When it comes to automotive detailing, it covers numerous topics.Basically, it involves carrying out a regimen on a routine basis be it weekly or bi-weekly. The aim of this process is to maintain (and if needed restore) the paintwork to what it was like when the car left the factory. Gone are the days that a simple wash was enough to be classed as detailing. Instead it covers numerous areas which will be discussed below.
For anyone that’s in the know, they would know that automatic car washes are strongly discouraged. There are a lot of steps involved in detailing a car, and by carrying out the steps properly, it means that you’ll greatly minimise the chance of you putting scratches and swirl marks into your cars paintwork.
Of course, you’ll be needing to invest in the proper tools for any car detailing regimen. A common misconception by many is that you should wash your car with a sponge. This is actually highly discouraged. Instead, it’s much better to use a wash mitt, be it microfibre or lambswool. A big choice by many is just exactly what shampoo they should be using when carrying out a routine wash. Some will simply opt for using normal dish wash soap when washing their car which is a strict no-no. This kind of soap is not designed to be used on a cars clear coat. There are a wide variety of car shampoos on the market which vary in costs and also in quality, with there being numerous types from popular brands such as Autoglym and Meguiars. These shampoos are specially formulated to ensure that they actively protect the paintwork during the washing stage by preventing the use of harsh chemicals which are normally found in dish soap. Moreover, some car shampoos also have other additives in it to nourish the paint, or contain a wax in in to give an extra shine to the paintwork.
Protecting the paint is a must
However, it’s not just washing the car that you need to think about. After you’ve rinsed it off, it’s really important that you dry the car off. The reason for this is that if you don’t then it can result water spots forming on the clear coat. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be pretty difficult to remove further down the line. It’s just an additional step that you need to do in order to look after the car, much like how you dry your hair after you’ve washed it.
Depending on the severity of the paintwork, you may want to polish it. This can be done by hand based on the product that you use, or instead by way of machine. There are numerous options available to you, but the most popular form of machine polishing is using a Dual Action polisher. This is also deemed to be the safest form of machine polishing.
Of course, you’ll also want to add a layer of protection to the paintwork, much like you’ll add protection to your skin in the summer months. There are numerous forms of paint protection available, and these come in the form of sealants and waxes. You could also go one step further and install a protective film on the car, more commonly known as a clear bra.
Don’t forget the wheels
An area that many people completely overlook is the wheels and tyres. These are by and large the dirtiest part of your car, and yet many neglect them. This neglect can range from a simple wash with an old rag, all the way through to not even cleaning them. However, this in itself can cause issues, especially if you have alloy wheels. When it comes to detailing wheels and tyres, you need to take various things into consideration such as what cleaners to use, as well as what kind of tools you’ll use for the task. These range from dressing applicators, to the various brushes you’ll need to carry out the cleaning regimen. Much like you’ll want to protect the paint, you’ll also want to protect the wheels as well. As with other detailing products, there are a variety of products on the market, such as Instant Tyre Dressing from Autoglym.
Clean your glass properly
Whilst there are some shampoos on the market that are also great for cleaning glass, depending on the type of driving that you do, it might be more beneficial to to opt for a dedicated glass cleaner. Doing so will make sure that your glass stays cleaner for longer which is extremely beneficial in the winter months.
Using the right tools for the job
No matter what detailing task you’re going to undertake, it’s crucial you use the right tools for the job. There are lots of different types of equipment that you need to consider when it comes to detailing. We have covered this more in depth over here.