Chrome Rims

Chrome Rims

For the best results when doing your own auto detailing, you should work in a particular order.

You should start with the inside of the vehicle. Clean the fabric first. Then move on to any stains on the upholstery and carpet.

After that you should vacuum. This will allow you to clean up any debris left from the fabric cleaning.

Don't clean the dash, steering wheel, or other like surfaces until after you have vacuumed. This will get rid of any dust that would otherwise adhere to the oil-based products you will be using on those surfaces.

Moving on to the outside of the car, you should do the door jambs first then on to the exterior. Consider what kind of condition your car is in. Older cars and those with more oxidation will need a different treatment than a newer car with less oxidation.

A newer car usually just needs to be waxed with a carnuba wax, like Turtle Wax, Mothers or Maguires.

Vehicle models from 94-99 may need a 2 stage systerm. This is a cleaner wax that has a slight abrasive to remove oxidation and then it is followed up with a carnuba wax.

Even older vehicles may look their best when you use an older 3 stage system. First is a medium cut swirl remover, then a fine cut compound, and finally the carnuba wax. older vehicles sometimes have more oxidation and scratches that need to be filled in. 3M manufactures a 3 stage system.

After the paint, then on to the rims. Your method of cleaning with the rims will depend on what type and material your rims are.

Spoke rims are hard to clean because of the hard to reach spots. Use a wheel cleaner with an acid base to it that will disintegrate the dirt, making it easier to clean. A product like Ice Wheel and Tire Cleaner is ideal because it contains phosphoric acid and oxalic acid.

For chrome rims, use a metal polish like Mothers, Blue Magic or Never Dull.

Aluminum wheels need a metal polish with no acid base. The acid will damage the clear coat base of the wheels. Eagle One has products that repel brake dust for up to 2 weeks.

If you have hub caps, use a standard degreaser.

Any employee at the local auto parts store should be able to direct you to the products that will best fit your cars' needs.