Who doesn’t love looking at their freshly polished car after getting dirty? After all, for many of us our cars are not simply a mode of transportation. We even give it a name and get attached to it like it’s a member of the family.
So it surely is a proud moment seeing your vehicle looking dapper again like it’s newly bought from the dealership.
But getting that perfect gleam isn’t always as easy as it looks. Especially if you decide to save more money by DIY-ing it.
It seems straightforward enough: just grab some polishers, microfiber towels, and you’re through. But the reality is that interior and exterior detailing requires a bit more practical knowledge than most of us realise.
With that said, there are common car detailing mistakes auto owners make that lead to upsetting outcomes.
Knowing what to watch out for can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Let’s get into these common mistakes to avoid below, alongside professional car detailing tips for your future needs.
Why Detail Your Car?
Auto detailing is the process of polishing a car’s interior and exterior parts until it returns to its near-original condition.
If you’ve been delaying having your car detailed for quite some time now, here are the benefits of auto detailing to give you that extra push:
- Enhanced overall appearance – car detailing restores your vehicle’s shine and boosts its overall aesthetic appeal.
- Paint protection – applying wax or sealant during detailing protects the car paint from UV rays, contaminants, and minor scratches.
- Improved resale value – a well-maintained, clean car has a higher resale value compared to one that’s neglected.
- Longer lifespan – regular detailing helps maintain the condition of your vehicle’s interior and exterior.
- Better fuel efficiency – cleaning the engine bay and removing debris can improve your auto’s efficiency and performance.
- Healthier interior environment – thorough cleaning of the interior removes dust, allergens, and bacteria. It provides a healthier environment for all passengers.
9 Common Mistakes in Auto Detailing to Avoid at All Costs
Without more ado, here are the most common auto detailing mistakes to avoid that car owners make when it’s time to thoroughly clean their automobile.
Not Cleaning the Car Thoroughly Before Polishing
Sure, it’s just minimally dusty. But that should not make you skip the important initial steps, which is to wash your car first and foremost.
Polishing a dirty car regardless of the dirt volume can drag around all that dust and grime and lead to scratches or swirl marks on your paint.
Use a proper car wash soap (not a dish soap!) and warm water to rinse away any contaminants. Afterwards, dry your car to prevent streaks and water spots.
Polishing Under Direct Sunlight or on a Hot Surface
Detailing your car under the scorching sun might seem like a good idea at first. But it’s actually a big no-no.
For starters, the heat can cause the polish to dry too quickly. It could then lead to streaks and a less-than-sublime finish. Besides, working on a hot surface can make the polish harder to work with.
It’s best to find a shady spot or wait for a cooler part of the day so your car gets the best detailing finish that you’ll be beyond satisfied with.
Applying too much Polish or not Enough
Finding the ‘Goldilocks zone’ for how much polish to use can be a bit of a challenge.
Too much polish and you’re left with a greasy mess that’s hard to buff out.
Too little, and you won’t get that deep, glossy shine you’re after.
The trick is to start small and add more if needed. Much better to add gradually than to overdo it from the start and ruin the result.
Using the Wrong type of Polish for your Car’s Paint
Utilising the wrong products can lead to uneven finishes or even damage.
Check your car’s paint type and pick a polish that’s specifically designed or recommended for it.
Always read the instructions on your manual or chat with an expert to save you a lot of trouble.
Using Dirty or Incorrect Polishing Pads
You don’t use a dirty sponge to wash your dishes, do you?
It’s counterproductive and can cause more harm than good. Dirty pads can scratch the surface of your car, for one, while the wrong type of pad can be ineffective or too harsh.
Always make sure your pads are clean and suited to the polish you’re using. A quick wash and inspection can go a long way in maintaining your car’s prime finish.
Relying on Home Cleaning Products
Resist the urge of grabbing whatever cleaning products you have at home for cleaning your car and ridding it of tar, tree sap, and other stubborn dirts.
Your kitchen cleaner might work wonders on countertops. But it can wreak havoc on your automotive paint and interior surfaces.
Household cleaners such as dish soap can strip away protective wax, damage upholstery, or even cause discolouration.
Only use products specifically designed for car cleaning.
Not Protecting Adjacent Areas from Polish Splatter
Ever gotten paint on your clothes while painting a room? It sure can be frustrating. The same goes for car polishing.
If you don’t protect areas like trim, glass, or rubber, you’ll end up with polish splatter in places it doesn’t belong to.
Use masking tape or dedicated protective covers to shield these areas. It’s a small step that can save you a big cleanup job later and keep every part of your car looking sharp.
Ignoring the Wheels and Tires
You may get caught up in making the body of your car shine. But neglecting the wheels and tires is a huge mistake.
These are the parts most exposed to dirt, grime, and brake dust, all of which can make them look bad and potentially cause long-term damage.
Give them a good scrub with the right cleaner and a dedicated brush. Don’t forget to apply tire shine to make them seem brand new.
Trust me, properly cleaned wheels and tires can help complete that polished look on your car from the inside and out.
Not Wearing Proper Protective Gear
Car detailing may seem like a harmless activity, but always safety first.
Many car detailing products contain chemicals that can be harmful if they come into contact with your skin or eyes or if you inhale them.
Wear gloves to protect your hands and goggles to keep any splashes out of your eyes.
If you’re working in a poorly ventilated area, a mask can prevent you from breathing in any toxic fumes.
It might seem like overkill, but wearing the right protective gear ensures you stay safe while getting your car to look its comeliest.
Final Thoughts
Aside from knowing the best practices in vehicle detailing, it’s equally crucial to learn about the don’ts or common pitfalls that can ruin your car polishing project.
For professional detailing services, leave it to our expert car detailers at GIA Smash Repairs. We offer only the best technicians to handle your vehicle with the utmost car care and make it look fabulous as new.
Get in touch with us today for an exterior and interior detailing job in Five Dock!