When it comes time to either sell your car, or maybe you just want it to look nice and pretty, you’ll want to sharpen it up and clean it the best you can.  You can either take it to your local detailing shop for a hundred dollars or so, or you can do-it yourself for a few bucks.

Know your supply list

Before we get started, let’s figure out what you’re going to need.  There are many great kits that you can buy online for as little as a few dollars.    Check out the supplies that you will need on this auto detailing supply list.  Things that you’re going to need are items such as car wash shampoo, conditioner, wax, tire protectant, detailer for the inside, and more.

Washing your car

When it comes down to washing your car, make sure you try and park it in the shade.  That way, when you’re washing it, you’re not going to get the spots on your car from drying it too fast.  Rinse off any of the dirt with either a power washer or hose.  From there, you’ll want to use the cleaner that you had selected.  You can either wash it by hand with a rag or sponge.  Make sure that get all the spots, including under the car.

Waxing your car

After you wash your car, it’s going to be time to wax it.  This is whats going to give it that shine.  Before you wax, you want to make sure your car is as spotless as you can get it.  If you need too, this may be a great time to use touch up paint to get rid of some of the dings and scratches on your car.  Select a wax that fits your needs and wax away.

Don’t forget the inside!

By now, your car should be sparkling clean on the outside.  After you work hard at cleaning the outside, it’s now time to move onto the inside.  You’ll want to get dashboard cloths that will work on your dash.  You’ll want to wipe down your dash, clean off any windows.  The last thing you’ll want to do is shampoo your carpets.  After you let the shampoo settle, you’ll want to vacuum it as your last step.

By now, your car should be looking great and smelling new.  If it smells bad, a small air freshener won’t hurt you.  Detailing your car does take time, but it can save you a lot of money!