Taking Care of Your New Car: The First Wash and Beyond

Never wash your car in direct sunlight, especially in Feb. If the panels are hot to the touch, the water and soap will dry instantly, leaving spots that are a nightmare to get off. I usually wait until after 5pm or do it early in the morning before the sun gets some teeth.

Run your hand over the bonnet. If it feels like sandpaper, you've got industrial fallout or rail dust. For a first wash, we'll try to chemically remove this rather than using a clay bar, which can be a bit aggressive for a beginner.

Always do your wheels first. They are the filthiest part. If you do them last, you'll spray brake dust and grime back onto your clean car. I learned this the hard way on a black Commodore, never again.

Spray your wheel cleaner on cool wheels. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes (don't let it dry!). Use your brush to get into the nuts and the barrel. Rinse thoroughly.

Blast the whole car with water. Start from the top and work down. You're trying to move the big stuff, the grit, the dust, and those lovely Aussie bugs, without touching the paint.

If you've got a foam gun, chuck some soap in and cover the car. Let it dwell for 5 minutes. This breaks down the transport oils and grease. If you don't have foam, just give it a very thorough rinse.

Dunk your mitt in the soapy bucket, wash a panel (start at the roof), then rinse the mitt in the plain water bucket. This keeps your soapy water clean. Use light pressure, you aren't scrubbing a burnt pot here!

While the car is soapy, use your soft brush to gently go around the badges, fuel cap, and door seals. You'd be surprised how much red dust hides in there even on a new car.

Rinse the whole car. I like to take the nozzle off the hose for a final 'sheeting' rinse. The water will just roll off, making drying much easier.

Lay your big drying towel flat on the bonnet and pull it towards you. Don't rub. Just let the towel soak up the water. This prevents those tiny swirl marks that drive us detailers mad.

Don't forget to dry the inside of the doors and the boot lid. Water sits there and causes marks, and your partner will thank you when they don't get dripped on next time they open the door.

This is the most important part for a new car. Apply your sealant or spray ceramic. My go-to for a quick job is Autoglym UHD Wax or a ceramic spray like Bowden's Bead Machine. It'll give you months of protection against the sun.

Clean the windows with a dedicated glass cleaner (no ammonia if you have tint!) and put some tyre shine on. It's the 'suit and tie' for your car. Makes it look finished.