Now that the weather has started to cool and the leaves are falling, it’s time for Aussie drivers to turn their attention to vehicle preparation for the coming seasons. A little extra Autumn car care can go a long way, but it’s surprising just how many of us make a few critical car detailing mistakes that can ruin all your hard work.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a DIY detailing enthusiast or you just like to keep your car looking fresh in between detailing services; familiarising yourself with these common cleaning errors can help you to maintain that glossy sheen just a bit longer.
Here are the top five detailing mistakes that you must avoid this Autumn and how we here at Australia’s Detailing Group can help you to stay ahead of the game!
Using the Wrong Products for the Job
One of the biggest and most common car detailing mistakes we encounter is people using household cleaners or cheaper alternatives to detail their vehicle at home.
It can be so tempting to grab a bargain or reach for the bleach, but in reality, these products are far too harsh for the delicate finish on your vehicle. Automotive finishes are fairly sensitive to harsh chemicals, so using these cheap products can strip wax, dull your paint, or worse still, damage rubber seals and plastic trims.
Autumn Tip:
Chilly temperatures mean your vehicle’s paintwork can become even more sensitive to harsh chemicals. It’s good practice to always use a ph-balanced shampoo and car care products that have been specifically formulated for automotive use.
If you’re ever unsure about a product and whether you can use it on your vehicle or not, reach out to your nearest Australia’s Detailing Group franchise for some expert advice!
Skipping Protective Steps
Nobody likes being out in the cold, but chilly forecasts don’t give you an excuse to do a rush job on your DIY detailing! Skipping vital steps like waxing or applying a sealant means your vehicle is without the extra protective layer that gives it such an impressive shine.
Of course, without this added layer of protection in Autumn, your car is also more susceptible to damage from falling leaves, bird droppings, and the early morning dew.
Autumn Tip:
Once you’ve washed and dried your vehicle, apply a thin layer of quality wax or invest in ceramic coating to protect your vehicle’s finish. Call Australia’s Detailing Group if you’d like a hand applying these premium coatings!
Over-Washing and Incorrect Washing
Many of our customers are shocked to learn that over-washing your vehicle can be just as damaging to your car as not washing it at all.
This is because washing your vehicle too frequently or even using poor washing techniques can cause micro-scratches, strip any protective coatings, and leave unsightly swirl marks that can really dull the overall appearance of your vehicle.
Autumn Tip:
Keep a cleaning schedule! This allows you to book a professional car detailing appointment and keep on top of maintenance polishes without over- or under-washing your vehicle. Find your local Australia’s Detailing Group franchise and get booked onto a regular detailing schedule today!
Neglecting Your Interiors
So much attention is paid to the exterior of your vehicle over Autumn that it can mean your interiors are getting forgotten about. The weather in Autumn is pretty terrible for your vehicle’s interior, with many of our customers getting mud, wet leaves, and all sorts of other nasties brought into their vehicles.
With the addition of all that moisture to the interior of your car, you get extra humidity, which can lead to mould, stains, and nasty odours that linger inside your car. It’s really good practice to clear out your vehicle as soon as you get home, especially if you know you’re bringing in a little bit of the outdoors with you!
Autumn Tip:
Don’t let your interior get out of control. If you notice any stains or smells, it’s always best to contact the professionals to take on a deep interior clean before things start to escalate.
Ignoring Wheels and Undercarriages
The saying ignorance is bliss definitely does not apply to vehicle care! So many car owners see shiny paintwork and forget all about the dirtiest parts of the vehicle, like the wheels, wheel arches, and undercarriages.
These areas have so many parts that accumulate extra grime, salt, and brake dust, which can easily lead to corrosion if not maintained correctly. Keep on top of these problem areas before they start to cause your issues, and you’ll have a much more pleasant Autumn!
Autumn Tip:
You can find specialist wheel and undercarriage cleaners that are fantastic at removing any buildup from these tricky areas. Of course, you can also call us at Australia’s Detailing Group and book in for us to tackle the problem too!
Skip the Mistakes and Protect Your Vehicle this Season
Give us a call at Australia’s Detailing Group and see why so many Australians choose us to take care of their vehicles all year round. Book online today and we’ll see you at a location to suit you!