In most cases, detailing mistakes are committed by newbies who don’t know the proper techniques for washing a car. Yes, detailing your car on your own is good. However, you need to have the skills and knowledge to do it. Otherwise, you could be doing more harm than good.
In this article we have listed five common mistakes people make and show you how to avoid them.
Using The Wrong Washing Supplies
The first step to detailing your car is preparing the tools. That means buying the right detailing supplies, removing any item that may damage the paint, and ensuring you have enough water. Many people, especially newbies, use dish soap or regular shampoo as a quick fix. Unfortunately, regular soap may contain chemicals that can strip off the sealant and wax from the surface. You should invest in quality car detailing supplies if you want to DIY car detailing. They will make all the difference you need to see in your car.
Using The Wrong Washing Practices
It is important to use the correct washing techniques to keep your car clean and shiny. Washing the car with the incorrect techniques, such as not filling the bucket with enough water, using the wrong car wash product, or scrubbing the car the wrong way can damage the paint.
If you don’t want to use water, you can use a waterless car wash instead. Just remember to always remove the loose dirt and particles from the surface before washing and don’t forget about the wheels as they carry the most dirt. Therefore, clean them first to prevent dirt from splattering on the surfaces you have already cleaned.
Not Using Microfiber Towels
This is another huge mistake that car owners make when detailing their cars. When you see a bug or tar on the surface, the first attempt may be to get a rug and remove it with whatever comes handy. However, it is advisable to apply bug and tar remover before cleaning.
Also, make sure that you use a microfiber towel to remove the dirt. Never substitute microfiber towels for something else. If you don’t have the towels, it is advisable to take the car for professional detailing to avoid ruining the paint. You can also use a car wash mitt since it holds the soap and water well and does not leave scratches on the surface.
Not Repairing Scratches Before Applying Wax
Waxing a car is a great way to protect its surface and keep it looking nice for a long time. However, if you don’t fix any light scratches before the final wax application, these will be much harder to remove in the future. Scratches in your car’s paint will cause the wax to not adhere properly, making them more obvious. Wax doesn’t work on fresh paint scratches, so you should make sure to get rid of them before waxing your car. So, make sure you buy a scratch and swirl remover for a smoother finish.
Applying Excess Wax
When you have not used wax before detailing your car, it is easy to assume that the more the wax, the better. You may assume that two layers of wax provide better protection than one layer. Waxing is crucial for the ultimate shine and protection. However, you need to apply it sufficiently and not excessively for quality shine.
Conclusion
These are five main mistakes of car detailing that you should avoid if you want to protect your car. Consider professional car detailing if you have no idea where to start or are afraid you might ruin the car.
