What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, people reckon white cars are easy, but after 15 years in the trade, I've seen more 'yellowed' Hiluxes and stained Commodores than I can count. Between the 40-degree heat and the local bats having a go at your bonnet, you've gotta be smart about it. This is my personal checklist for keeping that white finish looking crisp and bright, even in the middle of a shocker of a summer.
The Essential White-Paint Kit
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Ritual
What You'll Need
The 'Bright White' Process
Deep Pressure Rinse
Blast off the loose red dust and coastal salt. Be thorough around the wheel arches and window seals where salt hides.
Iron Decontamination
Spray the iron remover on dry-ish paint. On white cars, you'll see it 'bleed' purple. This is the only way to get those orange spots out.
The Two-Bucket Wash
Wash from top to bottom. I always do the roof first, then rinse. Don't let the soap dry in the sun (trust me on this one).
Clay Bar Treatment
Use plenty of lube. This pulls out the embedded grit that makes white paint feel like sandpaper. A customer once thought her car needed a respray, it just needed a good claying.
Chemical Spot Clean
Target any remaining tar or bug guts with your dedicated remover. White paint shows every speck, so don't be lazy here.
Seal and Protect
Chuck on your ceramic sealant. This provides the UV protection needed for the harsh Feb sun and makes the next wash ten times easier.
The 'She's Right' Inspection
What You'll Need
Watch Out
Pro Tip
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