In previous years, synthetic paint sealants could be utilized to protect a vehicle’s paintwork; however, they did not sparkle like the older pastes your grandfather used to wax his classic 1990s Oldsmobile. Nowadays, there is a new generation of paint sealant allowing you to bond the subsequent layers over the paintwork; thereby, creating a double layer lasting up to twelve months (plus it looks better, as well). On average, it takes years for the customer to move from using hard wax to liquid paint sealant.
Not only are liquid sealants much easier and faster to use for car detailing, but they are also more durable. If you have not provided your vehicle with this level of car detailing, then this article will help walk you through the important steps if you are wanting to wash your car the right way all while protecting the paint.
- The Carwash
Something many vehicle owners do when car detailing is washing their car with dish soap. Do not utilize dish detergent to wash your car! It will damage the vehicle’s paint. Some people agree that you should also avoid using a wash pad as it is can be dropped easily; Thereby, increasing the chance of dirt on the paintwork. Some people also state that you should not use a wash mitt because the fabric cuff on the mitt can scratch the paint.
I recommend that you purchase the mitt and flip the cuff inward. No drops and no scratches. In previous years, people may have used clay bars to retrieve the tar, sap, and bugs on the paintwork; however, that is old news and there is a better option nowadays called the Nanoskin auto scrub. When the car is dry, spray on a detail lubricant and wipe it dry. You need to utilize the auto scrub only once when the paint’s surface feels rough, so you only need to perform a full car scrub two or three times per year.
- The Wheels
When cleaning your vehicle’s wheels, it is important that you find a cleaner designed specifically for your vehicle’s wheel material. The chrome option requires a harsher cleaning agent than anodized aluminum; furthermore, clear-coated wheels require a product that will not damage the coating.
It is recommended that you purchase a long-handled brush for additional leverage as cleaning brake dust off the wheel is a tiresome job. Clean the wheels, one at a time, and the begin application of a waxing agent. Polish the wax off once it starts to haze over. You only need to use this wax two or three times annually, so it is possible to skip this step regularly.
- Paint Sealant
Before applying anything to the vehicle, it is advised that you mix a bonding agent to the paint sealant to help increase protection. Blend one-quarter of a cup of paint sealant polish with one tablespoon of polish bonding agent – this should provide you with enough liquid to seal one coat of a Volkswagen Golf. While the measurements of the combination will vary according to the size of the car, it is recommended that you maintain the 4:1 ratio.
The paint sealant should be applied in circular motions to one quarter or one-sixth of the vehicle. For example, you can begin with the front fenders, the hood, or the front bumper as the first section. Once the sealants begin to appear hazy, buff it away using a towel in the same circular-style motion with which you applied it; then, move on to another section, such as the pillars, the side sills or the driver-side doors. Don’t forget to seal the roof as this is an important area of the car and can be damaged easily.
- Trimming Up (At Least Twice Per Year)
Nothing is as neglected by people during a car wash as the vehicle’s weather stripping, headlights, and plastic trim. Do not forget, rubber weatherstripping lines the windshields of a car, the perimeters of the windows, and the vehicle’s door jambs.
Over time it will start to dry out and begin to crumble. Sunlight can easily fade the black plastic trim and glazes over the plastic vehicle headlight covers. It is recommended that you utilize Plexus on the UV-vulnerable trim pieces and headlights, and opt for Pflege on the weatherstripping. Rub in the Plexus using a towel; however, you should leave the Pflege alone after application.
- A Monthly Interior Clean
Interior cleaners work well on all types of materials including vinyl, plastic, rubber, metal, leather, carbon fiber, and wood. This cleaner also offers UV protection helping to avoid any fading of color. The cleaner can be applied via spraying, and then wiped off using a microfiber towel. Stiff plastic bristles can dig into the wrinkled vinyl surfaces; therefore, working through hardened crusts.
If, however, the interior is a smooth plastic, it is recommended that you use a softer application instrument. Car detailing is the best choice anytime you are trying to get a carwash. Car detailing experts will take the burden of washing your car and leave your mind blown.
