Car Cleaning Questions

We’re sure you’ve heard all sort of stories about what to do and what not to do when it comes to cleaning your car. We have compiled a list of some of the best car cleaning questions that Myrtle Beach Detailing has come across. Keep reading to find out more.

 

 

Is dish-washing detergent is safe?

Please, for your vehicle’s sake, don’t use regular dish-washing detergent to wash your vehicle. That type of soap is designed to remove everything from a surface. This means not only does it remove dirt, it will also remove all the polymers of the paint’s surface. You don’t want that squeaky clean! Just like it dries out your hands, it will dry out your car’s surface and increase the chance for oxidation.

 

Is washing and cleaning the same?

Washing removes loose contaminants like dirt and grime. Cleaning removes stains and contaminants that get bonded to the surface of your vehicle like tree sap. A good cleaning goes well beyond a general washing.

 

 

If a car looks shiny, can the cleaning process be skipped?

When you wash your car, of course it’s going to look shiny. That doesn’t mean it’s actually clean though. Rub your hand across your vehicle’s surface. You may need to FEEL the surface to see if there are contaminants. It should feel like glass, not sandpaper.

 

Should clay bars only be used by professionals?

Clay bars are sort of like Silly Putty and it actually really easy to use. It’s a good tool when trying to remove tree sap and road rubber.

 

 

Does waxing remove swirl marks?

Swirl marks are scratches in the paint’s surface. The only way to get rid of them is to get to the bottom of them. Sometimes, a non-abrasive paint cleaner can work. Other times, a professional color sanding and buffing may be required.

 

 

Is there a difference between polishing and waxing?

Polishing creates a high gloss surface. Waxing protects the vehicle’s finish by coating it with waxes, polymers, resins and silicone but doesn’t make the surface shiny.

 

 

Do machine polishers damage the paint finish?

Dual action polishers or orbital buffers shouldn’t be a problem. Rotary buffers however, operate at a much higher speed and should be left to the professionals. (Like us!)

 

 

If you have any car cleaning questions or have decided to let us take care of your vehicle, give Myrtle Beach Detailing a call today!