Guys, the last two times I washed the car I used Dawn dishwashing liquid. Is this a bad idea? The car looked great afterwards and boy do you get some suds.

Am I doing damage to the paint job. Is there any real difference with specific car washing solutions.

I really don't know and hope you guys can provide some insight.

Thanks

 

Dawn takes the wax off. Most of the guys use it right before they wax to take off the old coat. So its not necessarily damaging in itself, but it's stripping all your wax and leaving your car unprotected, not to mention dull looking. Some people say that Joy doesn't strip the wax at all, so if you wanna use dishwashing detergent, you could try that. I personally think car washes really help the wax last. Whatever you do- get some wax on that car ASAP!

 

What Daniele said. Use Dawn only if you want to remove the old wax buildup and plan to apply new wax right away.

 

It just so happens that i waxed the car yesterday after washing it. Boy did it look good! Any suggestions for car cleaners or a substitute for Dawn.

 

Go to your local auto store and buy the car wash liquid that matches the wax you're using. Manufacturers normally supply an entire line of car care products, so if you use Meguiars wax, use their car washing liquid.


03 G35
02 Sequoia

 

Thanks Chinee, right after work today. I 'll stop by the auto supply store and pick it up.

Thanks for the help!!