Want to get your ride looking like it just rolled off the car lot? Well, of course you do, but not if it means going broke. Luckily, getting your vehicle to look its best doesn’t have to be a hassle—or a strain on your bank account. With the right set of tools, products and know-how, you can achieve a professional-grade finish on your own for a reasonable price.
Preparing to Detail
After you finish your basic wash, (check out our tips here), it’s time to start detailing your car. Before you begin, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary supplies and materials:
- Microfiber cloths
- Polishing towels
- Waxes or sealants
- A vacuum cleaner
Once you’ve gathered supplies, it’s time to start detailing.
Exterior Detailing | Polish it Up
Polishing your ride gives it a nice, extra shine while protecting its exterior. Once the vehicle is dry, apply a polishing compound like Chemical Guys VSS Scratch And Swirl Remover to a foam applicator and spread it evenly over the car. Then, buff the compound with a soft microfiber towel.
Exterior Detailing | Wax and Seal
Wax helps protect the exterior paint after polishing. Start by applying a thin layer of car wax with a clean microfiber cloth or applicator pad. Work in small sections, applying the wax in a circular motion. Allow the wax to dry for a few minutes, then buff it away with a clean, soft cloth. Repeat this process until the entire car is waxed. Your favorite Chemical Guys wax is easy to apply, and it can help protect your car from elements like UV rays, rain, snow, dirt and more.
Interior Detailing | Basic Surface Cleaning
Detailing your car’s interior first involves removing any trash or loose debris. Then, the goal is to remove dust, dirt, body oil and grime. For a deep clean like this, you’ll need a reliable interior detailer. We recommend using a product that not only helps remove debris from interior surfaces, but also aids in residue prevention.
Interior Detailing | Upholstery and Leather Touchups
Now it’s time to clean the seats. Whether your vehicle has cloth or leather- trimmed seating will determine which product you use for this, so make sure to check before you buy. Apply your chosen cleaner to a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub the leather or upholstery. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes before wiping away any residue with a clean, dry cloth. The cleaner will help remove dirt and other debris, making the interior look like new. It also helps to protect the seats from minor damage.
Streak-Free Glass
To apply glass cleaner to your car’s windshield and windows, first double check to make sure the area is clean and free of dirt and debris. Next, spray the cleaner directly onto the glass surface, making sure to cover all areas. Wipe the glass cleaner off with a lint-free cloth, making sure to use a circular motion and overlapping strokes. Once the glass is clean, use a dry cloth to buff the glass and remove any remaining streaks and smudges. Take care not to leave any residue on the glass, as it can attract dirt and dust.
Once your ride is spotless, snap a pic and tag us on social media for a chance to be featured.
Shop for Chemical Guys products on the Mopar® e-Store – https://store.mopar.com/chemicalguys
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