What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, we've all been there. You get back from a camping trip and honestly, you just want to crack a cold one and leave the car for tomorrow. But trust me, that red dust and mud becomes like concrete once it bakes in our March sun. I learned this the hard way with a black Commodore I used to own, left the mud on for three days and it actually stained the clear coat. This checklist is your no-nonsense guide to getting it clean before the damage is done.
The Right Gear for the Job
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
The Cleaning Process
The Heavy Knock-down
Use the pressure washer to blast the heavy chunks off. Start from the bottom and work up, then flush the chassis rails until the water runs clear.
Snow Foam Soak
Cover the whole car in foam. Let it dwell for 5 minutes but don't let it dry. This helps lift that stubborn red dust without you touching the paint.
Wheel and Arch Scrub
While the foam is dwelling, hit the tyres and arches with your brushes. A customer once brought in a Ranger with 'permanent' brown tyres, they just needed a proper scrub.
The Contact Wash
Use the two-bucket method. Use a high-quality mitt and light pressure. If the mitt gets dirty, rinse it in the 'rinse' bucket before taking more soap.
Final Rinse and Flush
Rinse from the roof down. Pay extra attention to the wiper cowl and window seals where that fine red dust loves to hide and grit up.
Dry and Protect
Dry it off quickly to avoid water spotting. I'd chuck a quick spray sealant on afterwards to make the mud easier to wash off next time.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
Watch Out
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