How often do you wash and wax your car? Unfortunately, the answer is probably not often enough if you’re like most people. This blog post will discuss how to keep your car’s exterior looking great with minimal effort.

We’ll go over some basic tips for washing and waxing your car and some more advanced techniques that will help protect your paint job from the elements. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to keep your car looking great for years to come.

Top Benefits of Keeping Your Car’s Exterior Pristine

Why does it even matter if your car’s exterior looks its best?  For one, looking at a clean and well-maintained car is just plain satisfying. But there are also some practical benefits to keeping your car looking its best.

A well-cared-for car will be easier to sell when the time comes and fetch a higher price. If you lease your car, you may also be required to keep it in good condition.

Whatever your motivation for keeping your car’s exterior looking great, follow these tips, and you’ll be able to do just that.

Wash Your Car Regularly

One of the best ways to protect your car’s paint job is to wash it regularly. This will remove any dirt or debris that could potentially damage the paint. If you live in an area with a lot of pollen or dust, you should wash your car weekly.

If you live in an area with heavy rain or snow, you should wash your car more often to remove any salt or other chemicals that could damage the paint. With that said, here are the steps for washing your car:

  • Fill a bucket with water and car soap.
  • Wet your car down with a hose.
  • Start washing from the top of the car and work your way down.
  • Rinse the soap off with the hose.
  • Dry your car with a clean towel or chamois.

car exterior getting waxed

Wax Your Car Twice A Year

In addition to washing your car regularly, you should wax it at least twice a year. This will help protect the paint from the elements and keep it looking shiny and new.

Many different types of wax are available on the market, so be sure to read the labels carefully to find one compatible with your car’s paint. Here are the steps for waxing your car:

  • First, apply the wax to a clean, dry car.
  • Work in small sections and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Next, buff the wax off with a clean towel or chamois.
  • Repeat as necessary until the entire car is waxed.

Use Paint Protection Film

One of the best ways to protect your car’s paint is to use paint protection film. This is a clear plastic film applied to the car’s surface that acts as a safeguard against harsh weather conditions, acid rain, stones, sand, and road debris. Don’t attempt to install the PPF by yourself, there’s a huge chance you’ll end up with wrinkles everywhere. That’s exactly why it’s recommended to let the professionals like Sun Stoppers do the job, one of the best companies that install paint protection film in Charlotte, NC.

Use A Car Cover

If you don’t have a garage or carport, another great way to protect your car’s exterior is to use a car cover. This will keep your car clean and dry when it’s not in use and protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Be sure to find a cover specifically designed for your make and model of car. This will ensure a snug fit and proper protection. Here are some tips for using a car cover:

Be Careful When Parking

Next, be careful when parking your car. Avoid parking too close to other cars, as this can cause door dings and scratches. If possible, park in a garage or covered carport to keep your car out of the elements. 

Also, be mindful of your surroundings when parking. Avoid areas with a lot of construction or landscaping work, as this can kick up dust and debris that could damage your car’s paint.

Use the Right Cleaning Products

It’s important to use the right cleaning products on your car. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the paint. Instead, opt for gentle cleaners that are designed specifically for cars. 

You can usually find these at your local auto parts store. When in doubt, ask a salesperson for help choosing the right product.

Get an Annual Detail

One of the best ways to keep your car’s exterior looking its best is to get an annual detail. This is a thorough cleaning and polishing of the entire car, inside and out.

A professional detailer will be able to clean your car more thoroughly than you could on your own and will also be able to spot any potential problems before they become serious.

Take Care of Your Windows

Don’t forget about your windows. Keep them clean to maintain good visibility, and be sure to repair any chips or cracks as soon as possible. 

Chips and cracks can spread quickly, so it’s important to take care of them immediately. You can usually find repair kits at your local auto parts store.

Practice Safe Driving Habits

Make sure to practice safe driving habits. This includes obeying the speed limit, using your turn signals, and being cautious when changing lanes. Driving dangerously not only puts you at risk of getting into an accident, but it can also damage your car.

Don’t Forget About the Tires

If you want your car’s exterior to look its best, don’t forget about your tires. Keep them inflated to the proper pressure, and have them rotated and balanced regularly. This will help extend their life and improve your gas mileage.

Use Undercoating

If you live in an area with harsh winters, using undercoating on your car is a good idea. This will help protect the paint from salt and other environmental hazards.

You can usually find undercoating at your local auto parts store. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying it.

Take Care of Your Car’s Exterior

By following these tips, you can keep your car’s exterior looking its best for years to come. Taking care of your car is an important part of ownership and will pay off in the long run.