Well, I've searched and I've searched. I'm trying to find out the best procedure to wash and wax my car. Hey, for the trade in value!

Basicaly, my paint is trashed. Surface swirls, light scratches, dead bugs from years ago, tar, etc. Waxed last...hrm...that's a good question!

Any hope? I've been to maguiers.com and read up and got their perscription, but I'm still a bit of a newbie at cleaning my car (can't tell eh?).

Anyone have any product suggestions?

Part 2. Order of maintaince

1. Wash (2 buckets, one for soap, one for rinse), soft sponge, keep it clean, get the crap off it.
2. Treat with some kind of paint treatment (that's a mystery for me)
3. Use bug stuff / tar remover
4. Wax (one section at a time, buff off by hand after whole section is covered)

That's how I understand it. But then again, I'm clueless. I've been the type to let my car sit in the sun and not wash it for months at a time. I'd like to learn better habits for when I get my tC over the summer.

Thanks for any helpful suggestions or links =)

try searching maint and car care...

Thanks =) Get so used to only going to a few forums =)

I'm quoting myself since I'm too lazy to type a new reply :P

-Prewash Tips-

-Always wash in the shade.
-Clean your bucket and cloths before using them!
-Don't skimp on the car wash liquid. Put in a good amount for suds since they help lubricate and prevent scratching your car.
-Spray your car before washing to get out loose dirt and contaminants.
-Stand a few feet away for your car when using a strong hose.

-While Washing-

-Start at the top first, then work your way to the bottom.
-Wash the wheels and tires using a seperate tool and bucket.
-When spraying off the wash, use the sleeting effect of water to cut your drying time in half. Just take off the nozzle and let the water run on your car.

-While Drying-

-Use a clean chamois or absorber to dry it off.
-Use this time to take note of stubborn areas that might need more cleaning i.e. clay/polish
-Do not drop your dryer! If you do wash it thoroughly to prevent scratches.

-While Waxing-

-Work on small areas at a time.
-Use a minimal amount of wax since you'll be rubbing off much of it.
-a good cotton towel or t-shirt work great in removing and polishing the wax
-Multiple coats is good!
-Curing time for most waxes is thirty minutes. You can use this time to do some detail work like tire/plastic dressing, cleaning door jambs, etc.
-when your done waxing, you can use the towel to polish the windows to a streak free shine.
-wax also works wonders on headlights, windows, and tailights!

Time used - around 2-3 hours. Hope that helps!


http://www.scionlife.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=50417&highlight=

autopia.org can help you out with all your detailing needs.
i wash with 2 buckets, microfiber wash mitt.
then when the car is still wet, clay it with a claybar is get it really smooth and prep the surface
dry it off with a waffle weave microfiber cloth
paint sealant = klasse all in one its awesome, everyone raves about it
then you need a carnuba wax, like s100 or p21s and your done