As a race car driver, I know the importance of keeping a car in peak condition both inside and out. Whether it’s for performance, longevity, or aesthetics, proper detailing is key to ensuring your car looks and performs at its best. That’s why I started Valentine Performance Detailing, creating products that meet the standards I demand from my own cars. Here are my top 10 auto detailing tips to keep your car looking showroom-ready:
1. Wash Your Car in the Shade
I’ve seen a lot of people make the mistake of washing their car under direct sunlight, but it can cause soap and water to dry quickly, leading to unsightly water spots. This makes the detailing process more difficult and less effective. Instead, wash your car in a shaded area where the water can stay on the surface longer, allowing for a thorough clean.
Pro Tip: When the sun’s unavoidable, I grab our Quick Detailer / Waterless Wash. It adds an extra layer of shine while preventing those annoying water spots.
2. Use the Two-Bucket Method
One of the simplest yet most effective techniques I’ve used for avoiding scratches during a wash is the two-bucket method. One bucket should be filled with clean water and the other with soapy water. After each pass with your wash mitt, rinse it in the clean water bucket before dipping it back into the soapy water. This reduces the risk of transferring dirt and debris back onto the car.
Pro Tip: I use our Auto Care Double-Faced Mitt because it works perfectly for this method, giving you an efficient and scratch-free wash.
3. Pre-Rinse Your Car Thoroughly
Every time I prepare to detail my car, I make sure to spray down the entire vehicle first, especially the lower areas where grime builds up. This reduces the risk of scratching your paint when you begin washing with a mitt. Pay extra attention to wheel wells and the underside of the car, where grease tends to accumulate.
Pro Tip: For that stubborn grime, I use our Heavy-Duty Degreaser. It’s perfect for breaking down tough contaminants before the main wash.
4. Invest in Quality Microfiber Towels
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that using the wrong towel can undo all your hard work. Old cotton towels can scratch your paint plus leave lint everywhere you wipe. For drying, polishing, and buffing, always use high-quality microfiber towels. These are softer and less likely to cause damage to your car’s delicate surfaces.
Pro Tip: I always keep a few of our Microfiber Coral Fleece Towels in my garage. They are designed to safely and efficiently remove moisture and polish residue without leaving lint behind.
5. Clay Bar for Decontamination
When I want to get my car’s surface ultra-smooth, I turn to a clay bar. After washing your car, use a clay bar to remove any remaining embedded contaminants that soap and water can’t get. This step is crucial before applying wax or ceramic coatings, as it ensures a clean surface for these products to bond to.
Pro Tip: After claying, I always apply our Graphene Ceramic Shield. It will give your vehicle ultimate protection once you’ve decontaminated the surface with a clay bar.
6. Tires Matter: Don’t Overlook Them
In racing, your tires are everything. But it’s not just about performance; it’s also about appearance. Your tires can either elevate or detract from your car's overall appearance. Make sure to clean and dress your tires as part of your detailing routine. This helps protect them from cracking and UV damage while keeping them looking fresh.
Pro Tip: Our Tire & Trim Kit ensures my tires are protected and looking sharp. Not only does it clean but also revives faded trim, giving it a deep, rich finish.
7. Don’t Forget the Interior
Detailing isn’t just about the exterior. The interior of your car needs just as much attention. Regularly vacuum the carpets, clean the dashboard, and wipe down seats. Pay close attention to high-touch areas like steering wheels and door handles, which can accumulate oils and dirt.
Pro Tip: I keep things simple with our Interior & Exterior Cleaner. It’s an all-in-one solution that keeps the inside of your car looking spotless.
8. Apply Ceramic Coating for Long-Term Protection
If you want to take your detailing to the next level, applying a ceramic coating is the way to go. It forms a protective layer over your paint that resists dirt, water, and UV rays while providing a brilliant shine. Ceramic coatings offer longer-lasting protection compared to the traditional waxes I used to use.
Pro Tip: Our Graphene Ceramic Kit is a product I trust on all my cars. It provides next-generation ceramic protection with graphene-infused formulas, known for their superior durability and hydrophobic properties.
9. Use Proper Polishing Techniques
Polishing can help remove minor scratches and swirl marks, restoring your car’s paint to its former glory. However, polishing should be done with care. It’s important to use the right pads and apply the right amount of pressure. When using a polishing pad or machine, make sure you’re using the right technique to avoid over-buffing your paint, which can cause damage.
Pro Tip: I use our Quick Detailer / Waterless Wash for a quick touch-up that maintains the shine in between major detailing and polishes.
10. Seal the Deal with a Wax or Sealant
Once you’ve polished your car, seal in that glossy finish with a high-quality wax or paint sealant. These products provide an additional layer of protection and give your car that beautiful, mirror-like finish. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping this step can leave my car vulnerable to the elements. Regular waxing also makes it easier to wash your car by preventing dirt from sticking to the surface.
Pro Tip: For a quick and effective solution, I love our Wash & Wax formula. It’s a quick application that combines cleaning and waxing in one easy step.
Attention to Detail Makes All the Difference
For me, car care has always been about more than just looking good—it’s about preserving the investment, the resale value, the performance, and the pride that comes with driving a well-maintained vehicle. By following these detailing tips and using high-quality products like those from Valentine Performance Detailing, you can keep your car in tip-top shape for years to come. Remember, the key to proper auto detailing is a consistent routine and the right tools. Always keep your garage stocked with VPD Kits and Accessories and you’ll never go wrong.
