Jack Williams

Summer Tips: Car Washing 101

Washing a car sounds simple enough, right? You think, a little soap, break out the hose, drive it around the block to dry and you're done. Unfortunately, washing your care is a little more complicated than that. Check out these guidelines from Consumer Reports for washing your vehicle.

Always rinse off dead bugs and tree sap immediately. The longer they stick around, the harder they are to get rid of. Some things to consider, is your area prone to acid rain? Be sure to rinse off your car after any rainfall. The acid can eat away at your paint.

Household cleaners like detergent and dish soap are not designed for your car. Some of these cleaners have chemicals that can easily strip your cars paint. Do use a car-wash soap and sponge to wash off your car. These detergents are mild and specifically designed to be gentle on your vehicle. Use a separate sponge to wash off your wheels and tires. Driving can accumulate debris that can mar the car's finish.

Be sure to not wash you car when it's been sitting in direct heat. The heat your car retains dries soap faster and will make washing more difficult. Do rinse your car thoroughly before washing to cool it down. Keep these tips in mind when giving your car a good washing this summer!