Protect Cars from Scratches

This wikiHow will teach you how you can prevent your car from scratches as best as possible. Dirt is not your friend so keep your car as clean as possible. Scratch prevention need not be hard work, however dirt and grime are abrasive and can lead to nicks and scratches.

Steps

Hand Washing Your Car

  1. Starting at the roof of the car, rinse downwards using a water hose or bucket of cold water. Rinse the accumulated dust and dirt from the car.
  2. Read the instructions on the label of the car wash. Add the recommended amount of car wash into one of the buckets and then fill it with warm water.
  3. Place the sponge/mitt into the bucket of water. Squeeze it in the soapy mixture to ensure it is completely wet, then begin cleaning the car from the roof downwards using a circular motion.
  4. Add water into the second bucket.
  5. Frequently rinse out the dirt from the sponge/mitt in the second bucket of warm water. This will help to keep the bucket with the car wash and your sponge/mitt free of dirt.
  6. Save the wheels and tires for last. Use the second sponge/mitt for this. You can continue using the two different buckets. If the soapy water is not getting the wheels clean, you may have to use a stronger based cleaner or add more of the car cleaner for the wheels.
  7. Consider using a slightly abrasive sponge to clean the wheels. They are more likely to have oil or grease deposits on them from contact with the road.
  8. Dry the car using the microfiber drying towel. This is the most recommended material for cleaning your vehicle. Stay away from using bathing towels or beach towels when drying your car, they may be too rough for the paint and in turn, leave scratches.

Waxing Your Car

  1. Find a shaded area for your car before applying the wax. This will stop the wax from drying to fast which can make it difficult to rub off.
  2. Read the product instructions on how to apply the wax.
  3. Place the recommended amount of wax on the foam applicator that came with the wax or onto the clean microfiber cloth.
  4. Starting at the roof of the car, apply the thinnest coat of wax that you can. Use a circular motion to all of the bodywork.
  5. Grab a clean microfiber towel. Buffer in circular motions to remove all of the wax.

Tips

  • Hand washing is much safer than automatic car washes. Though if you are in need of a quick wash, touch-less car washes are the best option.
  • Specialist car cleaning products tends to be a milder soap and specifically designed for automotive paint and will not strip of the layer of protective wax.
  • Other vehicles or a poor road surface can often throw up stones or debris onto the vehicles around them.
  • Car wax is important! It's like sunscreen for your car. It protects from the harsh rays of the sun and allows for the shedding of water.
  • The type of wax you use is at your discretion, check your car's user manual for suggestions before purchasing wax product.
  • Apply the wax once when new, and then again 2 to 3 times a year.
  • When choosing a wax, be aware that there are some wax products available for black/darker colored cars and some for lighter colored cars.

Warnings

  • Avoid parking close to where pedestrians are walking past your vehicle, this can avoid any unintended scratches.
  • Avoid parking too close to other vehicles as someone opening their car door can cause a dent or scratch on your vehicle if parked too close.
  • 2 Clean microfiber drying towels
  • Do not use a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt from the paintwork as this will cause scratches.
  • 2 buckets
  • 2 large clean soft natural sponges or a lambs wool mitts
  • Do not place objects or sit on the bodywork of the car as this can cause scratches.
  • Be aware when filling your car with gas/petrol any spillage onto the paintwork can dull the shine.
  • Refrain from parking under or close to trees, branches can fall off and you risk the paintwork being damaged.
  • Make sure the vehicle is completely dry before beginning to apply the wax as a wet surface will leave streaks on the vehicle that are hard to remove.
  • There are no benefits to applying a thick layer of wax, it only makes it tougher to buffer. Poly foam wax tends to be the best for achieving a thin, even coat.

Things You'll Need

  • Water supply
  • A cleaning product dedicated to car-wash
  • Car wax product
  • Car detail spray (optional)

References

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