In this case, mom and dad were wrong.
It is not OK to use dishwashing detergent when you wash your car because it strips the wax off, leaving the paint unprotected. Instead, buy a wash especially designed for cars.
Even though the weather changes, keep your car clean to protect its value.
“The purchase of a vehicle is a major investment,” said Troy Green, public affairs specialist for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “When most of us hear the term ?car care,? we immediately think of the internal workings of the vehicle.
“However, protecting the outer portion of your vehicle with proper washing and waxing techniques is just as important in maintaining the value and extending the life of your vehicle.”
Consider these points from Jeffrey Boone, Ed Kriston and Green, all of the Towson office of AAA Mid-Atlantic, headquartered in Wilmington, Del., to maintain your car?s luster.
Start by using a garage or a place away from the elements. The hot sun or cold air will make proper car care and cleaning hard, if not impossible and could be detrimental to your car?s finish.
Next, thoroughly wet down the car. This will remove dirt and road debris, which will cause scratches if you skip this step and start using a sponge and soap on the car. If it is a hot day, be sure to routinely wet the car so it does not dry suds or cleaning chemicals on it.
» Do move your car into a protected area. If the sun is warm, as it has been some days this winter, it heats the surface of the car, making cleaning more difficult. Cold air will have much the same effect
» Do thoroughly wet the car?s surface before you begin. If you don?t, the scrubbing may scratch the car.
» Do routinely wet the car if the weather is hot. That will prevent chemicals or suds from drying on the car.
» Don?t just use a regular sponge for cleaning. Good-quality brushes with handles are inexpensive ($15 and up) at discount stores. A handled brush also lessens your chance of back strain.
» Do make sure the car is completely dry in cold weather. That?s especially important in older models which may have locks that tend to freeze.
» Do completely dry the car before applying wax. A chamois will remove water quickly without residue or lint.
» Do consider paste wax. Many experts believe it gives the car?s paint the best protection.
On the web
» For more information on this and other auto issues, visit www.AAA.com.
