Got an XA a little over a month ago. Winter in the Midwest is pretty bad but it was too cold to be washing it. But today it was nice I had the time, I decided to do it. WOW I bombed at washing it. I felt rushed, low-light didn't help, and the fact that it's the first time I've ever washed a new car probably had something to do with it. The only good thing that came from it was getting some nifty micro-fiber tools to help for under 25 bucks! In the process I even bumped the car with the nozzel of the hose giving two tiny scratches to the surface only visible from the top down. Tomorrow == ScratchX for me!
My only solace is the fact that I can go over to my fathers house tomorrow and rewash it, taking my sweet sweet time.

I wrote this for anyone who had messed up something they were a total newbie at to let you know, you aren't the only one. After all, this place is abounding with Car Genious' types. So, if they are on that end of the spectrum, you know there has to be someone on the opposite end, and thats me.

 

yeah you do have to take your time at washing your car...

took me about 3.5 hours to clean mine washed waxed rain-x vacuumed out

its i got a sexy lookin car once again

 

The first thing you need to do is relax. I've been washing my own cars by hand for over 25 years now, and I love doing it. Don't turn it into a dreaded chore that you just want to get done. Sometimes (like when it's cold out) it will be like that. But most of the time, I love washing cars. It's relaxing and I love to see the great results when I'm done.
Having the right equipment can make a huge difference. Simple things like: a good bucket, a good sponge or wash mit, the proper car washing soap, microfiber towels...etc can really help. I have a great pair of elbow-length, lined rubber gloves for hand washing in colder weather.
Also, using the proper technique is very important. Yes, there are several wrongs ways to wash a car. Do a little reading and follow the advice, but most of all..relax.

 

after you wash it a couple of times you'll get used to it

 

Wax your car at least twice a year. Wash it after a big snow storm (after the road is dry). I usually only take it to auto car wash (make sure its high quality one). Then I use this spray for between waxes. I just spray and wipe. If you do the wax and between wax, it is really easy to clean your car only by taking it trough the auto car wash.

 

i love washing my car, and acutually look forward to every saturday... so me and my baby can spend some time together.... i wax it once a month, vaccum and clean interior twice a month, and windex the windows twice a month, while actually washing the exterior/rims every week... a good regimine keeps the car clean