Car Detailing Mistakes to Avoid - Car Detailing in Plano

September 29, 2020

Car detailing in Plano is an intricate process that requires an immense amount of knowledge. Professional detailers are well-trained with expert knowledge about the different products and procedures to create an impeccable finish.

At Tommy Terrific’s Car Wash, we’ve spent years confidently perfecting our tricks of the trade to earn a reputation as the best car detailing in Plano. Here’s what industry professionals say about specific car detailing faux pas to avoid to keep your vehicle looks its best.

Car Detailing Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Not Cleaning Towels Properly

When washed properly, microfiber can last hundreds of washes, but following the right laundering procedures can deeply affect the effectiveness of the towel. Valerie Sweeney, vice president of ERC Wiping Products Inc. says that fabric softener should always be avoided, “Fabric softener will actually clog the small wedge-shaped filaments of the microfiber and render it useless.” Microfiber towels should always be washed separately from other fabrics and materials used in each part of the cleaning process.

  1. Waxing in Direct Sunlight

When done properly, waxing acts as a protective layer to keep your car looking glossy and new. This should never be attempted in direct sunlight or freezing conditions. In general, your vehicle doesn’t need more than 2 coats of wax. Not only does this waste product, but too thick of a layer won’t bond properly to the paint. Rather, use one coat of wax as a base later and use a second coat to fill in any missing spots.

  1. Using Dry Towels to Remove Missed Dirt

When a small spot of dirt is missed, don’t reach for a dry towel to wipe it off. This actually pushes dirt further into the paint and creates scratches. Instead, rewash the area to ensure all the dirt is removed. Similarly, using a squeegee to dry your vehicle is a bad idea, as it can create surface scratches in the paint.

  1. Cleaning Wheels and Tires Last

You may be used to cleaning your vehicle from top to bottom, but you should actually start with the wheels. Wheels and tires are generally the dirtiest part of your vehicle. When you wash these areas last, all that dirt, brake dust, and other contaminants will splash up onto the clean paint and surfaces above. Shine these areas first, and they’ll only need a quick touchup when you’re done washing the rest of your vehicle.

  1. Using Household Products to Clean

When you don’t have professional car cleaning products on hand, it can be tempting to use what you have laying around the house. But before you reach for household cleaners like dish soap, it’s important to consider that these chemicals can actually strip away wax and coatings that are in place to protect your paint. Be careful only to use dish soap when you want to remove all the wax from your vehicle’s paint.

Many car detailing mistakes can be easily avoided, but they can also be detrimental to your vehicle’s surface if ignored. When it comes to safe and professional car detailing in Plano, our car wash experts at Tommy Terrific’s Car Wash know a thing or two about what to do (and what not to do) to maintain your vehicle. Stop by today for an exceptional clean!