserving its appearance, value, and performance.
At Mike White Ford, we know that many owners take pride in keeping their vehicles pristine, but things can happen even with the utmost care. Everyday driving can expose your car, truck, or SUV to various hazards that may lead to wear, tear, and damage on the exterior. Thankfully, many accessories are designed specifically for Ford vehicles to provide added protection that will maintain the value of your investment over time.
Common Threats to Your Vehicle’s Appearance and Value
Owning a vehicle means it will inevitably face a range of threats, from unpredictable weather conditions to minor scrapes and scratches. Here are some common hazards that can affect your Ford’s condition:
- Harsh Weather: Rain, snow, and sleet can lead to rusting and paint damage, especially on exposed surfaces. In regions like North Idaho, snow and road salt can quickly corrode unprotected parts of your vehicle.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause your paint to fade and dry out interior surfaces or material, eventually leading to cracks or discoloration.
- Dirt, Debris, and Road Hazards: Rocks, gravel, and other debris on the road can chip your paint, while mud and dirt can accumulate in hard-to-clean areas. These can cause scratches and impact the longevity of your vehicle’s finish.
- Daily Use: Scratches from keys, accidental dings in parking lots, and other minor damage can accumulate over time, lowering the overall value and appearance of your Ford.
To safeguard your Ford, consider investing in protective accessories that minimize damage from these threats and maintain your vehicle’s showroom look. Interior accessories like all-weather floor mats, cargo liners, seat covers, and dash covers can protect your interior, but here are seven of the top exterior protection accessories for your Ford vehicle.
Our Top Picks
1. Mud Flaps and Splash Guards
Mud flaps and splash guards help shield your vehicle’s fenders and side panels from rocks, mud, and road salt. These accessories are particularly useful in areas with wet or muddy conditions, as they reduce the amount of debris that gets kicked up by the tires. They’re practical and can also enhance your Ford’s rugged look.
2. Paint Protection Film
Paint protection film is a transparent layer of thermoplastic urethane applied to your vehicle’s painted surfaces. This coating creates a strong barrier against scratches, chips, and stains, helping maintain the shine and integrity of your Ford’s exterior. It’s especially beneficial for areas prone to dings and scratches, such as the front bumper, hood, and rear-view side mirrors, but expect to spend a fair amount for this accessory from a wrap specialist.
3. Bug Deflectors and Hood Shields
Bug deflectors and hood shields help protect your vehicle’s front end from bug splatters, stone chips that come up off the road or fly out of trucks, and other debris on the road or in the air that can damage the paint if it hits your car. These deflectors are typically installed on the leading edge of the hood and work by redirecting airflow, so bugs and small rocks are less likely to strike the hood or windshield. Alternatively, a hood mask (sometimes called a hood bra) can protect the front of your car from small chips caused by rocks and debris hitting the front. These simple additions can keep your Ford looking great for years.
4. Backup Cameras and Parking Sensors
Backup cameras and parking sensors don’t just enhance safety; they can also protect your vehicle’s exterior from accidental dings and scrapes while maneuvering in tight spaces. These technologies help you park confidently and avoid obstacles that could cause minor damage to your vehicle’s paint or bumper. All late-model Fords have backup cameras, but not all have parking assist. If you have an older vehicle or a vehicle without park assist, aftermarket cameras and sensors are available and can be seamlessly integrated into your car.
5. Door Edge Guards and Body Side Moldings
Minor impacts from neighboring vehicles in parking lots are all too common. Door edge guards and body side moldings help shield your Ford’s doors and panels from scratches and dents caused by these incidents. Door edge guards fit snugly along the edges of your doors, while body side moldings are placed along the sides of the vehicle to absorb the impact from other car doors, shopping carts, or accidental bumps.
6. Window Deflectors
Window deflectors, also known as rain guards, allow you to crack your windows slightly in rainy or windy conditions without letting in moisture. This accessory can help keep your interior dry and reduce the buildup of humidity inside your vehicle, preventing foggy windows and mold formation. Window deflectors are also helpful for ventilating your car on hot days while keeping rain and debris out.
7. Car Covers
If you park your Ford outdoors frequently or live in an area with extreme weather, a car cover is one of the best ways to protect its exterior. A custom car cover will fit your specific model and offer protection from UV rays, rain, snow, and bird droppings. A high-quality car cover can prevent damage to your paint and trim and reduce the need for more frequent washing or detailing.
Keep Your Ford in Top Condition
By equipping your Ford with the right protection accessories, you can shield it from many of the everyday hazards that contribute to exterior damage, preserving its value and appearance for years to come. These simple yet effective additions can help you enjoy a cleaner, more pristine vehicle over its lifetime.
If you want to add any of these accessories to your current Ford or are considering a new vehicle, Mike White Ford in North Idaho is here to help. Our team can guide you through the best protective options to suit your needs and find parts compatible with your specific model. Contact us today or visit the Mike White Ford dealership with showrooms in Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint to explore our inventory and speak with our team.