Detailing your car is both an art and a science. The science aspect of detailing involves the chemicals, equipment and knowledge of vehicle surfaces. The art aspect of detailing is the procedures used along with the science to create a beautiful and successful detailing job for your car.

The 5 top tips for detailing your car exterior are:

1. Wash your car thoroughly. This step of detailing involves using a lot of water to simply wash away dirt, grime, and other crud that has built up on the surface of your car’s exterior. Start with the engine bay first, which is usually the dirtiest place on the car. Any splatters that spray out and land on the body can be washed off in the next step. Wearing protective clothing and goggles will help you from getting sprayed with crud as well. Be careful to keep water away from the computer and electronic modules which may be housed under the hood. Once the engine bay has been finished, clean the tires and wheel wells next. Because the car’s body is the most important part in the final show-off of shine and beauty, it is the last to be washed. It is possible to get a decent washing with some of the quick-cleaners that are available on the market. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on how properly apply these waterless cleaners.

2. Claying is an important step in detailing your car exterior, as clay is able to remove ground-in or stuck particles which could end up causing scratch marks on your car’s beautifully shined surface. Claying should be done whether your car is old or new, and will help to produce a shine that will look fabulous. » Read more: Detailing Your Car Exterior