Pulling into the underground garage I find another neighbor washing his car. Really. The car washing station in my building is rarely empty. Makes one ponder; Is it better to hand wash? I probably won’t, but they say knowledge is power.
I consult with our fave car guy, Big Al Heggs of Superstition Springs Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram. He says people find it relaxing. And it is considered a superior wash if you have the time. The bane of car washes–swirl marks. Those particular about car care evidently already know this. Turns out, there are right and wrong ways to wash a car. Who knew?
Before you begin–have the right tools. Where have we heard that before? No butter knives for screwdrivers? Experts say no dish soap, hand soap or anything other than stuff meant for cars. Regular cleaners can strip the wax. Use a big, soft sponge or mitt–no scrubber. And use a different sponge for the tires than for the rest of the car.
Rinse all areas with water before washing to remove loose dirt. Loose dirt and dust can cause scratches. Work on only one section at a time, washing and rinsing each area before moving to the next. You don’t want to give the soap time to dry. Pros say begin at the top then work your way around the car. Don’t spray, instead let the water flow over the car from top to bottom. Makes for a better finish.
How many of us are guilty of just blasting away? Yikes.
Here’s another surprise. Don’t move the sponge around in circles. It causes the dreaded swirl marks. Also don’t wash when the car is hot. Let it cool down first.
Drying? Do not air dry or drive around thinking water will fly off to a nice sheen. You’ll just get watermarks. You don’t want them on your Waterford, why on earth do you want them on the sweet baby that carries you from place to place? Use a chamois or soft, soft terry towel. Use a squeegee on windows and long stretches of the body.
There. Don’t you feel better? Now, you can flit about The Dale all shiny and new. How about a visit to Big Al for summer service. Call now to get deals on making sure your chariot makes it through summer on the surface of the sun. You can reach the service department, 877-297-8992.
The Duchess Diaries 