Car detailing is the activity of cleaning and restoring a vehicle to look good. It includes everything from washing the interior to polishing the exterior. It’s an art that requires time, practice, and skill. You can use proper products to clean and restore a vehicle’s exterior without damage. Here are some tips on how to detail your car like a pro.
1. Clear Water Rinse Before Washing
Before washing your car, you should thoroughly rinse the body to remove any loose dirt and dust. If necessary, use a hose to spray off small items such as rocks and leaves stuck on the vehicle. Removing dust and debris before washing can protect your paint from scratches.
2. Use the Right Soap
Most people use dishwashing liquid when washing their car, but this isn’t effective. Dishwashing detergent doesn’t contain enough lubricants to properly clean your vehicle’s surface. Instead, use a car-specific soap to remove dirt and grime from your vehicle’s body. It will also help protect the paint job. Chemicals in most types of soap can damage paint; it’s important to choose a formula that’s made for your vehicle.
3. Use a Microfiber Mitt Instead of a Sponge
While some prefer using a sponge, this isn’t the most effective tool because it pushes dirt around instead of lifting it off. Instead of using a sponge to clean your car, get a microfiber mitt. Microfiber is a synthetic material, good at lifting dirt and debris. These mitts are super soft and will not scratch a vehicle’s paint job.
4. Use Synthetic Wax
People often use natural waxes to protect the paint job when washing their cars. However, many of these waxes can leave behind a non-permanent residue, making it hard to apply another layer.
It is safe to use a synthetic wax-like ceramic coat. You can get a ceramic coating kit with products that protect your car from the sun. It contains dispersants that work with the detergent during the cleaning process to provide your car with a protective coating.
5. Brush Out the Air Vents
Air vents are usually grimy because the dust and dirt accumulate inside. These fine particles clog up the ventilation system, which damages the engine. You can prevent this from happening by brushing them.
6. Deep-Clean the Carpet
Use a carpet cleaning machine to deep-clean your vehicle carpet. A carpet cleaning machine will help remove all dirt and debris, leaving your carpet as clean as possible. You can rent a machine from the rental center or use a scrub brush.
7. Wash the Interior
The interior of your vehicle is often neglected when it comes to cleaning. The face, dashboard, and door panels are covered with dust and debris that increase over time. You should give these areas a thorough cleaning. Slide seats and clean the dirt under them. You will find a lot of lost items and dirt on the floor. Gently clean the lines and knobs in your car’s interior.
8. Lubricate Window Tracks
The tracks that move the windows up and down are very delicate. They need to be lubricated regularly to prevent squeaks and crunches. Use a lubricant that is designed for automotive use. This product contains alcohol and silicone that will help keep your window tracks in top condition.
9. Repair Small Paint Chips
You can repair small paint chips that are caused by scratches. Wash the affected area well and apply the compound over the scratched area. If necessary, you can use a cotton swab to apply a layer of wax over the small paint chip to protect your car’s finish.
10. Refinish Wheels
If your wheel is missing all its color and looks dull, you can use a wheel restoration kit. This kit will help you restore your wheels to their original shine. It contains paint accessories, such as wheel repair filler, sandpaper sheet, and alcohol towelettes. You should apply the paint in a thin layer to prevent air bubbles from forming.
Conclusion
Cleaning your car takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. You can detail your car like a pro, and you will notice that your car is shining with a gleaming shine. Your car will look good and new for some time make sure to keep your vehicle properly stored preferably in a garage or under a carport to protect it from the elements.
