DIY Car Detailing: Frugality Can Come At A High Cost

The Most Common Car Detailing Mistakes To Avoid

Many car owners take pride in taking care of their vehicle. For many, car detailing is not just about making a car look good, it’s about protecting it from damage, prolonging its lifespan, and maintaining its value. Unfortunately, many car owners make common mistakes that actually cause damage to their car’s interior and exterior. Learning how to properly detail a vehicle is essential to avoid making mistakes that cause long-term damage.

Did you know that the most common car detailing mistake is using the wrong cleaning products? Many car owners are not aware that not all cleaning products are suitable for all types of cars and their surfaces. Using the wrong products cause damage to the car’s paint, interior, and other delicate surfaces such as leather. Using products that are designed for a specific type of car and surface is crucial. Ironically enough, using too much of a cleaning or detailing product can attract more dirt and debris to a car's surface by leaving a residue. Using the recommended amount of the product and reading the instructions carefully before applying is the best method of practice.

Speak to an Expert Today!

Contact Us

Detailing for Your Budget

The Most Common Car Detailing Mistakes To Avoid

Speak to an Expert Today!

Contact Us

Ironically enough, using too much of a cleaning or detailing product can attract more dirt and debris to a car's surface by leaving a residue. Using the recommended amount of the product and reading the instructions carefully before applying is the best method of practice.

Another common mistake is not drying the car properly after washing, causing water spots and damage to the paint. Using a soft, clean towel, such as a microfiber towel, is recommended to dry the car thoroughly in order to prevent scratches and damages to the car’s surface. Applying too much pressure while removing debris from the surface of a car’s exterior can also cause scratches or swirl marks on the car’s paint. Using gentle pressure and a soft cloth or sponge will prevent this problem. And of course, avoiding abrasive materials like steel wool or hard brushes is a must, as they can cause even more damage to the surface of a car.

Simple Car Detailing Mistakes Cause Unwanted Results

A beautiful bright and sunny day may look like the perfect opportunity to get outside and wash a car in the driveway, but washing a car in direct sunlight can actually cause the cleaning products to dry too quickly. This causes streaks and spots to appear on the car’s surface, taking away from the time and effort it took to attempt spot free results. It is best to wash a car in a shaded area, or during the cooler parts of the day to avoid this problem. It will also allow for more time to clean the car and ensure that cleaning products are not drying too quickly before being rinsed and dried.

For some car owners, waxing a car is seen as an optional and unnecessary cosmetic enhancement. In truth, waxing can help protect the paint from damage and keep it looking shiny. Skipping the wax can cause the car’s paint to fade or become dull. It is essential to wax a car regularly, at least once every six months, to keep it protected.

Clean wheels may also seem like a waste of time for some, due to the wheels’ constant contact with dirt, debris, and grime. In reality, it is this frequent contact and accumulation of dirt, brake dust and other debris that causes damage over time. Cleaning wheels regularly with a wheel cleaner or degreaser will help keep them looking their best and prevent unwanted damage while driving on the road.

While DIY car cleaning is a common go-to option for most car owners, hiring a professional mobile detail service can ensure a car is properly cleaned and protected. When cleaning a car, it is important to do it right and avoid these common mistakes. While the cost varies depending on the type of services chosen, car owners can rest assured that all of these detailing mistakes will be avoided under the car of a professional car detailer. Just as a car owner takes pride in their vehicle, a professional detailer takes extra pride in the excellence of their work.