Summer in Texas is not just a season of intense heat and strong UV radiation, but also a time when...
Car detailing involves thoroughly cleaning, restoring, and finishing your vehicle to achieve showroom-quality cleanliness and polish. Detailing the outside of your car, including the engine bay and wheels, can significantly improve its appearance and protect it from environmental elements. In this guide, I will take you through 26 steps to expertly detail the exterior of your car, ensuring that it looks as good as new.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin the car detailing process, it's essential to gather all the necessary supplies. This includes car wash soap, detailing clay, microfiber towels, a wheel cleaner, a tire brush, and various brushes and applicators. Thorough cleaning and preparation are key to achieving a pristine finish.
Step 2: Remove the License Plate
Remove the license plate and clean it and the surrounding area thoroughly.
Step 3: Place Hose Guides Under Wheels
Place hose guides under the wheels to allow the pressure washer hose to move around the car freely without getting stuck.
Step 4: Rinse the Car
Start by rinsing the car with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
Step 5: Apply Chemical Wash
Apply a diluted degreaser to help lift and soften road grime before proceeding with the main wash.
Step 6: Wash the Wheels
Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and a tire brush to clean the wheels thoroughly.
Step 7: Clean the Engine Bay
Apply an engine degreaser and use a detailing brush to gently agitate and rinse away after allowing it to dwell. Use a microfiber to add a protector to the engine components. Be cautious around electrical components. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or towel to remove any excess product and ensure the engine bay is completely dry.
Pro Tip: Tub O Towels work great for light maintenance cleaning.
Step 8: Use a Foam Cannon
Use a foam cannon to apply a thick layer of car wash soap. The soap acts as a lubricant while washing to minimize scratches.
Step 9: Hand Wash
Wash the car using clean microfiber towels. Fold the towel into fours so that there are eight sides, using a clean side of the towel for each panel.
Pro tip: Don’t double-dip your dirty towel into the wash bucket. Instead, have extra clean towels to keep your water clean, and dirt cannot cross-contaminate, resulting in scratches.
Step 10: Clean the Gas Cap
Use a clean microfiber towel and an all-purpose cleaner to clean the gas cap and surrounding area.
Step 11: Clean the Door Jambs
Open the door, thoroughly clean the door jambs, and thoroughly clean the rubber door seals because the crevices can become caked with dirt.
Step 12: Use a Clay Bar
Utilize detailing clay to remove embedded contaminants and achieve a smooth surface.
Step 13: Apply Rinse Aid & Rinse Car Thoroughly
Rinse aids allow water to bead up and flow off the car quickly. They are especially helpful for rinsing away the soap and grime removed during washing.
Step 14: Dry the Car
Use a clean microfiber towel to dry the car thoroughly, starting from the top and working your way down.
Step 15: Polish
If necessary and the budget allows, consider using a car polish to restore the paint's shine and remove minor imperfections.
Step 16: Clean the Glass
Utilize a DIY recipe of half isopropyl alcohol to half water in a spray bottle and a clean microfiber towel to clean the windows and windshield.
Step 17: Clean the Exterior Lights
Using a plastic cleaner, polish the headlights to restore clarity and improve visibility.
Step 18: Detail the Emblems
Use a variety of Q-tip sizes and a microfiber towel with polish to shine all of the emblems on the car. Be thorough and polish from multiple angles so that no portion is forgotten.
Step 19: Clean the Exhaust Tips
Remove soot and buildup from the exhaust tips using #0000 Steel wool and finish by polishing with metal polish.
Step 20: Clean the Wheels (Again)
Give the wheels a final once-over to ensure they are spotless and free of any remaining residues.
Step 21: Clean and Dress the Trim
Remove polish or wax residue from the trim using an all-purpose cleaner and a detailing brush. Use a trim restorer to rejuvenate faded or discolored exterior trim pieces.
Step 22: Apply Paint Sealant or Wax
Protect the paint by applying a sealant or wax to enhance shine and provide a layer of protection.
Step 23: Dress the Tires
Apply a tire dressing to enhance the tires' appearance and protect them from UV damage.
Step 24: Final Inspection
Perform a final inspection to ensure that all areas of the car have been adequately cleaned and detailed.
Step 25: Apply a Quick Detailer
Use a quick detailer to enhance the gloss and remove any final smudges or fingerprints.
Step 26: Take After Photos
Once you've completed the detailing process, take after photos to showcase the transformation of your car's exterior.
By following these 26 steps, you can expertly detail the exterior of your car, including the engine bay and wheels, to achieve a professional-level finish. Remember to take your time, use the right products and tools, and, most importantly, enjoy restoring and enhancing your vehicle's appearance. Good luck, and happy detailing!
Schedule a Detailing Appointment Today
If tackling the process of detailing your car's exterior feels overwhelming, fear not! We're here to guide you through the steps needed to achieve stunning results. If you prefer to leave it to the professionals, simply schedule a detailing appointment with us by selecting the service and time slot that suits you best.