Car care is more than just a few movements with a lance at a touchless car wash. It's a daily care for its appearance, which translates into comfort and... market value at eventual resale. Experts admit that a well-groomed paint job and a well-groomed interior not only provide an excellent showcase for the current owner, but also attract the attention of buyers, who are willing to pay even 10-20% more!
When washing and cleaning a car, first of all, good quality preparations count, but also technique. Car cosmetics can work wonders, but only if you apply them correctly. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes that can prove costly. And we're not just talking about the cost of wasted product and time.
Let's take a look at these most common home detailer mistakes and how to avoid them.
All-purpose car cosmetics tempt you with convenience and apparent money savings, but they won't give you the results you want. The paint likes a gentle shampoo without strong acids and alkalis, for the interior, anti-static preparations will work well, which will provide a shine or satin matte, and the rims are worth cleaning once in a while with the so-called "bloody rim" instead of washing up liquid. It is not worth saving - specialized preparations provide a better cleaning effect, and in addition - protect the surface.
This is one of the most common mistakes of novice drivers. Do you drive to the car wash straight from the company's parking lot, where your car has spent 8 h in full sunlight? You are making a mistake! The high temperature of the body or plastics in the interior makes car cosmetics evaporate too quickly. What is the result of this? First, the preparation has time to dry before it can penetrate the dirt. Secondly, smudges and streaks will remain on the cleaned parts. Try to wash the car in the shade, and in the summer season, preferably early in the morning, when the temperature is lower and the vehicle does not have time to warm up.
A good wash is essential. This is where process matters. Use a prewash, such as one that removes insects or bird droppings. Wait the designated time on the package. Too short a time = poor performance. Apply the shampoo: by hand, with a sprayer or glove. Again, wait. Only such a base guarantees great results and excellent adhesion of subsequent layers of care and protection products.
The kitchen sponge, the glove your dad used to wash his first car, the brush you used to clean the rims from sand a week ago.... No, these are definitely not suitable for washing paint. Experts recommend using microfiber gloves, and soft microfiber towels for drying. Good - and well-maintained (!) accessories are half the battle in care. Wash them regularly without rinses, and they will serve your car for a really long time.
More doesn't always mean better. Excess cleaner can - instead of helping - harm: attract dirt and create streaks. Use only the amount recommended by the manufacturer - this is enough to get the desired effect.
So honestly - when was the last time you cleaned the upholstery or air vents? Regular cleaning of upholstery, plastics and air vents not only improves aesthetics, but also prevents the growth of bacteria and unpleasant odors. A good car air freshener or fragrance pendant will neutralize unwanted aromas and add freshness.
Many drivers end their car care with washing the car, forgetting to protect it. A wet wax or quick detailer creates a barrier against dirt, UV rays and rain. It's a quick way to preserve the shine and protect the paint until the next wash.
Now you know what mistakes to avoid! A well-groomed car is not only a driver's calling card, but also a more comfortable and safer ride. Using the right car cosmetics and avoiding simple mistakes, you will enjoy the great appearance of your car all year round.
