The Detailing Syndicate

If your vehicle has been routinely exposed for years, it stands to reason that your paint finish has experienced oxidation. This breakdown of the compounds in paint makes finishes look dull and lifeless. If not taken care of, it will eventually render the paint worthless and require a brand new coat. This is obviously not ideal since the job comes with a high price tag. There are ways, however, to remove oxidation and at minimum buy you some time before a complete overhaul is necessary. This is done through the process of paint correction, and there are a few steps to this exercise.

Give Your Car A Bath

Even though this task will not remove oxidation, it will aid in its success by clearing the metal for correcting compounds. From top to bottom, use a pressure washer to push away debris and have the surface be as smooth as possible. This will help the paint bond, which is essential in combating oxidation.

“Oxidation removal is a two tiered process, the first being the addition of compounds, and the second being the use of a sealant. The coat waxes place over rubbing and polishing compounds prevent oxidation from spreading if you aren’t able to successfully remove every troublesome area”

Rubbing Compound Vs. Polishing Compounds

Opinions vary on the best ways to eradicate spots caused by exposure, but one aspect that is not up for debate are which compounds should be incorporated. Detailers will tell you that extensively oxidized areas require a rubbing compound, or ‘heavy’ correcting compound. It is basically the industry standard in the paint restoration field. Using an orbital machine, the substance should be spun on the entire car, with special attention to oxidized spots. Areas that do not appear damaged must be buffed over as well to ensure the finish is solidly consistent. If you are only trying to get rid of small amounts of oxidation, a ‘correcting’ polish can be used alone. This should be rubbed the same way as the heavy compound, and uses ingredients that are rust resistant. To get rid of as much oxidation as possible, going through heavy correcting compound, to correcting polish, to a finishing polish is most beneficial.

Seal With A Wax

Oxidation removal is a two tiered process, the first being the addition of compounds, and the second being the use of a sealant. The coat waxes place over rubbing and polishing compounds prevent oxidation from spreading if you aren’t able to successfully remove every troublesome area.

Don’t Forget Your Headlights!

Headlights are defenseless from the sun’s rays as well, and as such, can become just as oxidized as the finish, if not more so. If you do not have access to appropriate cleaners that removes the ‘film’ UV light creates, use a toothpaste that has baking soda as its prominent ingredient. This works by dispersing the oxidized residue, causing the headlight to appear clear and healthy again. Toothpaste, or a beam restoration cleaner, should be rubbed in with an applicator pad, and then cleared with a soft microfiber towel.

Conclusion

In actuality, the best way to remove car paint oxidation is taking advantage of the experienced hand extended to you by professional auto detailers. With access to top shelf compounds and cleaners, and an eye for detail, there is no rival to their solid expertise. Using auto body enthusiasts guarantees the job is done right.

In order to understand what paint correction is, it must be differentiated from a total paint job itself. The latter is a complete overhaul of the car, painting the exterior as if it were going to be delivered to a dealership. Correction on the other hand is more spot check driven, but that does not mean it isn’t occasionally extensive. Paint correction is the process of solving a myriad of problems on the finish. It can cost a bundle, but almost always isn’t as pricey as a complete paint job unless the highest quality compounds are used. But what does this exercise encompass?

“Foreign agents and the sun’s UV rays are the cause of most oxidation. Paint correction’s role in eliminating this issue is through various compounds that attempt to bring back its natural appearance”

Removing Oxidized Spotting

Restoring paint frequently includes treating patches on the car that have experienced oxidation. These areas look brown or gray and are essentially the ‘death’ of the paint. Foreign agents and the sun’s UV rays are the cause of most oxidation. Paint correction’s role in eliminating this issue is through various compounds that attempt to bring back its natural appearance. It should be mentioned however that advanced stages of oxidation will require more than standard correction.

Eliminating Buffing Mistakes

Paint correction is also a fancy way of performing touch ups on the hood and body that ‘hide’ mistakes in buffing and polishing from someone that was inexperienced. These swipe lines are called ‘swirl marks’ and make the car appear as if it has gone through a car wash but never got fully rinsed. Before it is properly buffed out by an orbital device, the swirls look like smudge marks and uneven lines.

Correcting ‘Dry’ Wiping

If you have ever rubbed your car with a dry, rough surface, you have likely been directly responsible for scratching the clear coat. This is particularly a problem when moisture-free buffing pads are moving at high speeds, disrupting the paint and sometimes leaving deep scrapes. Through paint restoration, these tiny crevices are filled in and sealed over to make a seamless finish. You can tell if your paint could use some correcting if on your fingertips the body of the car does not feel glossy. Dry wipes also make the car look dirtier since dust inhabits the small slivers.

Removing Contaminants

Impurities are stubborn and frustrating because they hurt a car’s aesthetic while also changing the integrity of the paint. Paint correcting services use a clay bar to get deeply penetrated particles that can cause moisture problems, and eventually, rust. Applying polishing compounds should not even be done unless contaminants have been eliminated entirely.

Conclusion

At its core, paint correction is a task that gives each car a facelift and promotes a healthy shine. Even more important than its outward sparkle is the fact that it is sealed and can ward off oxidation and debris in the future. The job itself is very rewarding, but only if conducted by professionals whose expertise lie in the application of specific chemical compounds. Not being knowledgeable in placing them on an automobile can result in thousands of dollars worth of damage, causing the whole paint surface needing to be redone from scratch.

Paint correction is typically the most time consuming prospect you can undertake with your car because it must be done with a precise, steady hand to guarantee the results are worthwhile. Of note is that different detailers have methods they trust, so the exercise itself varies from detailer to detailer. That being said, at its core, there are 5 main steps to the restoration process. So how do you get started creating a beautiful new paint job?

“Washing the car is to clear off the surface area as much as possible. Sometimes contaminants are embedded, and this is where a clay bar comes in. This substance penetrates deep into the finish to eradicate foreign elements and any problematic impurities”

Wash And Clay Bar The Vehicle

To give yourself a blank canvas to promote a healthy paint finish, first it is essential you wash the automobile thoroughly. Machine washes are fine, but if you plan on investing heavily on correction a clean by the hand is recommended so you can go panel to panel with precision. Washing the car is to clear off the surface area as much as possible. Sometimes contaminants are embedded, and this is where a clay bar comes in. This substance penetrates deep into the finish to eradicate foreign elements and any problematic impurities.

Heavy Correcting Compound

Usually there are three layers applied during the correction process. The first is the heavy compound, which works to positively affect the deepest scratches. With an orbital polish device, the substance should be placed on a foam applicator pad, also known as a ‘cutting’ pad. These pads typically come with the compound itself. Moving slowly and at minimal spin speed, polish each surface of the car moving panel to panel in a systematic fashion. Remember, an orbital polisher can rotate so quickly it can actually damage the clear coat, so only move up to comfortable speeds after you have established that the correcting compound is not being rubbed in generously enough.

Correcting Polish

The second substance placed on a separate pad, the correcting polish treats minor scratching and light swirls on the hood and body. In the same way as the heavy compound was placed on the vehicle, move methodically all over the paint, even on areas you feel do not need treatment. To make sure the paint correction is even and consistent throughout the entire finish, the whole surface area needs to be addressed.

Finishing Polish

The last of the substances, the finishing polish more or less ‘cleans up’ the residue left by the heavy compound and correcting solution. Even though an isopropyl alcohol rubdown is still recommended afterward, finishing polish will help the reflection of your car from scattering due to all the inconsistencies that were caused by scratches previously.

Isopropyl Alcohol Wipedown

Finally, non-polar compounds on the finish are dissolved by wiping the car down with isopropyl alcohol. This is basically a fancy way of saying that leftover oils and run off residue are removed. This step can be accomplished with a soft pad or towel that has a light, forgiving surface.

Conclusion

It cannot be stressed enough how quickly money can disappear from your wallet if you are not experienced in paint correction. Cars worth thousands of dollars can incur massive damage by breaking the bond of the paint job by applying compounds incorrectly. Because of this, the most prudent path is to harbor the strengths and skills of professional detailing experts, who can provide flawless paint restoration with ease.

Even if you take the utmost care of your ride as a car owner, eventually cleaning the carpets will be a necessity. The heavy traction and inevitability of debris will render it filthy over time, however there are ways to restore the fibers to have them looking brand new. Additionally, with the proper cleaners, the odor can have that coveted ‘new car’ smell. Auto detailers are the experts in getting vehicles back to showroom caliber quality, so what do they use on carpeting?

“Similar to how bleach is more effective at getting stains out of a white t-shirt, the same is true of shampoo, in that some are better equipped than others… detailers use automotive grade chemicals that penetrate deep within the carpet”

Vacuum Regardless Of Carpet Type

Various threads and fibers encompass hundreds of carpeting types, but no matter which your car is full of, vacuuming is essential. It is a mistake to assume you do not need to vacuum if you do not see any visible debris. Dust and foreign particles are embedded, and the longer they are there the harder they will be to get out. This is why carpet mats smell old and musty after years of neglect. Vacuuming should be carried out with a high powered suction source in vertical lines, just as you would address your household.

Air Compressors Help Problem Areas

Automotive experts do not always need them, but sometimes an air compressor is helpful in clearing difficult spaces. These include things like pet hair and hard to reach folds. If you ever decide to use a compressor, it is essential you start from a distance to guarantee there is not too much force on the carpeting itself.

Match Shampoo With Fiber Type

If you are in the boat of not knowing what type of fibers are in your car’s carpeting, checking the shampoo labels will notify you if you are safe to use the detergent in most cases. Similar to how bleach is more effective at getting stains out of a white t-shirt, the same is true of shampoo, in that some are better equipped than others. Detailers use automotive grade chemicals that penetrate deep within the carpet. This is applied through a shampooer that they run over fiber-filled areas numerous times.

Steam Cleaning In Extreme Cases

Steam cleaning devices are different than standard carpet shampooers because they use more heat for extraction. The warm, (sometimes near boiling) water lifts stains effortlessly, but if you have thin fibers it will tear them out of the mat. Cleaning with high temperatures should only be used if a detailer recommends it. Not every patch of carpeting can withstand its strength.

Spill-Resistant Guarding And Bristled Scrubbing

Professionals frequently apply a layer of liquid-resistant spray or foam to combat against spills and rain water. This is delivered by aerosol roughly 6 inches away from each carpet piece you need to treat. If there are particularly stubborn stains that even shampooers can’t eradicate, a soft bristled brush can spot check and aide in the process.

Conclusion

Clean carpets are something that need to be taken care of weekly, monthly, or every few months (depending on your unique driving habits and requirements) if you utilize the skills of a professional auto detailer. With their technique and precision they have each vehicle looking and smelling as pristine as the day it was purchased.

Leather seats are a luxury if taken care of properly, however neglect and the sun’s rays can change their appearance and structure if not addressed imminently. Because leather is tightly manufactured onto frames and has a surface not as accepting to cleaners as fabric, getting them restored efficiently can be a grind. Auto detailers are equipped with the tools and tricks of the trade to have them sparkle, and there are a few steps they go through to guarantee this result.

“A clean slate is essential to restore its original positive properties… It should be noted that no matter which step of application you are on, to always address the grooves and cracks with detail”

Vacuum (Within Reason)

Chances are if you need to fix the leather on your seats they have incurred some damage along the way, even if it is simply age of the material. You should always vacuum the leather first just in case particles are embedded. The reason this step is important is because in applying cleaners you are going to want the cleanest surface possible. That being said, vacuuming should only be done within reason. What this means is that a low powered device is ideal, as leather doesn’t ‘take’ as well as fibers. If you are worried that vacuuming will cause your leather too much damage, then replace this step with a thorough wipe down using a microfiber cloth.

Use Leather Prep On A Pad

Automotive outlets offer ‘prepping solution’, which works by placing chemicals on the leather that get rid of leftover ‘films’ and sealants. You will know the cleaner is working if the leather starts to appear shiny and some of its color has returned. A clean slate is essential to restore its original positive properties. It should be noted that no matter which step of application you are on, to always address the grooves and cracks with detail.

Incorporate Alcohol Cleaner And Leather Binder

With a cotton towel, alcohol cleaner should be applied just as the leather prep solution was. Alcohol based detergents break down the impurities of the leather making it more susceptible to bond with the chemicals that will be used to bring it back to new. Leather binder is then used in numerous layers to have the surface strengthened. At least three coats of binder should be delivered.

Apply Leather Colorant Or Conditioner

Leather colorant, sometimes referred to as conditioner, is the final step to making the aesthetic of seats appear perfect. It is placed on the material using a sponge that is light and easy to fit into stitching when necessary. This conditioner often times has reflective properties, so it is easy to tell if the entire seat has been fixed in most cases. The colorants not only bring back the new car smell, they also enrich the bond of the leather and make it stand out like new.

Conclusion

Car leather seat restoration is a task that is only accomplished at the highest level through the use of professional auto detailers. Admirable as it may be to attempt it on your own, sometimes extensive techniques like airbrushing and stitching replacement is required. Leather interiors are stubborn about what cleaners and chemicals they react to, so it is prudent to always consult with a professional before potentially ruining the material.

Many owners do not realize that UV protection on their vehicle is typically limited to just the windshield. The windows themselves fall under the discretion of the manufacturer, with some choosing to use different types of glass panes to make them. The look of a window can come at the expense of proper protection against the sun’s rays. Even though it is one of the least thought about aspects of cars, the glass is just as important as any other component on the body. Believe it or not, a simple internet search will provide you with just how dangerous non-UV shielded windows can be, even contributing to skin cancer in some cases. So how can you UV protect them?

“Some people do not bother with window tints because they feel they are generic covers that add no aesthetic to the vehicle… in actuality, there are up to 50 films that can be placed, with an emphasis on style as well as efficiency”

Tinting Is Your Solution

Many wonder why tinting of windows is necessary if windshields are so effective at combating the sun. What is in front of you on the road and what is beside you are two completely different things. The reason why what windows are made of vary so much is because there are rules and regulations in place for the amount of light that can enter a windshield. This is not the case with windows, which give manufacturers more free reign to design to their desire, regardless of how safe it is against the elements. Those who are constantly driving are susceptible to burning and their likelihood of cancer increases.

Variety For Your Personality

Some people do not bother with window tints because they feel they are generic covers that add no aesthetic to the vehicle. In actuality, there are up to 50 films that can be placed, with an emphasis on style as well as efficiency. Having all of your windows tinted is ideal to ensure that light refraction is minimal.

UV Windows Are Not Foolproof

Though it is highly recommended that you act upon the responsibility of reasonable protection for your windows, it must be mentioned that it is not absolute in its positive effects. Most windshields are able to block as high as 99% of UV rays. Windows that have been prepped with tint typically shield roughly 65% of them at worst. While not foolproof, it is hugely advantageous and a dramatic positive change from bare windows that have not been addressed.

Utilize Proper Glass Cleaners

To be clear, a spray is limited in what it can provide your car, however some automotive window cleaners can at least apply a UV resistant layer on the outside of your windows. If you purchase any detergent, upon checking the label you can frequently find if it has any ultraviolet application.

Conclusion

If there is ever a task to let an auto detailer handle, it is window tinting. Though some ‘do-it-yourself’ kits exist, states are very strict on how much tint a car window can have. The guidelines must be followed in order to avoid getting a ticket. The use of a professional auto detailer will guarantee that not only is the tint accurately applied, but that it does it’s job perfectly and also follows the law.

One of the most cumbersome places on a car to clean, the roof of your vehicle is frequently disregarded due to the awkward angles it takes to address. That said, the ceiling can get equally as dirty as the seats below, and as such, needs to be rectified through various methods. How you clean the roof will be dependent upon what it is made out of, be it leather, fabric, or vinyl, among others. Before carrying out the task, always double check the directions on the bottle you plan on using so you do not end up ruining the interior of your ride.

“For stubborn stains that a simple towel will not penetrate, the use of a bristled brush is worthwhile… it is vital that you have one with soft bristles, as hard will cause the stain to spread and can even deteriorate the material the ceiling is made of”

Always Use A Towel First

No two stains are the same, and because of this it is recommended that the first run through should always be with just a microfiber towel. The cloth on these types of rags is very forgiving and gentle, which is exactly what you need if you are unsure how problematic your stain is. Rub the towel gently in tiny circles so you do not spread the problem if it is a bigger issue than previously thought. If you are unable to remove the spot, spray upholstery cleaner into the towel and dab it liberally so it is wet, but not soaked. After you have built up a small amount of foam, use a dry section of the microfiber cloth and blot the area until it is dry.

Soft Bristled Brushes Are Helpful

For stubborn stains that a simple towel will not penetrate, the use of a bristled brush is worthwhile. It is vital that you have one with soft bristles, as hard will cause the stain to spread and can even deteriorate the material the ceiling is made of. Use an upholstery cleaner on the spot itself and let it rest the recommended amount of time. Foam based cleaners are the best with brushes because the bristles can loosen dirt and foreign particles more efficiently. After it has set, use the brush back and forth to break up the debris. Upon letting the region dry for an hour or two, you may need to repeat this step if progress is slow.

Deep Clean Machine For Tough Stains

If you are dealing with a difficult roof that needs extensive washing, you are likely in line for a deep clean machine. A deep clean machine is essentially a shampooer, but for cars. Fill the machine with hot water and the cleaning solution. Warm water is better than cold because it loosens embedded substances. Since you do not want the roof looking uneven, start at the corners and move in rows at a fairly brisk speed. You do not want to use the machine too slowly or else the ceiling will get too wet. After you have completed the shampoo ‘vacuuming,’ let the interior dry for a few hours in a cool climate with the windows down.

Conclusion

Washing and detailing the car interior roof is something that can be done with precision and powerful agents through the expertise of professional auto detailers. These technicians are trained to flawlessly eliminate any unwanted stains on your ceiling, as well as service the entire vehicle.

Outside of the body, car carpets are usually the dirtiest region of the vehicle. Dirt, trash, spilled coffee; there is no end to the amount of havoc they face. Because of this, shampooing them is a fruitful endeavor, albeit one that should be handled in a meticulous fashion. First and foremost, realize that only automotive grade shampoos can be used, as even dish soap is frowned upon. If you use a detergent that is not for carpeting, it will leave a greasy film on the fibers, making them slick and oily. So how do you shampoo car carpets successfully?

“While the shampooing will get rid of most of the dust, using a stain guard is beneficial… these sprays are useful because they repel liquid, making carpet more resistant to soda and coffee spills”

Remove Any Pieces You Can

This step will depend entirely on the make and model of your vehicle, and what components it has that are removable. If possible, take out any carpeting you are going to wash. Not only will this take pressure off of your back from bending down awkwardly in the car, it will also stop chemical residue from spreading to other regions of the vehicle. If you cannot lift the pieces of carpet, using plastic strips in surrounding areas is a good idea if you do not want to risk getting anything else wet.

Vacuum As If It Is Going In The Showroom

Before you even embark on shampooing, vacuuming your carpets extensively is essential. Even if it appears there is nothing on the surface, embedded dust will render the chemicals you add in later meaningless if you do not eradicate them.

Use Spot Cleaner

Spot cleaner is not the same thing as carpet shampoo, so applying them in the right order is essential. These detergents are aerosol based in most cases, and should be sprayed directly on stains. After problematic spaces are covered, blot with a microfiber towel. If the stains are deep, repeat this process at least one more time after you have let it dry for an hour.

Deep Clean Machines To The Rescue

If your carpeting is wrinkled, lay it as flat as possible before placing the deep clean machine apparatus on top of it. The carpet cleaner should be filled with liquid and chemical solution recommended by the manufacturer. Use the device by moving corner to corner as if you are vacuuming with your hand. Go over each region numerous times, but at a fairly quick pace to avoid over-damping. Once your carpets look (and smell) amazing, and the fibers are free of foam, grab a stain guard.

Provide Preventative Care

While the shampooing will get rid of most of the dust, using a stain guard is beneficial. These sprays are useful because they repel liquid, making carpet more resistant to soda and coffee spills. Even though these layers are not foolproof, they will buy you some time before you need to shampoo the carpets again.

Conclusion

Shampooing car carpets is something that professional auto detailers approach with a great deal of respect, technique, and effectiveness. Their skills are exemplified by delivering clean carpets and mats that appear brand new. If your vehicle’s interior is shampooed regularly, thousands of dollars of value can be added to its sticker price.

Car washes are a necessary exercise to rid your vehicle of dust and dirt in addition to maintaining the upkeep of the paint job. Because most of us do not have the time or desire to go through a ‘sub-par’ machine wash, tackling the project on our becomes a frequent necessity. Car shampoos are obviously the most important component when rinsing, but it is recommended to follow a checklist to make sure you are getting the most out of your product.

“Car shampoos have different ingredients than alternative soaps and detergents, they are designed to lubricate and finish without residue or grease… using a shampoo that is not made for a car’s body will cause streaking and spotting from the sun after it has been applied”

2 Buckets, A Sponge Applicator, And A Microfiber Towel

To get the best shine from your car shampoo, you will ideally need 2 buckets so you have one for soapy water and one for clean water. A sponge or applicator pad will help you rub in the suds, and a microfiber cloth will top off your job with an even sparkle.

Never Use Anything But A Vehicle Grade Shampoo

Car shampoos have different ingredients than alternative soaps and detergents. They are designed to lubricate and finish without residue or grease. Using a shampoo that is not made for a car’s body will cause streaking and spotting from the sun after it has been applied.

Fill The Bucket Liberally

Car owner’s make the common mistake of having half their bucket full of shampoo. This is unwise because you will end up spending twice as long to rinse your automobile so that it washes off. Less is more, with only a few ounces necessary for even the most stubborn jobs. After you have poured in the shampoo, add water so it foams up nicely.

Start From The Top And Work Your Way Down To The Wheels

When your sponge has absorbed an ample amount of shampoo, start rubbing your applicator in circular motions with a steady speed. If you have a decent enough cleaner, grime will begin to disappear immediately. Apply the shampoo in sections on your car, and each time you have covered an area thoroughly, rinse it out in a second bucket that is full of just clean water. This will remove the contaminants so you do not place them right back on the car when you resume scrubbing. After the exterior looks foamy, spray with precision until all the suds have disappeared. A microfiber towel will polish off the wash with a soft, consistent stroke that will leave your car streak-less.

Using The Shampoo To Maximize Effect

If you are able to get your hands on a shampoo and wax mix, you can flush the pores on your vehicle’s paint job. This wax does not have the same effect as car wax on its own, as it is not a sealant. It does, however, help the shampoo’s chemicals eradicate dirt for a better reflection.

Conclusion

Shampooing seems like a ‘turn your brain off’ type of task, but it is something that can be done poorly even if you are paying attention. For example, not rinsing your applicator in between swipes can actually damage the bodywork because you could be scraping the finish with dirt embedded into the sponge. Having a professional auto detailer visit you and handle your wash with the perfect shampoo is a great value, effective and a quick fix to a dusty ride.

Washing a convertible is just as vital as cleaning a standard vehicle, in some ways even more so to properly maintain the seal when it is closed and prevent rips and tears. The most important thing to do for this process happens even before you put a microfiber cloth in your hand. Do not even attempt to give your convertible a rinsing if you do not have an appropriate car shampoo that can handle vinyl and various other top materials.

“What car owners need to keep in mind when using top cleaner is that it cannot be rubbed in by section, as you normally would wash a car… instead, long sweeping streaks with liberal pressure is necessary to keep the chemicals evenly distributed”

Ideal Conditions And Tools For The Job

To start, never wash your convertible directly under the sun, and any shaded area is preferable. Moreover, cooler days to go through this process are recommended so the soap does not dry too quickly and embed into the roof. Along with the shampoo you are planning to use, ideally it is wise to have three microfiber towels to use. Obviously not everyone will have this luxury, but numerous towels will help you get the job done to perfection for different phases of the rinsing.

Do Not Overly Shampoo The Top

When mixing warm water and car shampoo in a bucket, make sure there is more liquid than detergent that is added. The reason for this is that the last thing you want is chemical residue leftover on the top because it will dry the material and cause browning by the sun. Additionally, do not use cleaners that incorporate bleach. After you have soaked your microfiber towel or vinyl applicator pad, scrub in circular motions starting small and gradually spreading wider until the entire surface is covered in suds. If you have deep rooted dirt, a brush can be used to scrub as long as it uses soft bristles. Using a separate towel wet only from water, use the same technique until any dust is clear and the top is regaining its shine. After it has dried for 10-20 minutes, it is time to incorporate vinyl cleaner.

Apply Convertible Top Cleaner

Once the top has gone through a nice bath, it is a good idea to use another microfiber towel and spray convertible top cleaner on it. Keep in mind that these detergents are usually okay to use on materials beyond just vinyl. Their application is worthwhile because they are more adept at deeply cleaning the top as opposed to just clearing the surface. What car owners need to keep in mind when using top cleaner is that it cannot be rubbed in by section, as you normally would wash a car. Instead, long sweeping streaks with liberal pressure is necessary to keep the chemicals evenly distributed. It is not a good idea to clean the top by section (as opposed to the body of the vehicle) because it increases the risk of areas fading at different times, which will ruin its appearance.

Vinyl Protectant, Anti-Mildew, And Water Repellant

Once you are satisfied with how your top looks, you can bring various protective properties into the fold with numerous products. Vinyl protectant can help repel the sun’s rays and ensure color fading is at a minimum. Mildew resistant sprays will guarantee the vinyl or fabric will not deteriorate quickly, and water repellant will help rain roll off the top and not be absorbed to damage the covering. No matter which you choose to add to your car, always wait at least 20 minutes before applying a different layer. Finally, with your top sparkling clean and ready for the elements, the rest of the vehicle can be taken care of in small sections of circular motions of car shampoo, before being rinsed and finished off by a smooth sheepskin cloth.

Conclusion

Because there are so many moving parts to washing a convertible, it is a smart move to have it handled by a professional auto detailer. Not only do they perform the task with effortless expertise, they also have access to a wide array of products to address your particular top. Moreover, using a professional is recommended because a convertible requires more tools to accomplish the desired results than a standard car wash.