How to Keep Your Car Looking Like New

USA – “How often should I have my car washed?” That may be the most frequently asked question of all time. The answer depends on whether you want to keep your vehicle looking like new or merely maintain its appearance until the next reconditioning process, which will eventually happen anyway. Most people take their cars in for a wash only when the vehicle starts to look dirty or if they want to show it off prior to selling. In either case, you need to know how often your specific model should be cleaned and what products work best on different surfaces.

The following is a list of common car models and how often they require a wash:

Trucks and SUVs:

For those who travel off-road on a regular basis and don’t mind the extra work, these models can go approximately four months between washes. Light-colored interiors may need to be cleaned more often.

Convertibles:

These vehicles really show their age as dirt and dust accumulate on soft surfaces like cloth seats and convertible roofs (if equipped). If you drive this type of car regularly, plan on having it washed every two months. The good news is many detailers offer mobile services so you can have your convertible washed in your own driveway or at your office parking lot. This saves time and eliminates the hassles associated with transporting a dirty vehicle to a commercial automatic wash facility.

Conventionals:

You can go two months (at the longest) between washes before these vehicles start to look dirty. Dark interiors may need to be cleaned more frequently than lighter-colored upholstery.

Hybrids and Electric Cars:

As with conventional models, dark interior fabrics should be cleaned more frequently. However, exterior surfaces are usually free of dirt and grime because there is no fuel system or oil to leak onto paint, which makes washing this type of car relatively easy.

Pickup Trucks:

This category varies depending on how often the vehicle is used for hauling things like yard work equipment or furniture. If you transfer your clothes from the washer/dryer into a truck bed for delivery or use it as a moving van, you may need to have it washed every four weeks or so. Dual rear wheels and fiberglass caps should be cleaned more frequently to prevent the buildup of dirt and road grime.

Hatchbacks:

The average vehicle in this category is usually driven much less than a truck or SUV, making it possible to go three months between washes. Once again, dark interiors tend to show dirt more quickly than light-colored fabrics.

Minivans:

You can go as long as six months between washes if these vehicles are used primarily for family trips and errands rather than off-road ventures. Neutral colors tend to hide stains better but require frequent vacuuming regardless of the upholstery color. Like hatchbacks, minivans also have a tendency to accumulate road salt during the winter months.

Luxury Vehicles:

For many owners of expensive luxury cars, appearance is everything and they tend to be washed on a weekly basis regardless of how often they are used. This group includes sports cars like Porsches, BMWs and Mercedes as well as SUVs like Range Rovers and Lexus models. If you drive one of these high-end vehicles every day, plan on having it detailed every two or three months, depending on how dirty it gets between washes. Some car wash companies offer mobile services for this category so there’s no need to tussle with traffic just to keep your vehicle looking its best.

Paint Care Advice

While many car owners understand that regular washes are needed to keep vehicles looking their best, they aren’t always sure what products and techniques work best on specific surfaces. The following advice can help:

Wash Exterior Surfaces:

Always use a mild detergent and soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using dish soap because it strips away protective wax and leaves your vehicle with a dull appearance. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly and check for missed spots before moving on to the next phase of the wash process.

Wash Interior Surfaces:

Use a gentle cleaner like Soft Scrub or Formula 409 mixed with water (one part product, three parts water). Dampen a sponge or microfiber cloth in the mixture and wipe down all interior surfaces except leather upholstery. For leather, a product called Leatherique is recommended by the experts at Meguiar’s. Apply it with a soft microfiber cloth and allow it to penetrate for about 15 minutes. Before wiping it away with a clean damp cloth. If you notice any areas that need additional attention, apply the Leatherique again. And use a toothbrush to work it into cracks and crevices.

Conclusion:

Regardless of where you live, you’re driving habits and the condition of your vehicle. Keeping it clean is always a good idea. Even if you can’t do it as often or thoroughly as you’d like. Washing your car every two to six months. It is better than letting the dirt build up until your vehicle looks like. It should be featured on “Monster Garage.”