How to Polish a Car Properly

Properly polishing your car is a lot of work, but it is one of the most important things you can do to protect the finish and keep it looking like new for years to come. Without proper care, the paint can quickly corrode and lead to rust.

You Will Need to Gather the Following Items:

• Bucket


• Sponge


• Water


• Soap specifically made for automobiles


• Car wax


• Terry cloth towels

1. Thoroughly wash and rinse the car working from the top down. Be sure to use only soaps made for automobiles. Dishwashing soaps can be too harsh and damage the finish. Remove all dirt and debris. Make sure that you are not working in direct sunlight, as this will cause the car to dry too quickly and leave streaks.

2. Carefully read the instructions on the type of wax that you have purchased. Some have certain requirements that you must follow. Also, it is possible that some waxes will stain the plastic parts of the car body.

3. Apply a small amount of polish to a damp terry cloth towel. Again, follow the directions specific to the wax you are using.

4. Work in small sections, rubbing the wax onto the car in a circular motion.

5. Allow the wax to dry until it forms a haze.

6. Buff the wax off with a dry terry cloth towel. Be careful not to let the wax dry too long or it will be more difficult to remove.

7. Continue the process on the rest of the car remembering to apply the wax only to small sections at a time.