the EPA mandated car manufacturers that sell cars in the US to switch over to more enviornmentaly friendly water-based paints to limit atmospheric polutants. Its not so much that they are "softer" as they are generally weaker and more brittle than old solvent based paints since they are applied in a very thin, semi dry layer that is then quickly heated in an almost powder-coating process. This semi-solid application is what also leads to the orange peeling. Nissan has had the biggest problem switching overto the new paints, just look here at a web page dedicated to compiling consumer complaints!
http://www.maximapaint.com/ In time manufactures will refine the process but for now, factory paint quality will not be at the level it has been in the past. To exacerbate the problem, unlike the old days of chrome and rubber bumpers, nearly all new cars are made with large painted front bumpers that reach even lower to the ground. This will be a huge problem in the next few years, I dont think many people realise the amount of cars they will see on the road with completely sandblasted front ends. I see this all the time at our shop, even on cars that come to us with less than a hundred miles look like theyve been on the road for over a year. Hope that clears it up a bit. My company Invisiguard installs 3M automotive paint protection film, if anybody has any other questions feel free to mail me,
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Jeremy