Wash Me, Wash Me Right (How to Wash a Vehicle)
October 27, 2019
Most would agree they'd rather drive around in a clean, shiny vehicle than one coated with a layer of dirt. When warmer weather comes around, some of us are bound and determined to wash our own vehicles. And to protect the paint and its luster, there are a few things to keep in mind when you get out the bucket and soap.
- Cool body. It's not a good idea to wash a vehicle when the body is hot. If it's been sitting out in the sun or you've been riding around on a sunny day, make sure you cool your vehicle off by either moving it to the shade or wetting it down with cool water. The problem with washing a hot vehicle is that it's going to dry so fast, minerals in the water can form hard-to-remove spots on the paint. And some of those can be really difficult to get out. Best to avoid it.
- Slippery when wet. Make sure you wet your vehicle down thoroughly before you get the washing mitt out. Experts keep a couple of buckets of soapy water on hand, and they use soap especially engineered to remove dirt from a vehicle without stripping off the wax that might be on it.
- The washing mitt. Experts say to use a mitt with hundreds of moisture-absorbing strands on it. Start washing at the top and move down. If you keep dipping the mitt in the buckets frequently, a minimal amount of dirt will stick to it and that will prevent scratching the paint.
- Wheels last. Wait until you've finished washing the body before washing the wheels. Some detailers prefer special wheel-washing tools or brushes.
- Rinse it well. Hose the vehicle off thoroughly to get all the soap off, then dry immediately. Some people swear by a chamois, others like cloth better. Cotton or microfiber towels will do.
The next time you have your vehicle in for maintenance, you might ask your service advisor for recommendations on vehicle washing accessories. They are usually up on the brands that produce the best results. You may not be a detailing pro, but there's no reason your vehicle can't look like you are.
Charlie's Fast Lube Sparta
10 Northtown Drive
Sparta, Illinois 62286
618-443-6112
http://www.charliesfastlubesparta.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Sparta

Do you have a Clue (Get the Most Out of a Service Visit)
June 29, 2025
When you head to the doctor, you probably have it in your mind what you're going to say about why you don't feel good. That way your doctor can use that information to diagnose your problem. You might want to think of that same approach when you take your vehicle in for a repair. Experts say wha... More

Busted! Air Conditioning (Air Conditioning Maintenance)
June 23, 2025
Your vehicle's air conditioning is something you count on when the weather heats up. But there's bound to be a day when you turn it on and one of these things happens: Only warm air blows out Cold air starts blowing out but then it turns warm on its own It's not blowing air at all It blows smel... More

Bump in the Road (Alignment)
June 16, 2025
There's something you can do that helps your tires last longer, wear more evenly and your vehicle handle better. "Sign me up," you say! Wondering what that is? It's aligning your wheels, and it will literally point you in the right direction when it comes to a better and safer driving experience... More