Plan Ahead
What does your vehicle need? The full package or a quick wash? New or recently waxed and polished vehicles need a car wash and a wax. However, if your car was exposed to the elements for multiple months without any washes, it needs more.
Rinse & Wash
Before washing your vehicle, rinse your car to ensure you’ve removed any debris and loose dirt. You can use car washing mitts and drying cloths to clean your vehicle’s surface more thoroughly. Once you have finished washing the body, clean the windows with an ammonia-free solution that’s meant for use on cars only. Then, switch over to a low-strength, acid-free pH balanced aluminum wheel cleaner and clean the wheels and tires.
Remove Bumps & Apply Compound
With a clay bar, gently buff away and tree sap and other contaminants attached to the car’s surface. Apply the compound with a dual-action polisher to smooth away tiny scratches that are beneath the surface. This compound only needs two to four coats.
Apply Polish (If Needed)
If you are going to polish your vehicle, dual-action polishers work the best. The oils give your vehicle that sleek, glossy look. Use an orbital buffer or a soft towel to apply the polish. Orbital buffers are faster, but you don’t have as much control over the finished look. If debris comes between the pad and your car while in motion, you could end up scratching your car.
Wax Your Car
Car wax doesn’t just improve the vehicle’s appearance, but it protects the paint from UV rays and helps retain its sheen. Carnauba and polymer are the two most common types of wax. Polymer costs a bit more, but it doesn’t haze or require long periods to set.
How Often to Wash a Car
How often to wash a car will depend on how you drive. Are you simply just running errands, or are you a bit more adventurous with your vehicle? If you are traveling from San Diego and Carlsbad for work, you should wash your car every two weeks and wax it every six months. If you’re taking your MINI vehicle off the beaten path for off-roading adventures, clean it as soon as you can.
How to Wash a Car: Tips
- Cleaning Supplies: Instead of hand soap, dishwashing soap, or household glass cleaner, use solutions that are designed to protect your car’s paint. Use a natural sponge or wool mitt to wash.
- Washing: Lather up your car with soap and clean the sponge with fresh water as you wash the car body, windows, tires, and wheels.
- Drying: Don’t air-dry your car, as this can cause swirl marks. Use a chamois or terry towel to hand-dry the surface.
Learn How to Wash a Car with MINI of Escondido
Would like you more information about how often to wash a car, how to wash a car properly, how to remove stickers from a car, or how to clean inside car windows? Give the MINI of Escondido service center a call today! We’re more than happy to provide additional car washing tips. While you’re here, be sure to browse our current service specials!
