Proper Washing and Waxing Adds Value to Your Vehicle

Proper Washing and Waxing Adds Value to Your Vehicle
More than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products when washing their cars - products that could contain harmful detergents, abrasives and additives. And almost half of motorists don't ever wash their vehicles.
"Waxing at least twice a year is recommended for maximum protection, yet surveys show that 48% of motorists don't wax their vehicles at all," said Jeffrey Webb, director of retail marketing at Turtle Wax, Inc. "That's leaving money on the table at trade-in time, as a clean, well-maintained car can be worth up to 50 percent more than one in "fair" condition,according to the Kelley Blue Book."
Motorists should avoid dish detergent, which contains harsh chemicals that, intended to cut through grease, will strip away the wax finish on your car. Some are hard to rinse off and leave streaks. For best results, a formulated automotive wash is recommended, one that gently lifts the dirt and grime while protecting the finish.
Washing your car on a regular basis protects it from the natural elements that harm the finish. The Car Care Council recommends the following do's and don'ts when it comes to do-it-yourself car washing:
Don't wash cars in direct sunlight. Do wash cars in shade or in cooler temperatures in the early morning or late afternoon.
Don't use dish detergent. Do use a formulated car wash.
Do fill your bucket with warm water and use a soft terrycloth towel.
Do spray the car often with water.
Don't scrub the car all at once. Do complete one section at a time, rinsing repeatedly to prevent the soap from drying on the paint.
Don't neglect waxing the vehicle. Do prep the car for waxing using cleaner/polish to remove contaminants. "The myth of not having to wax your car because you have a clear-coat finish is just that, a myth," Webb said. "Clear-coat finish is only as thick as a piece of paper and can become damaged from the effects of sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution.