Car Detailing Guides: Find the Answer for Your Next Job
Whether it’s a full wash or one stubborn mark, you should be able to find a sensible next step quickly. Choose the problem below. I’ve grouped the guides by the work you’re doing, with buying advice beside the methods it supports.
For a visual way to find a method, open the Detailing Garage and choose the part, material and cleaning problem.
Washing and drying
Start with how to wash a car properly, then refine the parts that need attention.
| The job | Method | Choosing the kit |
|---|---|---|
| Contact washing | Two-bucket method | Shampoo · Wash mitt |
| Pre-washing | Using snow foam | Snow foam · Foam lance · Pressure washer |
| Drying | Drying the car | Microfibre cloths |
| Changing conditions | Winter washing · Hard water · No-hose washing | Building a complete kit |
| Tool care | Washing microfibre | Enough clean changes for the next job |
Wheels, tyres and glass
Follow alloy-wheel cleaning, choose a suitable wheel cleaner and check which brush will fit. Finish with even tyre dressing.
For visibility, use the glass-cleaning method and glass-cleaner buying guide. The touchscreen guide covers the display separately.
The cabin
Begin with the complete interior routine, then choose the surface-specific answer.
| Surface or problem | Guide |
|---|---|
| Seats | Fabric · Leather · Alcantara |
| Floor | Carpet mats and rubber liners |
| Overhead | Headlining |
| Embedded hair | Dog-hair removal |
| Cleaning tools | Car vacuum · Detailing brushes · Extractor or wet-and-dry vacuum |
| Chemical preparation | APC dilution tables |
| After cleaning | Fabric protection |
Deposits, paint and finishing details
For targeted cleanup, choose bird droppings, insects, tar or iron fallout. If the paint remains rough after suitable cleaning, assess clay preparation.
For the finish itself, compare polish and wax, follow hand polishing and choose between wax, sealant and coating routines or a spray sealant.
Separate guides cover faded trim, cloudy headlights, fabric soft tops and matte paint.
If you’re unsure where to begin, plan the detail here. If the job is clear and the purchase is next, use my product starting points.