Spring-Clean Your Car

Wax On, Wax Off
All that winter rain, snow, road salt and extremes in temperature punish your paint. Winter literally wicks the life and shine from your vehicle's finish. Paint needs wax to keep from drying out, like your lips need balm to keep from getting chapped. A good coat of wax keeps paint shiny and flexible and protects against the forces of nature. Starting with a clean, dry surface and with the vehicle cool and in the shade, apply wax one section at a time. Let the wax dry to a haze and remove using a clean soft cloth. Never, ever try to wax a hot car in the sun. The wax bakes onto the paint and becomes extremely difficult to remove.

Time to Retire
Lastly, don't forget about your wheels and tires. The first step is to use the hose and a scrub brush to dislodge those stubborn deposits. Modern science presents a good number of spray-on cleaners that get the job done, but be careful to take note of compatibility with wheels and wheel finishes. After the wheel and tire are clean and dry, go ahead and dress up that tire to shine a little or a lot. Be careful not to get too much shine on the tire tread itself, as that stuff is slippery! Always drive slowly for the first few blocks after dressing tires. No sense trying to show off from the ditch.