Our cars are not just a means of commuting from one place to another. It is a prized possession to us, irrespective of the brand or type. We take pride in our rides, and thus, we always want to keep them in mint condition. However, even if you take proper care of your automobile, chances are that with time, it will sustain scratches from dust particles and other roadside debris and water stains.
As a car owner, I have faced these issues with my vehicle too and have learned the hard ways to protect it from such problems as water stains and others and keep it in pristine shape. By doing so, I not only satisfy my desire for a shining, brand-new-looking car, which is, of course, desirable for most car lovers but also retain its value. Of course, it will take some of your time and effort. Still, if you’re willing to put in the effort, there is no better feeling than a shining, showroom-conditioned automobile.
Moreover, professional car detailing is expensive. As a car enthusiast and co-car owner, I understand your disappointment when your car looks old or loses its showroom finishes and the shine gets dull. That is why, in this article, I will share 6 DIY car detailing tips to keep your car looking new and fresh. So, please stay on this page to learn the ways to preserve and maintain the freshness of your vehicle and avoid its aesthetic aging.
Wash Regularly and Properly
The cornerstone of car detailing is a thorough wash. Regular washing removes dirt, grime, and contaminants that can damage your car’s paint over time. Use the two-bucket method, one bucket for soap water and another for rinsing your wash mitt. This prevents dirt from returning to your mitt and scratching your car paint.
Choosing a suitable car soap is essential, and you should refrain from using household detergents and opt for a soap specifically designed for cars. Car soaps are designed to remove dirt without stripping away wax or sealant.
You must use the top-down principle when washing the car, begin cleaning from the roof, and work your way down. This ensures that the dirtiest parts of your vehicle, like the lower panels and wheels, are washed last.
However, just washing your car won’t help much if you don’t dry it, or the water on the surface of your car will leave a water stain on it, not exactly the result you desire. So, use a microfiber towel to dry your vehicle, reducing the risk of swirl marks. Carefully sponge the car’s surface to dry it instead of wiping it to avoid scratching it.
Clay Bar Treatment
Even after washing, some contaminants like tree sap, industrial fallout, and brake dust can persistently bond with your car paint. This is where a clay bar comes in handy. Spray a lubricant (usually included with the clay bar kit) onto a small section of your car. Glide the clay bar over the area using light pressure. You’ll feel the bar picking up embedded contaminants. Ideally, you must perform a clay bar treatment once or twice a year to keep your paint smooth and clean.
Wax or Polish
A good quality wax or polish improves the appearance of your car and provides a protective layer. Learn more here about further repairs you can do. Waxing your vehicle creates a protective barrier against UV rays, road grime, and other environmental contaminants. It also enhances the shine and depth of your car’s paint. Apply wax using a foam applicator pad in small, circular motions, and then remove it with a microfiber towel after it dries.
Another way to remove minor imperfections and swirl marks and restore your car’s paint to its original shine is by Polishing. Use an appropriate car polish and a dual-action polisher for the best results. Polishing should be done before waxing for a flawless finish.
When deciding between waxing and polishing, consider the condition of your car’s paint. If the paint has minor scratches and swirl marks, a polish will help restore its smooth finish. Wax, on the other hand, is ideal for maintaining the shine and providing ongoing protection.
Clean the Interior
Detailing isn’t just about the exterior. Keeping your car’s interior clean is equally important.
Vacuum thoroughly inside your car by removing floor mats and vacuuming the seats, carpets, and all the nooks and crannies.
If you have leather seats, use a good quality leather cleaner and conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. For fabric seats, use a fabric cleaner to remove stains and odors.
Once again, use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner to clean the dashboard, center console, and other plastic or vinyl surfaces. Avoid using too much water or cleaner, which can damage electronics.
Wheels and Tires
Car wheels and tires are often their dirtiest parts. Proper care can significantly enhance the overall look of your vehicle.
Wheel cleaner can help you clean your wheels and enhance its appeal. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner to break down brake dust and road grime. Apply the cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a wheel brush and rinse thoroughly.
Applying a tire shine will not only make your tires look new but also protect them from cracking and fading. Choose a water-based dressing for a natural shine.
Glass and Windows
Crystal-clear windows improve visibility and contribute to a polished appearance. You can use glass cleaners specifically designed for automotive glass to avoid streaks and residue. Spray the cleaner on a microfiber cloth rather than directly on the glass to prevent overspray on your interior surfaces. Once you’re done with the exterior of the glass, clean the inside of the windows as well, as interior glass can get hazy, making it obscure to see from.
Final Thoughts
The above-listed tips to keep cars looking new are things I picked up along my car ownership journey and have worked for me. I’m sure you, too, will get the desired results by following these tips. Your car is an extension of your personality, and sure enough, it must stand out in the traffic and among your peers to boost about it in a good way.
Moreover, by paying attention to the detailing of your automobile, you not only ensure it looks showroom-new but also that it drives properly and all its components are in good condition, thus minimizing the chances of breakdowns.
If you have some other tips to keep cars looking new that have worked for you, please share them with us in the comments section. And if you find the article helpful, please like it and share it with fellow car owners and enthusiasts.
