Von Schledorn Auto Group Official Blog
Tips to Clean Your Car’s Exterior
By Product Expert | Posted in Service and Repair, Tips and Info on Friday, September 27th, 2024 at 1:27 am
How to Maintain Car Exterior at Home
Owning a stunning vehicle isn’t just about performance; it’s also about keeping that sleek exterior looking fresh. At Von Schledorn Auto Group in Milwaukee, WI, we understand the importance of preserving your car’s appearance, which is why we’ve created this simple guide on how to maintain your car’s exterior at home. You can achieve a showroom-worthy finish with the right tools and methods without ever leaving your driveway.
What Regular Maintenance Should Be Done on a Car?
How to Do Car Detailing at Home?
Start With a Pre-Wash Inspection
Before you begin, give your car a thorough once-over to identify any problem areas, including dirt buildup, scratches, or stubborn stains. Pay attention to your paint condition and note spots that may need special attention later.
Rinse and Pre-wash
Rinsing your car is the first step in losing dirt and debris, which helps prevent scratches during the wash. Follow up with a pH-neutral shampoo that’s gentle on the paint but tough on grime.
Clean Wheels and Tires Separately
Tires and wheels collect a lot of dirt. Use a specific wheel cleaner to tackle brake dust and road grime. A quality tire cleaner will restore the tires’ black shine.
Hand Wash with Care
Next, wash the car by hand using a microfiber mitt and a high-quality shampoo. Stick to the two-bucket method: one bucket for soapy water and one for rinsing. This reduces the risk of transferring dirt and causing swirl marks.
Apply a Clay Bar Treatment
A clay bar is one of the best ways to keep the exterior smooth. Gently glide the clay over your paint using a detailer spray. It removes embedded contaminants, leaving your paint as smooth as glass.
Polish for a Flawless Finish
A good polish removes minor scratches and restores shine. If possible, use a dual-action polisher for more consistent results.
Protect With Wax or Sealant
Apply a high-quality wax or synthetic sealant to lock in that glossy finish. This extra layer shields the paint from dirt, rain, and UV rays.
Don’t Forget the Glass and Trim
Your windows also deserve attention. Use a glass cleaner to remove smudges and streaks. For the trim, a dedicated restorer will bring it back to life, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
Final Touches and Inspection
After detailing, inspect the entire car for any missed spots. Buff out any remaining residue with a microfiber towel for a flawless finish.
How to Clean Your Car’s Interior?
Maintaining your car’s exterior at home can be easy and rewarding. Following these steps can keep your vehicle looking fresh while protecting its value. If you need more tips or products, contact us at Von Schledorn Auto Group in Milwaukee, WI!
