Step 1 - Wheel cleaning

Begin with the wheels, as they're often the dirtiest part of the car.

  • Rinse: Use a hose or pressure washer to remove loose dirt
  • Apply Cleaner: Spray a dedicated wheel cleaner onto the wheels and allow it to dwell for a few minutes
  • Agitate: Use a wheel brush to scrub the wheel surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas
  • Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse off the cleaner and loosened grime

Step 2 - Pre-Wash

Begin with the wheels, as they're often the dirtiest part of the car.

  • Apply Pre-Wash Solution: Spray a citrus-based pre-wash cleaner onto the lower parts of the car, such as bumpers and sills
  • Dwell Time: Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, but do not let it dry
  • Rinse: Use a hose or pressure washer to rinse off the pre-wash solution

Step 3 - Two-Bucket Wash

This method minimises the risk of introducing scratches during washing.

  • Set Up: Fill one bucket with car shampoo solution and another with clean water
  • Wash: Dip a wash mitt into the shampoo, wash a section of the car, then rinse the mitt in the clean water before reloading with shampoo
  • Work Methodically: Start from the top of the car and work downwards
  • Rinse: After washing, rinse the entire car thoroughly

Step 4 - Decontamination

Remove bonded contaminants that washing alone can't eliminate.

  • Iron Fallout Remover: Spray onto the car's surface, allow it to react (it may turn purple), then rinse off
  • Tar Remover: Apply to areas with tar spots, let it dwell, then wipe off with a microfibre cloth
  • Clay Bar: Lubricate the surface with a clay lubricant or quick detailer, then gently glide the clay bar over the paintwork to remove remaining contaminants

Step 5 - Drying

Proper drying prevents water spots and prepares the surface for polishing.

  • Use a Drying Towel: Employ a soft, absorbent microfibre drying towel
  • Pat Dry: Gently pat the surface dry, starting from the top and working downwards
  • Avoid Dragging: Do not drag the towel across the paint to prevent scratches

Step 6 - Polishing

Polishing enhances the paint's gloss and removes minor imperfections.

  • Choose a Polish: Select a suitable car polish for your vehicle's paint condition
  • Application: Apply the polish using an applicator pad or machine polisher, working in small sections
  • Buff Off: Once the polish has hazed, buff it off with a clean microfibre cloth

Step 7 - Protection

Protect the polished surface to maintain its appearance.

  • Select a Product: Choose between wax, sealant, or ceramic coating based on desired durability and finish
  • Apply: Follow the product instructions for application and curing times
  • Buff: After curing, buff the surface to a high gloss with a clean microfibre cloth

Step 9 - Interior Cleaning

A clean interior enhances the overall detailing effect.

  • Vacuum: Thoroughly vacuum seats, carpets, and mats
  • Clean Surfaces: Use appropriate interior cleaners for dashboards, door panels, and other surfaces
  • Glass Cleaning: Clean interior windows with a dedicated glass cleaner and microfibre cloth
  • Conditioning: Apply leather conditioner to leather seats and surfaces, if applicable