Keeping the vehicle clean, both inside and outside is a necessity. The car is not only our means of transport, it is an investment that we must protect. Many people have an excellent insurance to protect the car from collisions, thefts and other inconveniences but they worry very little about the appearance of a good that in many cases has cost us a lot of money.
Here are some indications of how to keep it clean, free of dirt and corrosive agents, factors that if neglected will remove beauty and value to our vehicle. The advice is directed, mainly to the exterior care.
1. Do not wait for the dirt to accumulate to wash it
Our car has been painted with a coating that is 0.006 to 0.008 microns thick, so the sun’s energy, UV rays, acid rain, salt, air pollution, insects and bird waste, they represent a powerful enemy.
2. How often should I wash my car?
Washing it weekly will keep it in good condition and appearance. If it is rainy season, we recommend that after rain, remove the acidic chemicals from the water that remain on the surface, since once the drops have evaporated, they leave a mark that can permanently spoil the paint of the car.
3. Wash it by sections
You must apply plenty of water on the entire surface before you start to wash the car, to remove dirt and particles that are stuck together and could cause scratches. Wash and rinse each area thoroughly before continuing with another. It is recommended to start at the top of the car and continue around the car, so that the dirty water falls without staining the bottom.
4. Use of shampoo
If you use shampoo to wash your car, soak the sponge with plenty of foam from the solution, do not use the shampoo directly to avoid dulling the paint. Remember to rinse the sponge often and change it when it is badly damaged by another soft sponge.
5. How often should I wax my car?
There is no exact answer to suggest how often you should wax it. Many factors influence this decision.
For example …
- Type and color of painting
- Painting condition
- Local environment (normal conditions and extraordinary events such as traveling on muddy roads, excess of rain, etc.)
- Amount of hours that passes exposed to the exterior
- Quality of wax used and method of application
According to experts, you should wax the car between 4 and 6 times a year. The easiest is to use the “Grind Test” with a cotton towel to apply pressure on the paint, if this grinding is necessary wax again.
With regard to waxes, which is better, liquid wax or paste?
The difference between paste and liquid wax is pure convenience. Modern liquid formulas provide the same protection as the paste, and are easier and faster to apply.
6. How about taking it to the wash or car wash?
This fact saves you time and effort, as a machine is responsible for washing, rinsing and drying the vehicle. Although the level of cleanliness is not detailed, it is a good option if you are in a hurry.
7. Detailed cleaning
Use a separate sponge to clean the rims and rims. Wash the glass and the body with plenty of water. Open the chest and trunk to wash the parts that are not visible. Brush carpets and seats (if they are made of cloth) to remove dust. Use a moisturizer – skin protector for accessories that require it, without forgetting the steering wheel and the gear lever.
8. How to dry the car?
Do not allow the air to dry the car as the water evaporates leaving marks that you will have to clean again. Do not use a rough towel or an old cloth. It is recommended to use a suede (natural or synthetic) or terry towels, since they are materials that absorb water better, without damaging the paint, the water that remains on the surface can corrode the paint and generate oxidation.
- Avoid washing your car while the chassis is hot, that is, just after driving or after the car has been parked in the sun. Keep in mind that heat speeds the drying of soap and water, making washing more difficult and increasing the possibility of marks on the body.
- Wash the body with shampoo that does not contain detergents.
- Do not use flannels or fabrics to avoid the cobweb effect in your car.
- Do not use cosmetics that contain removers such as gasoline, thinner or any other solvent.
- Do not move the sponge in circles.
- Do not use a sponge that has not been previously washed, it could contain particles that damage the paint.
