At the Car Wash

Washing your vehicle regularly not only makes your car look good, it makes you look good as well. Think of your car or truck as an extension of your wardrobe—it’s the way in which you present yourself to the public.

Regular maintenance is important, both inside and out. Accumulated dirt eventually works its way into the paint, leaving tiny scratches and dulling the surface. Rain, which has dirt and pollutants that can eat away at the finish, is not a substitute for a good washing, and you should be especially careful to wash off any salt resulting from storms or high winds near the coast. Bug carcasses that become stuck to the front bumper and grill will also eat away the paint finish, and often need to be removed with special solvents.

To prevent spotting after washing your car, use a detailing spray for the final rinse and dry immediately. Having your car waxed regularly not only imparts a beautiful shine, but also creates an invisible barrier between the elements and your finish.

Consider having your car fully detailed every few months, or at least twice a year to preserve seat coverings (especially leather) and prevent dust and grime for building up in all those difficult to reach nooks and crannies. Pay special attention to the inside windshield, as fumes from the vinyl and plastics on the dashboard can cause the windshield to fog over time.

A clean vehicle shows of pride of ownership, so give your 4 wheeled baby some love and take it on a date to the car wash.