How to Wash Your Car Like a Pro
Does your car need some TLC? Want to make it look sparkling new without paying top dollar to do so?
Whether you drive a Honda or a Ferrari, you can learn how to wash your car like a pro with a few simple tips. By using the best car wash soap products and techniques, you’ll have your ride squeaky clean in no time.
Let’s get into it!
Get Yourself The Best Products
You wouldn’t wash your car with dishwashing soap or conditioner, right? So, don’t expect ordinary cleaning agents to get the job done for your vehicle, either.
Standard detergents or hand soaps can damage your car’s paint and protective wax. Don’t be that guy and take those risks.
Instead, you will need appropriate car wash products and shampoos. Check with a reputable seller before purchasing.
Some of the shampoos come with concentrated glosses, conditioners, and even wax.
Be sure to do your research on the best car wash soap products before making your purchase.
Besides the products, you will also want a microfiber cloth (for cleaning) and a separate sponge (for cleaning out wheels and tires).
Rinse It Right
The best car wash soap product work at their full capacity on a soaked vehicle. Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with water before you begin to wash.
After rinsing your car, concentrate cleaning one section at a time. Wash and rinse each area before moving onto the next one.
Typically, it’s best to start from the top and move your way down to the bottom. This will help avoid awkward spotting and can create a glossier look.
Take Care of the Wheels
Your car wheels take quite a beating (13,474 miles on average per year), and people often neglect them in the cleaning process. It’s important to take care of them.
You can use direct spray-on products, let it sit, and then hose it off. Or, you can use a separate sponge to use on just the wheels. Whichever cleaner you end up using, make sure it’s designed for your car’s specific wheels.
For tight areas, reach for an old toothbrush. It’ll help get the dirt out of all those nooks and crannies.
Wax On, Wax Off
After washing your car, you want to seal the luster and shine. A good wax or sealant will do just the job.
Apply wax to the cool vehicle and apply in a tight, circular motion with a pad or cloth. Be sure to use another clean microfiber cloth to buff it out.
Similar to washing, you want to go one section at a time. Spread a thin coat, and let the wax dry for several minutes (until it becomes a blurry, hazy kind of look). Then, buff it out.
Ideally, you should aim to wax your car at least every three months.
Wash Your Car Like a Pro!
It’s important to take care of your car, and that includes making sure it stays sparkling clean.
At Certified Master Tech, we’re passionate about all things related to car repair and keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape. But, if you still need help, you can try these car washing tips.
Also, be sure to check out our auto repair and auto service repair manuals!