EXTERIOR Detailing in 12 steps

12 simple steps for exterior detailing of your own vehicle

Supplies Needed

• Car wash soap

• Two buckets

• Hose or pressure washer

• Microfiber wash mitt or sponge

• Soft bristle brush

• Wheel cleaner

• Chamois or Microfiber towels

• Clay bar*

• Car wax or paint sealant*

• Wax applicator pad*

• Tire cleaner and brush*

• Glass cleaner

• Bug and tar remover*

*optional

1. Gather Your Supplies

2. Choose a Shaded Area

   Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight. A shaded area is ideal to prevent the soap from drying too quickly and leaving water spots.

3. Pre-Rinse

   Use a hose or pressure washer to pre-rinse the car to loosen up dirt & debris

4. Wheels First

   These are often the dirtiest part of your car. Use a wheel cleaner and a soft bristle brush to scrub the wheels, including the rims, and tires. Rinse thoroughly.

   You can also use an IRON Remover to help liquify brake dust, industrial fallout, etc.

5. 2-Bucket Method

   Fill one bucket with soapy water (use a car wash soap) and another with clean water

   You can also use a one bucket method, ensuring the mit is rinsed after every pass

6. Wash the Car

   wash the car top down, one section at a time. Rinse the wash mitt in the clean water bucket frequently to remove dirt

7. Rinse

   After washing each section, use the hose or pressure washer to rinse thoroughly. Make sure all the soap is removed

8. Clay Bar *

   If your car has contaminants or rough spots such as sap on the paint, a clay bar will tackle these hard to remove areas with minimal to light pressure

9. Dry the Car

   With your choice of either a shammy or microfiber, Pat the surface dry

10. Tire and Glass Cleaning

    Clean the tires with a specialized tire cleaner, Clean the glass with a glass cleaner and microfiber cloth, and take your time to best remove streaks

11. Wax or Paint Sealant, or ceramic coating*

    when applying, use a quality car wax or paint sealant to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. Follow the product instructions

    when deciding between these paint protections, you must take into consideration how long you want your vehicle protected.

    Typical wax, polished and sealants last 2-3 months. Ceramic Coatings, however, can last up to 6 months to 2 years, depending on how many often it’s driven.

12. Last touches

    Clean and polish any metal trim, clean the door jambs, and apply tire shine if desired

* = optional