How to Detail Your Car Like a Pro

Detail like a pro

Detailing your car like a pro involves a combination of tools, techniques, and attention to detail. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Start with a thorough wash: Use a high-quality car shampoo and a wash mitt to clean your car thoroughly. Be sure to clean all areas, including wheels, tires, and undercarriage. This can be done with a wash mitt, a microfiber towel, and a detail brush.

2. Dry the car: Use a microfiber towel to dry the car completely, starting from the top and working your way down. I recommend large drying towels like this rapid dry one: https://amzn.to/3N4Gl1h

3. Clay bar the car: This step is optional but highly recommended. Use a clay bar and a lubricant to remove any contaminants from the paint surface. This will make the vehicle’s paint super smooth and glass like.

4. Polish the car: Use a dual-action polisher with a foam pad to apply a polishing compound to the paint surface. This will help remove any swirl marks and bring out the shine. You can do it by hand to, it just takes more time. There are different types of polishing compounds but meguiars ultimate polish is a great starting point. Here’s a link to it: https://amzn.to/40d0sNp

5. Apply a wax or sealant: Use a foam applicator pad to apply a wax or sealant to protect the paint surface and add depth to the shine. I recommend the chemical guys butter wet wax for a great traditional wet look that will last a couple months. Here’s a link to it: https://amzn.to/3UH4zQJ

6. Clean the wheels: Use a wheel cleaner and a wheel brush to clean the wheels thoroughly. Be sure to clean all areas, including the back of the wheel. Try out this wheel cleaner from P&S: https://amzn.to/3A0j4Wk

7. Detail the interior: Vacuum the interior thoroughly, including the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Use a microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner to clean the dashboard, door panels, and other surfaces.

8. Clean the windows: Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the windows inside and out.

9. Apply tire shine: Use a tire shine applicator to apply a tire shine product to the tires, giving them a glossy finish. Recommended tire shine for a deep wet look in an easy to use aerosol can: https://amzn.to/41aSfuz

With the advice listed above, you can detail your car like a pro and give it a showroom-quality finish. Remember to use high-quality products like the ones recommended and linked and take your time to ensure a thorough and professional-looking result. Good luck!

Stay Shining San Diego!