What Exact Steps Should I Do to Give My Car a Complete Detail?

O

Omagic

New member
I am a new poster, but long time lurker. I just got a brand new dark blue car and I'm ready to try my hand at really maintaining and upkeeping the paint and appearance. Before, I've just washed the car with whatever "auto soap" was onsale at WallyWorld and maybe once or twice threw on some Turtle Wax.



This is my first new car, so I'm ready to step it up. I've read many of the threads and stickies and my head is spinning. Can someone answer this question with the name of the products(not initials) that I should be using.



Also, this is where I get confused. Do I need a polish, then a wax, then a sealant? Can I use just one? If only one, which one should I use(polish, wax, or sealant). Or if two, which two?



Once that is answered, then:



Wash Soap? Which brand?

Polish?

Wax?

Sealant?



I don't mind spending a little money, but don't want to spend $50 on wax. Anything around 20ish is good for me.

I want ease of use. the easier the application the better.

Longevitiy too is great.

Best protection that also offers ease of use and longevity.



I know not everything will fit the bill, but there should be some that come close.



Thanks for all answers and tips!!!!
 
Wow, a large list of things....first, Megs gold class is a good over the counter shampoo. I personally like Megs Hyper wash, but not sure that can be bought over the counter anywhere. As far as polish, they will typically cover up any minor swirls or scratches while adding gloss, whereas sealants and waxes add protection. A good cheap wax is Collinite. You can use a sealant and wax, which will only add to the amount of protection, but it is not necessary. A good sealant that I like is Blackfire Wet Diamond. Keep in mind that you will wash more than you will polish or wax, so a major key to keeping a car looking good is proper washing techniques. Invest in two buckets with grit guards and use a two bucket wash. Also, use good wash media. I personally like to use boars hair brushes, natural sea sponges and microfiber towels for drying. I also use synthetic chamois and have not had any scratch induced drying. I would also invest in a quick detailer for drying...spritz some on while car is still wet and then dry...this helps prevent any marring. There is a lot to take in, but just do some searches, and you will find a ton of useful information.
 
Omagic said:
This is my first new car, so I'm ready to step it up. I've read many of the threads and stickies and my head is spinning. Can someone answer this question with the name of the products(not initials) that I should be using.



Also, this is where I get confused. Do I need a polish, then a wax, then a sealant? Can I use just one? If only one, which one should I use(polish, wax, or sealant). Or if two, which two?



Once that is answered, then:



Wash Soap? Which brand?

Polish?

Wax?

Sealant?



I don't mind spending a little money, but don't want to spend $50 on wax. Anything around 20ish is good for me.

I want ease of use. the easier the application the better.

Longevitiy too is great.

Best protection that also offers ease of use and longevity.
Click to expand...



You may need a polish depending on how the paint looks. You can do sealant and wax or you can do either by themselves. Given your budget, you should look at Ultima Paint Guard Plus and Optimum Opti-seal. These might be a little more than your $20 budget, but you use so little per application it lasts a very long time. These paint sealants are wipe on, walk away, so you apply it and that's all, no buffing, etc. For Ultima Paint Guard Plus, apply 3 coats 12hrs apart to start with, then apply another coat ever 4-6 months.



For wash soap I use Chemical Guys Citrus Wash. Adams Car Wash is also great.
 
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