Washing your car might seem straightforward, but many of us unknowingly commit errors that can damage our vehicles or leave them less clean than expected. These common mistakes can turn a simple wash into a costly repair. Read on to discover the 13 most frequent car wash blunders and learn how to avoid them to keep your car shining.

Using Dish Soap Instead of Car Soap

Dish soap is tough on grime but harsher on your car’s paint. It’s designed to cut through grease, which strips away protective wax layers, leaving your vehicle vulnerable to scratches and fading. Always opt for a soap specifically formulated for cars.

Washing Under Direct Sunlight

The sun’s heat causes soap and water to dry too quickly, leading to unsightly water spots and streaks. Aim to wash your car early or late afternoon, or find a shaded area to prevent rapid drying and achieve a spotless finish.

Skipping the Pre-Rinse

A thorough pre-rinse removes loose dirt and debris that can scratch your car’s surface during washing. Before applying soap, thoroughly rinse the entire vehicle with a hose to remove particles.

Using One Bucket for Everything

Using just one bucket for washing increases the risk of transferring dirt onto the car. Employ the two-bucket method: one for soapy water and one for rinsing your wash mitt, ensuring you’re not reapplying grime.

Neglecting to Clean the Wheels First

Wheels accumulate the most dirt and brake dust, which can be transferred to the rest of the car if not cleaned first. Start with a dedicated wheel cleaner and brush to avoid contaminating your wash mitt and water.

Using a Sponge Instead of a Wash Mitt

Sponges can trap dirt and grit, scratching your car’s surface. A microfiber wash mitt is gentler and more effective at lifting dirt away from the paint without causing damage.

Scrubbing Too Hard

Vigorous scrubbing might seem like a good idea, but it can damage your car’s finish. Let the soap and water work; gently glide the wash mitt over the surface to lift dirt without scratching.

Not Drying Properly

Allowing your car to air dry can result in water spots and streaks. Use a clean, soft microfiber towel to gently pat the surface dry, ensuring a spotless shine and preventing any leftover residue.

Ignoring the Undercarriage

The undercarriage is often overlooked, yet it’s prone to rust from road salt and grime. Use a hose or undercarriage cleaner attachment to rinse away dirt and salt buildup, prolonging the life of your vehicle’s underside.

Overlooking Small Details

Areas like door jambs, fuel doors, and the inside of your trunk often must be addressed. Use a microfiber cloth and detailing brush to clean these hidden spots; a thorough wash will prevent buildup.

Applying Wax on a Dirty Surface

Waxing without adequately cleaning your car traps dirt and contaminants under the wax, which can damage the paint. Ensure your vehicle is immaculate and dry before applying a fresh coat of wax.

Forgetting to Clean the Inside

While the exterior is necessary, the interior should also be addressed. To achieve comprehensive cleanliness, ensure the carpets are thoroughly vacuumed, use a gentle cleaner to wipe all surfaces, and clean the interior of the windows.

Scraping Off Bird Poop

Bird droppings are acidic and can harm your car’s paint if left unattended, but scraping them off can cause scratches. Soften the droppings with a soak of warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then gently wipe them away with a soft cloth to avoid damaging the surface.