Proper cleaning is essential to maintaining your Classic Car’s vintage look. Removing dirt and grime protects your car’s finish, prevents costly rust, and ensures your car looks nice as you cruise the open road and attend car shows across Canada. But using the wrong supplies or techniques could cause costly damage. Avoid common mistakes as you learn how to clean your classic car properly and protect your investment.

Wash Frequently

Ideally, wash your classic car each week. Your everyday car probably doesn’t get washed as often. Take time to remove bugs, dirt and grime as you protect your car’s finish and prevent rust. Clean the interior immediately if spills, leaks, or drips happen. Certain liquids could cause stains, attract pests or promote mold growth.

Buy Correct Cleaning Supplies

Your classic car needs specialized TLC. Using the wrong supplies, like everyday dish detergent or hand towels, could scratch the paint, strip protective wax or leave lint residue. Stock the correct auto detailing supplies, including:

  • Sheepskin or cotton chenille washing mitts and towels
  • Soft leather chamois or microfibre drying towels
  • High-quality soap with no abrasive additives
  • Ammonia-free glass cleaner
  • Clay kit bar
  • Toothbrush with soft bristles

Invest in the right supplies to properly clean your vehicle’s interior. Depending on your vehicle’s interior, you may need upholstery vacuum attachments, stain-removing chemicals, dust clothes and spray.

Use Effective Techniques

A commercial car wash might be convenient, but you’ll want to wash your classic car by hand. As you clean every inch of your vehicle, look for marks, scratches or other imperfections. And utilize time-saving techniques that also protect your car.

First, use two buckets to prevent contamination. Fill the first bucket with soap and water. Then, rinse your dirty cloth in the clean water that fills the second bucket.

Next, wash small sections at a time and work from the top to the bottom.

Also, scrub the wheels last since they’re typically the grimiest part of the car, and apply a tire conditioner.

Finally, polish any chrome to protect its shine and enhance your car’s appearance.

Don’t Let the Car Drip Dry

After you wash and rinse the car, wipe off all the excess water. Even pure water can contain minerals that leave marks on the paint. Dry the undercarriage and other hard-to-reach spots, too, since pooling water could cause rust damage.

Scrub Off Stubborn Contaminants

While learning how to clean your classic car, you may use a dry or dirty cloth to scrub off stubborn dirt, grease or grime that’s difficult to remove. This technique could damage the paint. Instead, apply a detailing lubricant and use a clay bar to smooth rough spots.

Don’t Wait for a Sunny Day

Sunny days are ideal for long drives but retreat to a shady spot on wash day. And only wash your car when its surface is cool to the touch. Soap evaporates quickly on hot surfaces, creating unsightly streaks and spots.

Don’t Forget to Wax

Apply two coats of wax to the classic car you drive regularly every six to eight weeks. One coat could be enough, but consider two coats to ensure complete coverage. Ultimately, the wax makes your car’s paint shine, hinders fading due to UV damage and prevents various contaminants from clinging to the surface. Remember to apply wax in the shade to an excellent car to reduce hazing.

Don’t Overlook Hidden Areas

In addition to cleaning your car’s visible exterior and interior, remember hidden areas. Open the bonnet and wash the engine. Take your time and remove all the grime with clean rags and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Check for spills, leaks, corrosion, and other wear as you pass the engine components. Other overlooked areas include door handles, sills, mirrors, and boot lips.

Don’t Purchase Too Many Products

Of course, you want to invest in quality products to clean your classic car. Fortunately, you don’t need to fill your garage with specialty items like an industrial pressure washer or foam cannon. Start small with the right tools and practise your technique. Then, stock up on supplies as you need them.

Classic car cleaning requires patience, elbow grease and time. Likewise, avoid common mistakes as you learn how to clean your classic car. Your effort protects your investment. In addition to good cleaning habits, contact Wayfarer to request a quote and gain further peace of mind.

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