How often should I clean my car? When I say that, how often should I do a fully-detailed clean v.s. a regular wash just for maintenance?

I'm really new to my G35 Coupe and I'm just letting all these pollen and crap from the tree pass away by my driveway to let it run its course. I just want to get more savvy and more informed in terms of maintaining and keeping the integrity of my vehicles interior and exterior. Truly a beginner for sure.


Thanks!

KK.

 

KK sounds like you'll have a mess to deal with once you decide to get your G clean. Here's a list of items you're going to need:
Wash bucket and sponges (hose if you don't have one)
Auto wash soap (brand doesn't matter)
Mothers clay and spray bottle for water
Applicators (several)
Microfiber rags, never hurts to have a bunch.
Zymol cleaner wax that's a very good place to start!
Watch a car care vid here on DRIVER so you'll understand which steps to take and I won't need to explain it to ya. Washing and using clay will be important to removing all the krud on your painted surface....don't forget the glass/windshield! Once you get your G clean and polished look into getting a car cover to keep it clean since you leave it outside. Have fun and Good Luck!
Gary

 

I wash my car once a week b/c it don't see a garage any more (When i had a garage it was every 2 weeks maybe 3). Now i wax my car every 2 or 3 weeks depends on how it feels. and i do a full detail at least once a year or before a car show.

 

Thanks Gary! Do you happen to have a youtube channel that you do vids on?

 

You also may want to check out Autopia and/or Autogeek. Claying your car will help you to get a glass like smoothness.

 

Normally I go about this.. Once a week I wash my car (debating on the weather) and once a month a do a general detail on my car. Goes as the following.

• Chemical Guys Snow foam Wash with Honey Dew
• Chemical Guys wheel cleaner
• Clay bar (autozone works)
• A nice buffer low cut polish
• Chemical Guys Butter Wet Wax

This keeps the black on my car looking excellent!

 

You shouldn't have to polish your car more than twice a year max especially is there is good LSP on it. Glazes really bring out the depth of black cars' finishes.

 

what about p21s ...... I love that ****!

 

P21S makes excellent products. I have moved to the dark side (Zaino) but may have to pick up a wax for the summer.

 

When my car gets dirty I run my finger down a painted panel and if its smooth i just do a regular wash, if my finger makes noise (like basketball shoes on an indoor court) then its time for a full wax/polish. I live in the south and wrestle the ridiculous pollen EVERYDAY also and i use a "California duster" that wipes the pollen off in the morning. Its really a big microfiber brush....i don't know if that brand is still around