Maintaining your car’s exterior is an important part of being a responsible car owner. Regularly detailing your car will protect it from the natural elements that can wear it down, but there are ways to maintain your car’s exterior between detailing appointments as well. Doing so can help preserve your car’s paint job, and reduce the frequency of detailing services. In this article, we’ll walk you through the importance of maintaining your car’s exterior and provide you with tips on how to keep your exterior looking fresh between vehicle detailing appointments.
The Importance of Exterior Detailing
Washing your car on a regular basis is important in preserving its paint job. Washing removes dirt and debris from the surface and can help prevent scratches and rust from forming. When washing your car, use a mild soap made specifically for auto detailing, and a soft, microfiber cloth or mitt. When rinsing, use a garden hose to avoid the excess stress of a high-pressured hose intended for cars, especially if you’re unfamiliar with using one. Avoid using a wire brush or terry cloth wash rags, as these can cause fine scratches in the paint’s finish.
Waxing Your Vehicle
Applying wax to your vehicle can protect it from the sun and other elements. Synthetic waxes offer protection from contaminants and ultraviolet rays and will last up to 6 months. Apply a thin layer of wax to the exterior of your car with a foam pad or soft rag, working in small sections using a circular motion. Allow the wax to haze over before buffing off with a clean cloth.
Wax should be applied every 3-6 months and should be applied in a circular motion (as said above). Begin in the middle of your vehicle’s hood and work outwards in an outward-moving spiral. In between detailing and waxing, car owners should protect the paint from the elements with a protective spray. This helps keep dirt and debris from sticking to the paint. It should be applied after every few washes, and will help extend the life of the paint job.
To Apply Sealant, or Not to Apply Sealant
In addition to waxing, you may also want to consider a paint sealant. These sealants are made up of synthetic polymers that adhere to the paint and form a protective layer against contaminants. Apply the sealant to panels in small sections and buff off with a clean cloth. The sealant is especially important for vehicles that are regularly exposed to the elements, such as rain, snow, salt, and/or salt water.
Other Helpful Products and Tips
Protecting the paint on your car can also be done with a detailing spray. Detail spray is a quick and easy way to give your car’s paint a deep gloss, and added protection against pollutants, sunlight, and water. Detail spray can also be used to remove small scratches that accumulate over time.
One of the best ways to maintain your car’s exterior is to keep it covered when not in use. A car cover will help protect against the elements and maintain the look of your vehicle’s exterior. The other crucial and best thing to do to maintain your car’s exterior is to inspect your car regularly to check for areas that may need attention. Small scratches and chips can often be buffed out with a rubbing compound or touch-up paint. Keep in mind that larger dents may require professional repair.
Having a regular auto detailing appointment scheduled is another crucial step to maintaining b0th the exterior and the interior of your vehicle. It can not only keep your car looking new and protect against damages and wear, but also help regularly inspect your vehicle to catch any sign of damages early. You can opt for the traditional model or the newer, mobile option. Mobile Detailing Pros offers a wide variety of detailing services to a large service region across the nation for a reasonable cost. Visit our website or call today to schedule an appointment with our expert detailing technicians in your area.
With a few simple steps, car owners can easily maintain their car’s exterior between detailing appointments. Taking care of the exterior of your vehicle can help keep the car looking new for years to come and can even help increase its longevity! It’s crucial, however, to remember that professional auto detailing services are necessary; DIY detailing can be risky and we do not recommend it.
