How to Wash a New Car?
2 Answers
When washing a new car, if conditions permit, it is best to choose a dust-free hand wash car wash. Use a neutral and mild detergent, and separate towels should be used for washing and drying the car. Here are some related tips: 1. For the first wash, it is recommended to go to a dust-free hand wash car wash and use a neutral and mild detergent to thoroughly remove sand particles and dirt from the car's paint surface. Many contaminants on the car are not easily visible, especially chemical substances such as old paint, tree sap, alkalis, and acids. Therefore, a simple rinse is not enough; professional clay bars should be used to meticulously clean the surface. After completing the cleaning process, it is advisable to apply a glaze sealant to the car's paint to eliminate the need for waxing for a certain period. Finally, apply appropriate protectants to areas such as tires, bumpers, and wheel arches to prevent aging. 2. Avoid washing the car under strong sunlight or in extremely low temperatures. Always use professional car cleaning solutions to ensure the paint remains undamaged. Do not directly rinse the engine compartment with water, as thermal expansion and contraction can cause deformation or even cracking of the engine cylinder head and block. Even when washing a cold engine, water can easily enter the intake, leading to bent connecting rods, aging of electrical connectors, wiring, and circuit interfaces, corrosion, scale buildup, damage to the high-voltage ignition system, short circuits, and starting difficulties.
When I first bought my new car, I was particularly careful about the washing method because the new paint is prone to scratches. I avoided using the brushes in automatic car washes, as they could damage the paint. For hand washing, I used the two-bucket method: one bucket with dedicated car wash soap water and another with clean water to rinse the sponge. After wiping a small area each time, I would rinse the sponge thoroughly in the clean water bucket before dipping it back into the soap bucket to prevent sand particles from scratching the paint. For tools, I used microfiber cloths or soft sponges, avoiding hard brushes. I also made sure not to wash the car under direct sunlight to prevent soap water from drying too quickly and leaving water spots. After washing, I promptly dried the car with a soft towel to minimize water residue. I applied wax every two to three months to maintain the paint's shine. For regular maintenance, a weekly hand wash kept the car looking brand new and prevented dust buildup from damaging the paint. This method is simple and effective, preserving the car's exterior value.
