How to Keep Your Car Looking New

Hand Washing Your Car’s Exterior

The biggest mistake that many car owners make when they wash their car at home is using liquid dish washing detergent to get the job done.

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What makes these liquids so effective for dish washing is exactly what can cause them to be damaging to paint. They are specifically designed to remove everything from the surface of dishes and will do the same thing to your car’s painted finish by washing away the wax and polymers that you have used to protect the paint. Always use shampoos that are specially formulated for car washing.

When hand washing your car always spray the entire car before you begin washing. Start at the top and work your way down.

• Lather one section at a time with a soft plush toel and be sure to hose it off immediately so the soap doesn’t dry.
• Always use a thick, plush cotton towel to dry your car. Towels made of smooth fabric can catch on any hard particles left behind after washing and cause scratches on the paint.
• Do not wash a car while the engine is still warm from driving.

Removing Built Up Grime and Debris

Although washing is important it is not the same thing as cleaning the paint itself. After washing and drying your car, run your hand over the surface. If it feels smooth and glass-like, then the paint is clean. If it feels gritty or slightly sticky, then invisible pieces of debris have bonded themselves to the finish, making it impossible to get a nice clear glossy finish.

There are two types of paint cleaners: friction and chemical. Chemical cleaners are are better for removing sticky debris but are harsh and can strip the finish somewhat. Friction cleaners smooth out the paint’s finish and create a clear glossy finish. Cleaning your car’s paint will leave the finish smooth and ready for waxing, however it is not necessary to clean the paint every time that your car is washed.

Waxing

The purpose of waxing your car is to protect it from oxidization, the elements, road debris pollution and anything else that can compromise the color and finish of the paint.

• After you have washed your car and cleaned the paint, move it to a shaded area or in to the garage (anywhere out of the sunlight). 
• Using a circular motion, apply the wax on one section of the car at a time with a very soft slightly damp cloth.
• Allow the wax to dry until it has a dull hazy look, then using a clean soft rag/towel, buff it back off of the paint.

In some cases a thorough waxing can require several applications. You can tell if there is enough wax by pouring water on the paint. If the water beads up right away, then there is a sufficient amount of wax. If the water just seems to be absorbed by the paint, then you need more wax.

Tip

Soap and water may not be enough to remove tough sticky residue like road tar and tree sap. To remove these sticky substances, use a small amount of a petroleum or citrus based degreaser. Those with a citrus base are safest and most gentle on painted surfaces.