Wash your car regularly to maintain its appearance and protect it from long-term damage. While it’s common to take your car or caravan to a mechanic for engine issues, many overlook the importance of exterior upkeep. Proper care of the paint, glass, trim, and wheels can significantly extend your vehicle’s life and value.
We’ve all seen how vehicles rust over time especially when neglected. Emissions can eat away at paint and metal, even in dry weather. When you wash your car, you help prevent damage caused by road grime, bird droppings, tree sap, and extreme temperatures. These contaminants can be surprisingly corrosive if left unchecked.
Beyond just aesthetics, making the effort to wash your car can also contribute to your safety. Clean windows, mirrors, and lights ensure better visibility on the road, while removing grime from tyres and wheel arches can improve traction and reduce wear. A clean car not only looks better—it performs better too, especially when road conditions are less than ideal.
How to Wash Your Car the Right Way
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My first tip would be to wash your car in the shade if possible. Many of us are quick to whip out the sponge and bucket on a sunny day, but you will have noticed that the vehicle has dried before you’ve even finished, leaving soapy streaks everywhere – not what you are looking for!
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Some say you should begin from the top and work down when you wash your car, making sure you regularly clean your sponge to prevent the spread of dirt and contaminants. Also, the lower part of the car is generally the dirtiest, so it’s a good idea to leave this until last.
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To wash your car properly, you will need a fresh, constant source of water, a set of clean sponges and car washing soap. Do NOT use a substitute for this, such as washing-up liquid. You don’t want to damage the paint with the harsh chemicals contained in soaps such as this. Car washing soap is specifically designed not to damage the paint, which is the last thing you want!
- The best way to begin is to wash your car using only water. This will clear away any grime and dirt that’s loose. Then go over it again using new water with the car soap mixed in. Make sure you take care with this, as aggressive movements will be abrasive and are more likely to cause damage than anything else.
- Be sure to wash your sponge regularly to prevent the build up and spread of dirt.
- When you have done a final rinse of clean water, dry the vehicle with a soft towel or chamois cloth, making sure to soak up all excess water.
- After you wash your car, choose a good wax which will protect your paint and reduce the appearance of smaller scratches and abrasions. It will also enhance the colour of your vehicle and add shine. It is recommended you wax your vehicle three or four times a year. Wax with a foam pad in circular motions, then wipe off when the wax turns ‘hazy’. Give your gleaming vehicle a final check to remove any residual wax build-up and you are good to go!
Regularly taking the time to wash your car will prolong its value and appearance, and it can also help you spot any problems early—while they’re still easy to repair.
If you need further advice on the best way to wash your car, call us on (07) 3269 3158 or reach out to us. We are located 113 Connaught Street Sandgate QLD 4017. Feel free to visit us at any time.