4 Tips for Optimal Charging >>
Hopefully, you will avoid the need to charge your battery, but if you find yourself in a situation where the battery life is dying and it needs to be recharged, then here’s how you do it.
Obviously before you begin, you will need to acquire a battery charger. Not all chargers are the same so you should familiarize yourself with your particular model prior to using it. Inspect the instructions and make sure you understand how the charger works and what each button, dial or reading is used for.
Once you are familiar with the basics of your battery charger, you can now connect it to the vehicle’s battery. You can charge the battery while it is still inside the car or if it has been removed, either method is fine. First attach the positive (red) clamp to the positive post on the battery. The positive post will have a “+” indicator on it. Next attach the negative (black) clamp to the negative post on the battery. The negative post will have a “-“ indicator on it.
Next, you need to set the volt and amps on the charger. If you wish to slowly trickle charge the battery, you want it set to a lower amperage than if quickly trying to start your car. Trickle charging is the better method to use if you have time, as it will do a better job charging your battery. However, if you are quickly trying to start the car, you will want to use a higher amperage.
Plug in the charger and let it do its work. You may be able to set an amount of time for the charger to work, or it may shut off automatically when it is done. Either way it is a good idea not to move the charger or play with the cord during this process.
Once the battery is charged you can turn off the charger, then unplug it from the wall. Next you will disconnect the cables in the opposite order in which you attached them. Negative (black) clamp first, the positive (red). Your battery should be all charged and you should be ready to go.
Portable Car Battery Charger Buying Guide >>
]]>The smell of rotten eggs is due to a compound called hydrogen sulfide. This comes from the small amount of sulfur that is present in the fuel. Normally the sulfur is converted to sulfur dioxide, which has no odor. When the converter breaks or the filtering layers have worn down inside the converter, the sulfur is not transformed into the odorless form. Therefore a strong rotten egg smell is produced. Another possible cause for this smell may be that the converter is plugged. Unfortunately you cannot repair a converter but need to have it completely replaced. Two other causes of rotten eggs besides a broken catalytic converter include an engine that is running too hot or a broken fuel pressure regulator. You can easily deal with the fuel pressure regulator by replacing the fuel filter.
If you notice a very strong exhaust smell in the car then you probably have a leak in the exhaust system. There may be a hole in the exhaust pipe, tailpipe, or muffler. You also may have worn down a part of the car interior which is letting the exhaust in. Check the door seals and the rear doors. If carbon monoxide is leaking into your car this is serious as this chemical is highly toxic to humans.
There are several issues that may cause car smells from the heater core. If you notice your heater is producing an antifreeze burning smell then there is a good chance that antifreeze is leaking into the heating system. A leak can occur from a hose to the heater core or the heater can be cracked. You will normally be able to see antifreeze dripping onto the ground or running down the side of the heater core. Your heater core could also have broken seals. Most of the time a sweet smell, such as cinnamon, maple syrup or butterscotch is an indication that there is a leak in the heater core.
Sometimes you may find that the exhaust smells like gas. This is normally a problem with the air and fuel mixture as your fuel injector may be sending too much gas through the engine and not all is burning. This can easily be fixed by having your engine properly tuned. You also may not be using the correct brand of gasoline. Therefore the engine and exhaust are not working properly which results in gas like odors emerging. You may also find that the fuel injector is clogged and needs cleaning. Another cause of this gas smell is a stuck choke if you have a carburetor.
What Does Car Air Conditioner Gas Smell Like?
Car air conditioner gas smells a bit like ether. The gas used in modern day cars is R-134A. This replaced the odorless freon back in the 1990s. If there is a smell in your vehicle that is a bit medical in nature, it could be that the air conditioner is leaking. If the smell is more of a moldy smell, it's possible there is a bacteria issue in the system. Bacteria can be dangerous so it is best to have the system checked out by a professional. While more environmentally friendly than freon, R-134A still contributes greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.
What is Happening When There's a Burning Rubber Smell from a Car?
A burning rubber smell from a car can be caused by any number of things. A burning clutch often smells like burning rubber. It is also possible that oil is leaking onto the engine and burning off. Many times burning oil will give off a burning rubber smell. Finally, the most common cause of this problem is an engine belt. Various belts in the engine, when failing, heat up and give off a smell of burning rubber. Any of these problems can result in further damage to the engine if they are not fixed in a timely manner. If your car is giving off a burning rubber smell for more than a day or two, you should take it to a mechanic to have it checked out.
Is a Fuel Smell In a Car a Serious Problem?
A fuel smell in a car can be an indicator of a more serious problem. It is also possible that you somehow tracked gasoline into the car when filling it up. If the smell persists for more than a day or two it is a good idea to have a professional check the vehicle out. A couple of things that might cause a gas smell would be a leaking gas line, or leaking fuel injectors. If this is the case, it is important that the car be serviced by a professional. In some cars the fuel injectors may have over-injected the engine and the extra gas has leaked out. The smell should go away after the gas burns off.
Is it Bad if There is a Gas Smell in My Engine Oil?
Yes, if there is a gas smell in the oil of your car there could be a serious problem. If the fuel line is leaking or the injectors are leaking gas, it can get into the crankcase. If this happens your oil will smell like gas. Pulling out the dipstick and giving it a sniff should confirm gasoline in your oil. If this is the case, you should get the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible. They will need to drain and change the oil. In addition, they will need to find and fix the fuel leak. Gasoline in your oil can result in scored cylinder walls.
]]>You can recharge a car battery when your car refuses to start. On average, most batteries do not require a recharge for at least five years. That's if you're taking good care of your car. Frequent recharges indicate that your car battery is of poor quality or that you are not taking care of your car as well as you should. Some batteries have a charge indicator where you can find out the state of the battery. If the indicator is clear or yellow, you have to recharge it.
Here are a few simple guidelines on how to recharge your battery yourself.
Note: Since battery acid is hazardous, be sure to take adequate precautions when handling old battery terminals to protect skin and clothing.
Use a Trickle Charger
This device delivers electricity to your battery from a power outlet in a slow, steady stream. You don't need to charge your car fast. A slow charge is much better, as batteries tend hold the charge for a longer period of time with this method. The trickle charger has an electric cord with a plug and two jumper cables with alligator clips.
Clean the Battery Terminals
Check the terminals of the battery and clean them. Remember that you should not touch the terminals if they are covered with a whitish powder. This is dried sulfuric acid and it can burn your skin if you touch it with your bare hands. Use a manual sandpaper pad to wipe around the terminals, or get a wet cloth and apply a layer of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to the cloth. Take care not to allow the solution to make contact with skin and clothing. Rub the terminals down with your removal system, and ensure that they are ready to receive the wires.
Remove the Cell Caps
On many batteries, you will see a series of small caps. These are known as cell caps, and they have to be removed before you can use a battery charger. These caps are either on the very top of the battery, or under a yellow strip which can be peeled on and off, some may have no caps at all. If your battery does have cell caps, they must be removed before you begin charging, otherwise gases created by charging will not be able to escape into the atmosphere.
Attach the Charger Cables
Make sure that the car is turned off and then attach the cables or the wires to the battery terminals. The charger will have two wires. The red wire has to be connected to the red or positive terminal (it might be labeled the POS terminal on the battery). The other is connected to the negative terminal or the terminal marked as NEG. Make sure that the two wires don't touch each other. This is because the wires will spark when they touch, causing ignition of the hydrogen gas that surrounds the battery. You could suffer nasty burns or even cause an explosion.
Turn on the Charger
Once both the terminals are connected, connect the charger to the electric outlet. Turn on the current and the battery will charge itself. Leave the charger on overnight. In the morning, turn off the charger and then check the reading on it. If the reading is less than an ampere then you can unplug the charger.
Check the Battery
After recharging, check the battery to find out whether it works. Use a hydrometer to find out the amount of electric energy in the fluid or turn on the engine. If the battery still does not turn on, then you might have to get it replaced.
Can you Use a NICd Battery for Charging an Auto Battery?
Yes, there is no issue using a nickel iron, or NICd, for battery charging. Deep cycle, nickel iron, or marine batteries can all be used to charge an auto battery, should the need arise. The main factor is the cranking amps generated, and it may take these batteries longer to charge than using another car battery or a battery charger. However, there should be no problem using a NICd battery to start or charge a car as long as you can generate the cranking amperage to do so.
Can You Recharge a Car Battery that Ran Out of Water?
Recharging a car battery once it has run out of water is possible, but it may not continue to hold a charge. This is solely dependent on the amount of time your battery has been running dry. Some batteries, when refilled with distilled water, will continue to hold a charge, whereas others will not. The determining factors for this are the amount of time your battery has been dry, the quality of your battery and how old it is. Unfortunately, you can only determine the answer by charging it and watching to make sure it is holding a charge. You should definitely re-fill the battery with distilled water prior to charging it.
]]>Many times a burning smell will come from your clutch. This can occur when you are changing gears. This is a special type of burning, like burning newspaper. Basically the face of the clutch burns off as the clutch slips. It smells papery because the surface of the clutch actually is a type of paper composition. It is important that you learn how to use the clutch properly to stop doing this. Do not ride the clutch. If you do this too often then you may need to have the clutch replaced.
You can also develop a burnt smell from the brakes. This occurs if you are riding the brakes or braking very hard. If you are going down a very steep hill and riding the brakes, then this friction can become so great that your brakes smoke. This is not a problem if it occurs once in a while. However if you notice a burning smell from the brakes during regular driving then there is a problem. A caliper piston in the brakes may have seized which causes the brake to drag. If this is the case, you will need to have this fixed. Another common cause of burnt brakes is individuals leaving their hand brake or parking brake on when driving.
Burning can also occur when there is an electrical short circuit. The plastic around the wires, connection, or fuses will melt or burn producing this smell. If you do not get the electrical system fixed, then you can have serious problems running your car. It is best to have a mechanic fix it as they can hook your car up to a computer which will then quickly tell the operator where the electrical problem is.
You want to check the heater vent if you notice a burning smell. If it has been a long time since you used your heater then there may be dust in the system. However if you use it regularly and there is still a burning smell then you may have pine needles or other debris stuck in the vent. Many people find that a plastic bag stuck in the engine will create a burning smell. The heater itself could be broken causing a burning smell from the antifreeze that is leaking into the heater vents. You can also have parts of the heater core itself melt which causes a burning smell. This is normally in the heater motor. If the smell gets very bad from the heater and you do not have any debris in the engine then you probably need to have a mechanic check out the heater.
If you have an oil leak and then it drops onto the hot exhaust when driving, you will smell burning when you get out of the car. This phenomenon can be very noticeable when driving up large hills as your exhaust will get very hot. You may not notice the burning smell when in the car but it is very noticeable when you get out of the car. Additionally there may be some fumes due to the burning oil.
Would a Dirty Car Heater Core Lead to a Burning Smell?
It is possible for a dirty car heater core to lead to a burning smell if the car heater core were filled with debris such as leaves, pine needles and acorns. It will take some time to fill a car heater core to this point, but if there is no place for the heat to dissipate because it is blocked by leaves and other debris, then there is a very good chance one would find a burning smell from a dirty car heater core. Although it is highly unlikely to happen. More to the point, is the fact that you would likely find a car heater core with a leak that is soaking your front carpet with antifreeze.
]]>The Kirkland Signature is only available at Costco and is an excellent battery for the price. The amp ratings and performance match many of the super premium brand batteries, but at half the price. These batteries are excellent for cold weather and you can feel confident knowing your car will always start, even when the temperature is below freezing. You also get a full refund if the battery should fail, no matter what the cause.
EverStart batteries are available at Walmart and are made by a company that also produces some of the premium brand batteries. These have excellent performance and are very affordable. The amp ratings are perfect for extreme weather and below freezing temperatures. There is no maintenance involved and very easy to use.
AC Delco batteries are one of the best brands. These all pass vigorous quality tests, so you will never have a problem with a battery. The terminals are free of corrosion and the reservoir is quite large, so the charge holds for years. There is no maintenance and there is a limited warranty that will fully replace the battery should something go wrong. The 6 series offers a great punch for your buck, as they are high performance but very affordable.
The same company that makes DieHard and Sears car batteries produces Duralast car batteries. These can be found at AutoZone stores. This battery matches the performance found in the DieHard batteries, so you have 800+ cold cranking amps. This will start most cars in below freezing temperatures. It has a large reserve and is maintenance free. This budget battery offers excellent performance.
DieHard batteries are marketed from Sears and are considered a premium car battery. These are supposed to last forever, and while this may not be quite true, they last much longer than other batteries. They offer a range of car batteries including a heavy duty line, premium line and medium duty car batteries. DieHard also produces battery boosters, battery chargers, and batteries for other non-automotive vehicles.
The NAPA performance battery lineup is a decent battery. However, the short 24-month warranty leaves more to be desired, especially at the price. That being said, the battery can handle a wide range of temperatures and comes in many different sizes to fit your particular application.
Optima batteries are expensive, but they are known for working in all conditions, orientations, and last a long time, many times longer than the car. They have batteries for SUVS, trucks, and other vehicles besides just a standard car.
]]>Read on to learn how to save money off of the process of washing, waxing and polishing your car.
Look for Discount Materials
If you decide to do your own car detailing at home, you'll save money by looking for car products discounted from their regularly priced levels. Discount car wax, cleaning solutions, chrome polisher and a variety of other tools and materials you need to detail your car are available, but they do require some searching on your part. Look online for discount retail stores that specialize in these materials. You may also wish to contact local auto body shops to learn about where they get their supplies. Finally, many car body equipment stores offer seasonal sales and rebate offers. Keep an eye on your local paper and online for sales listings, and stock up on materials when they have been marked down.
Use Your Materials Wisely
Many of the cleaning solutions and other materials you purchase to detail your vehicle can be used sparingly and for multiple projects, provided you know what you're doing. Read the instructions carefully on any cleaning solution before you apply it directly to your car. Many of these solutions require you dilute them with water. This serves to not only weaken the solution so it won't damage some component of your vehicle, but also means you'll be able to make the solution itself last longer, saving you money. The same applies for car wax, chrome polish and other materials as well.
Detail Regularly
The less frequently you detail your vehicle, the more intensive the project is and the more likely it will cost you a good amount of money. In order to keep your costs down, it helps to detail the vehicle more regularly. Try to give your car a full detailing job every three months or so. This way, none of your materials will expire or go bad in the meantime, and the amount of cleaning you need to do in between detailings will be minimized. It also helps keep your car looking its best.
The Main Benefits of Acrylic Paint
Acrylic lacquer paint was used in the 1920's through to the 60's, though in some places it is illegal. This paint is easiest for those with little to no experience painting a car, as it is inexpensive and is easy to apply. You also get a nice high gloss on the finish.
Acrylic enamel paints last a lot longer, as they form a hard shell when they dry. When this paint is applied by a professional the paint is actually baked onto the car. There are two versions of enamel paint; one that requires a clear topcoat called a two stage system and one that does not, a single stage system.
The newest acrylic paints are acrylic urethane paints. These act like both enamel and lacquer paints as they are easy to apply like lacquer and last like enamel. You can use these types of paints by themselves or in a multi stage system. The most recommended version is a two stage system that uses the paint and clear coat.
Disadvantages
These paints all have some disadvantages. Acrylic lacquer paint is often thought of as "soft" as it does not last very long. If it is exposed to chemicals or UV then it wears very easily. Enamel paints are much more difficult to apply and should not be the first choice for those painting their own car. You also will need to do plenty of finish work as most need a clear topcoat.
Acrylic urethane paints are a mixture as they contain the color, a reducing element to make it the right consistency for the spray gun and a catalyst that makes it dry fast. Once the pain is mixed it needs to be used immediately. This paint is also very toxic and you need plenty of personal protection equipment when applying.
Choosing the Right Color
When choosing paint you need to think about which acrylic paint is best for your car as well as the best color. Not all colors work on every car. Most car manufacturers spend a lot of money determining the best color for each model. The different stage systems you choose will also affect the.
Think about what you want your paint color to achieve. Should it try to hide body lines or highlight specific features? Do you want the paint to help make the car look smaller? Never pick the color out of a chip book, as these are not paint but ink and will not be a close match to the color you want. You can find a car color you like and ask for color code. Then see if there are any variants or alternates of this color. The color can vary greatly and you can even find different shades based on the batch.
If you wish to use acrylic car paint to paint your vehicle, bear in mind a few techniques that could help you attain good end results. Acrylic enamel paints are fast drying. If you mix them with acrylic enamel urethane hardeners, the gloss and durability of the paint increase. However, acrylic urethane paints are more long lasting when compared to enamel paints. Urethane paints have to be mixed with a urethane reducer and a urethane activator to get the right viscosity. When it comes to acrylic lacquer paints, they are fast drying formulas that provide a glossy finish. These paints are also resistant to chipping and fading. As a general guideline, they have to be mixed with a lacquer thinner so they're easier to spray. Although you may choose any of these paints to work with, make sure you wear the right protective gear to safeguard yourself from toxicity. Also follow the techniques listed below to get professional results.
Repair the Surface
Before you start painting the vehicle, you need to get rid of any dents and scratches that are present. To work on dents, remove any rust or paint on the affected area. Use an electric grinder to help. After applying body filler to the dent, you will have to wipe it off according to the instructions and then sand the surface to get an even finish.
Prepare and Prime the Car
If you're doing a full body paint job, you have to sand the entire vehicle before you start applying the primer. Work slowly when sanding the vehicle so you get good end results. Once you've finished sanding the surface of the car, apply good quality primer that's ideal for the type of paint you wish to use. Paints often react to certain primers. It's important to read the technical data sheets of the products you purchase.
Clean the Surface
After the primer has been applied, the surface has to be sanded again to make it smooth. Since this sanding process causes dust and particles to settle on the surface, use a grease remover to clean the metal.
Mix the Paint
One of the most important techniques used to get a paint job done properly is correct mixing of the paint. Follow the instructions listed on the paint package and use a paint mixing pail to help you attain the right viscosity. You may have to use a particular brand of thinner or reducer if required. Paint that's too thin will run lines, while paint that's too thick won't flow out easily from the spray gun.
Apply the Paint
The paint needs to be applied in thin coats and left to dry completely after each coat is sprayed on. You could also use a clear coat to finish off. It's important to follow these principles of painting in order to get a professional finish. If you're painting the car for the first time, practice using the spray gun on any other metallic surface before working on your vehicle.
The most common time to begin car waxing is during the summer months. People emerge from the cold of winter, and think that their car looks rather drab beside the flowers. But winter can be tough on some cars, and giving them a good wax during this period can really help to give them a new lease of life. However, waxing during the cold weather can be difficult, particularly if you have an older car, or are using a good quality car wax. Knowing the right temperature to wax your car will help to keep the vehicle shiny and looking brand new.
Waxing during Summer
Car waxing often takes place during the summer months, when there is more daylight available, and you have more time to spend outside in the sun. Waxing during dry weather is important, as unless you are using a high-quality paste, the wax needs time to dry out before it is fully able to protect the car. If you wax your car during the summer, there are some temperatures you should avoid. Any day above 80 degrees will not be a good day to try and wax your car. Try not to place your car in direct sunlight while waxing, and avoid intense heat. The best time of day to wax the car during summer is definitely in the evening, so that the car has several hours of darkness to fully dry before being exposed to the mid-day sun.
Waxing during Winter
You should probably apply more wax during the winter time. It is a good idea to apply a full coat of wax before the very beginning of winter, as this will help to protect your car from early frosts. You should also wax during dry periods before snow or rain showers, in order to protect your car from moisture and cold. Car wax should ideally be applied when the temperature is between 60 and 80 degrees, but wax will still be liquid at around 50 degrees, and can be put onto the car. Before waxing, do a little bit of car detailing to make sure the surface is completely clean, and then spread the wax over in small, quick circles. Once you have added the wax to the car, try and place it in some sunlight, or near a heat source.
Now is a good time to practice your car buffing technique, as you need to move the wax around the body of the car, keeping it warm through the movement you are creating. During the cold spell, your car wax will not dry as normal, so allow a few more hours for the wax to fully dry before you use your car.
Will a Car Wax Buffer Take out Small Scratches?
A car wax buffer is a machine that spins a buffer pad in an orbital pattern and is used for applying and removing paint care compounds such as polish, rubbing compound and wax. Small scratches in your paint's surface can be easily and quickly removed using a car wax buffer using a polish or rubbing compound. However, extreme care must be used when using one of these machines because the increased pressure and speed of motion these machines allow and produce can easily ruin the paint on your car. If you're unfamiliar with the proper method of using a buffer, you should practice on an area that isn't conspicuous and use very minimal pressure.
Will Clear Coat Wax Give a Better Shine?
You've seen advertisements for clear coat wax. This is a type of wax that is especially designed for use on paint jobs that are sealed with a clear coat. This type of wax product can deliver a deep and lustrous shine to your car's clear coat sealed paint. Traditional paste waxes were originally formulated using Brazilian Carnauba wax. This wax actually distorts the color of finishes it is applied to. Clear coat wax is specially formulated to be perfectly clear and not distort your car's underlying paint color. Carnauba based waxes may cause a warmer shine and luster to come from your paint job, but clear coat waxes will allow the real color to shine through.
Do I Have to Use a Specific Car Wax for Black Cars?
You want to know if there is a special type of car wax for black cars. Specifically, you're curious whether you should use a carnauba, a synthetic or a black color-matched wax on your black color. Black colored wax is great to use if your black painted car has fine swirls or scratches in it, because the pigment in the wax will fill the swirls and/or scratches. If there are no imperfections in your car's paint, then what type of wax you use will depend on what you're more comfortable with, and even how much time you have to detail your car. If you have plenty of time, a carnauba wax will give a warm luster to your car. If you're in a hurry, a synthetic spray on wax will go on and wipe off quickly.
Car Wax vs. Polish: Are they the Same?
The car wax vs. polish argument has been going on for a number of years and can lead to a great deal of confusion. Car wax is used when there are no imperfections in your car's paint finish to bring out a warm and brilliant luster. Buffed properly, a good quality carnauba based wax will give your car's paint that perfect "wet look" everyone looks for. Polish is a combination of a very light rubbing compound and a wax mixed into a single product. If your car has fine swirls, tiny scratches or water spots, using a polish after washing will erase those imperfections.
]]>Polishing Methods
There are two common methods that can be used when you are ready to apply your wax:
Deciding to polish a car or wax it can be a difficult choice without some understanding of what each does and how they differ. Polishes tend to be designed to remove paint imperfections and prepare the paint finish for waxing, providing a deep shine and protection from the elements. Modern car finishes have a protective clear coat on top which can easily show swirl marks and scratches, especially on darker paint colors, so it is best to use only products intended for use on clear coat finishes.
Wash
Before a car can be polished or waxed it must be properly cleaned. The dirt on a car can be abrasive; therefore, it is best to thoroughly rinse off as much of the dirt and grime as possible prior to washing. Avoid getting water on the engine or any electrical parts under the hood, as this may cause damage. Only use products designed for automotive finishes; harsh cleaners can damage the paint. Washing and rinsing the car section by section, starting with the roof, will help prevent water spots which can be difficult to remove after the car has dried. After thoroughly washing and rinsing, dry the car using an automotive grade microfiber cloth or squeegee.
Polish
Car polishes are generally longer lasting that car wax and provide better protection; although, they may not provide as much shine. A high quality polish can help eliminate minor surface scratches and swirl marks if used correctly. Car polishes are slightly abrasive; they strip the paint surface, so it is highly recommended that a car also be waxed after it has been polished for an added level of protection. Some experts suggest avoiding the use of polish on newer cars and instead stick to using only a high quality wax. Many new auto polishes also contain waxes to provide a high level of protection and shine.
Wax
Car wax options include paste or liquid and usually contain carnuba or synthetic wax. Carnuba waxes tend to give a better shine but do not last as long as synthetic waxes while synthetic waxes tend to provide a higher level of protection, especially against the sun. Some people may choose to layer carnuba wax over a synthetic based wax in order to achieve a higher level of protection and deeper shine. Cars should be waxed several times a year in order to maintain the proper level of protection. If a soft cloth does not easily glide against the surface of a clean car, or if water does not bead on the surface, it indicates the car needs to be waxed. Car wax sits on the paint surface to protect it from the elements.
Older cars will benefit the most from a car polish, especially if the finish has begun to fade or show other surface imperfections. Following this up with a coat of high quality wax will help protect the finish from further damage. Regular washing and waxing will help maintain the showroom shine and protect the paint finish from damage. Check the owner's manual or with the dealer to determine the best type of product to use.
]]>At a car detailing service professionals using special tools will clean your vehicle of dirt and road grime, both inside and out and in detail. In addition to having a very clean car, the process of car detailing will also help to keep the vehicle in excellent condition and therefore retain more resale value. The challenge when shopping for a detailing service is finding one that will cover all of the required aspects of detailing.
Paint Care
The paint on your car is a very delicate thing, and most reputable detailing services with deal with it in a three step process that cleans, corrects and protects the paint surface. The cleaning step consists of properly washing and drying the car to remove any dirt and grime. Next comes clay bar application, which removes contaminants in the clear coat such as industrial fallout, metal particles, dirt and tar. Once this has been done, if needed, the paint will be polished to remove any swirl marks and fine scratches before being sealed via waxing to protect the paint and help it to shine.
Chassis and Wheels
The undercarriage and chassis of your car should be cleaned along with the rest of the exterior. This not only includes directly under the car, but also inside the wheel wells and around the major suspension components such as anti roll bars and control arms. The plastic splash guards and inner fender liners should be dressed with a plastic protectant, and wheels and tires should be washed thoroughly before being dressed in a protectant that improves their luster and protects from corrosion and cracking.
Headlights, Taillights and Exterior Trim
Many detailing services will apply a polishing compound to headlights and taillights showing signs of oxidation, but properly sealing them after wards with a plastic sealant is an important step. Chrome trim should be cleaned, and any vinyl or plastic trim should be dressed with a protectant to help them resist cracking and fading. In addition to plastics and rubbers, many detailing services also clean the chrome or polished exhaust tips as part of their service.
Interior Detailing
Interior detailing should at minimum include a cleaning of all carpeting and seating surfaces. This is done either by shampooing or by using a steam cleaner. In addition, all plastics and vinyl should be properly cleaned and dressed, and any leather should be conditioned and cleaned. This is not limited to the passenger area, and many thorough services will also include the trunk area in the detailing package.
Engine Bay
While many detailing services may not include this in their standard packages, it is a very important aspect of automotive detailing. The engine bay should be lightly misted with water, and then cleaned with a suitable degreaser before being rinsed clean. Once properly dried, all silicone, plastic and rubber components should be properly dressed to protect them from cracking.
Costs Associated with a Car Detailing Service
A standard car detailing service should range in cost between $50 and $150 depending upon your location, the type of vehicle you drive and the quality of services being offered by the company or individual. Larger vehicles such as SUV's and vans typically cost more, as does an upgraded package consisting of even more attention to detail. You can expect to pay additional fees for the highest quality shampoos and cleaning products, the use of special equipment, superior waxing, steam cleaning or shampoo of interior carpets and cleaning of leather upholstery. You may want to take advantage of additional services including engine cleaning, dent removal or wheel detailing.
When you wish to employ a car detailing service you can take the word of former customers, you can look them up in your local phone book and take your chances or you can review them online and see if your choice is BBB certified. Everyone will have different needs when employing a car detailing service. You'll want to know if they have different packages, and whether they have adequate facilities. Here are some things you'll want to explore when choosing a car detailing service.
Features Wanted
Depending on the features that you require in your car detailing, you should shop around for those detailers that can provide you with what you want. If you're looking for a simple car wash and vacuum, you might consider concentrating your efforts on a company that has more modest offerings. With a company that provides expansive services, you will find that their rates may not be as reasonable.
Pricing
Many times car detailing services will have a specials day. Some will choose a slow day in their week and either give a discount for specific people, like lady's day, or they may give a Wednesday special. If this kind of benefit is in your schedule, you can sometimes save up to 20 percent. Car detailing companies that use a lot of bells and whistles, like impressive facilities or cleaner looking employees and grounds, may also be more expensive. On the other hand, those places that take better care of their employees and facilities may be more reasonable than you would think, because they have plenty of business.
Reviews
Look online and check out reviews of detailing companies in your area. People will put their opinion online regardless of whether their comments are positive or negative, because of the anonymity of the Internet. With the world wide web readily available, it's easy to get the recommendations you need in order to learn which choice will work best for your requirements.
Affiliations
Many businesses become affiliated with companies that certify the responsibility and reliability of businesses. Organizations like the Better Business Bureau are reliable sources of information on car detailing companies. Ones that are reputable will join these organizations in order to advertise through their services, and validate their product and services.
General Considerations
Regardless of what your requirements are, you can find the perfect car detailing service. If you intend to use the same business for repeat service, you can even find that they will give you a frequent-flyer type of discount. Some car detailing services reward loyal customers with discounts, coupons, and specials like periodic oil changes or fluid checks. Service is important, and perks that your chosen car detailing shop provides may be the very thing that will steer you toward your perfect business. Be sure to ask the manager if they have any benefits for return customers. You might be pleasantly surprised.
Are There Any Auto Detailing Chemicals that I Should Stay Away from?
There are a lot of detailing chemicals out there today and most of them take very good care of your car. The reason for this is that they are made specifically for your car so they will not harm it. However, detailing chemicals to avoid are ammonia-based glass cleaners since they could leave marks on your windows and windscreen. Avoid laundry detergents also since they are too harsh for your car's finish. A lot of detailers also still use kerosene to remove asphalt and other stubborn substances so you should avoid them as well. These are some of the detailing chemicals that you should stay away from when caring for your car.
What are the Best Products to use for Engine Compartment Detailing?
There are a lot of products that you can use for engine compartment detailing. One type of product is an engine degreaser. This is one of the best products that you can use to clean your engine. It is the first step when detailing the engine since it removes stubborn dirt and grime. You can also use rubber and vinyl protectors to coat and protect the rubber hoses in your engine. If you have chrome in your engine, you should also use chrome polishes to bring back their shine. These are some of the best and most recommended products for engine compartment detailing.
Can a No Water Car Wash Get My Car Just as Clean?
Yes, a no water car wash can also get your car just as clean when compared to a car wash that uses water. This type of car wash uses special products and cleaners that are sprayed onto the surface of your car. These products are specifically designed to remove dirt, dust and other stubborn substances that have dwelled on your paint job. However, in executing this type of car wash, it is important that you know perfectly well how to go about it. You just don't spray and wipe. There are specific steps and procedures in order to effectively clean the car and avoid damaging the paint. A no water car wash is an effective and easy way to clean your car but the right method should be followed.
Will Automated Car Wash Systems Damage My Car?
It actually depends on which one of the automated car wash systems that you go to. There are some automated car washes that can damage your paint job because too little water is used or the brushes that clean your car have too much dirt stuck to them. It is actually recommended to use those pressurized car washes that just use water and soap with no contact at all, meaning nothing lands on your car's surface except soap and water. Actually, if you think about it, there will always be the risk of damage whether you clean your car manually or go through an automated car wash because it all depends on the manner of how your car is cleaned.
Does the Type of Soap Really Matter When Detailing Your Car?
Detailing your car starts with the correct cleaning agents to use in removing the stubborn dirt and grime. Therefore, it is safe to say that the type of soap that you use does matter. It should be effective enough to thoroughly clean the dirt but mild enough not to damage your paint job. For example, using powdered detergent is definitely not recommended because, although it can remove the dirt, it will leave white streaks on your paint when washed off and the granules in the soap will scratch the surface of your car for sure. When detailing your car, try to find the best soap or shampoo on the market which will be perfect for your application.
]]>Auto paint sealant is manufactured from synthetic waxes and is designed to better protect the surface of the car from the elements. In addition, most paint sealants consist of polymers and silicones which adhere to the surface of the paint and thus offer better protection than wax, but they also tend to provide less shine. Many newer formulas of paint sealant contain micronized ingredients which allow them to more easily penetrate the paint surface, providing longer lasting protection and improved shine. Most paint sealants are in liquid or spray on form. While most car waxes require that it be applied, allowed to dry, and then buffed, many auto paint sealants require only that it be applied with a soft cloth; no drying or buffing required.
Car wax should only be used on clean, dry surfaces, in the shade. Car wax should be applied to one surface at a time, allowed to dry, and then gently removed using a soft cotton cloth or automotive style microfiber cloth. Many auto enthusiasts recommend first using an automotive paint cleaner, followed by an automotive paint sealant, and then several coats of a high quality wax. This will provide a longer lasting, higher level of protection and the maximum level of shine. Only use products intended for automotive applications and do not apply them to glass, plastic, rubber, or vinyl surfaces. Car wax and auto paint sealant ingredients vary greatly between manufacturers. However, choosing high quality products will help assure long lasting protection and shine.
]]>Car polish is used before you apply the wax coat. It is used to remove grease, dirt, scrapes, and scratches that cannot be removed from washing. This is a type of car wax prep and car detailing product. Polish comes in the form of creams, sprays and liquids and contains solvents that will remove impurities to allow the paint to shine through.
Polishes are different from waxes as the polish will remove dirt but will not provide any protection. It is used before waxing and you want to use a pretty large amount of polish on a cloth. You want to polish using a circular movement or you can even use an electric car polisher. You do need to be careful, because if you polish too much, then you may take off too much paint and expose the primer or undercoat.
Car wax is used after washing and polishing to add a layer of shine to the car as well as a layer of protection. It is a type of paint sealant. If there is any dirt or stains on the paint, then the wax will seal it on the car. Wax will protect your car from UV rays and will prevent pollution and other dust from damaging your car. It also minimizes the moisture that comes into contact with the paint, as water causes corrosion.
Many people feel that waxing can damage the car but not if you use a good quality wax that contains natural ingredients. Using wax will actually increase your car’s life and can be very beneficial. You can apply car wax very fast and there are many different brands and forms of wax. You do not want to apply a lot of wax as too much can actually damage the paint. It is best to apply a thin, even layer using a sponge or soft cloth.
The use of polish or wax will depend on what your car needs. If you have a lot of scratches or rust then polish will be the product of choice. Waxing helps to protect the car and produce a high shine. You should wax your car approximately every 3 months, but polishing only needs to be done when you notice problem spots.
Ultimately you should check out your car after washing but before waxing to see if you need to use polish. By getting to nicks and scratches quickly you can minimize damage. Scratches that are left untreated can begin to rust and may eventually form small holes.
Before using any type of wax or polish it is important to read the directions and perform a test on a small spot. The ingredients of wax and polish all vary and may affect your cars paint in different ways.
]]>You have to be careful whenever you are using extremely hot temperatures whenever you are waxing your car. For starters, make sure your car has been turned off for a while. If you have just turned off your car then it will be too hot for the wax to properly do its job. It is also a good idea to try not to wax your car on a specifically hot day. While hot car wax is something that is used often for cars, the actual temperature of the car or the surroundings should not be as hot. It is best to wax your car in the shade on especially warm days. This will help the wax to do its job properly. If the sun is beating down onto your car as you wax, then it will bake the wax onto your car. This can make the wax very difficult to remove and it can actually do more harm than good to your coat of paint.
Cold temperatures can be almost as unhelpful as hot. When the surroundings of the car are very cold, then you will find that it can be difficult to get any movement out of the wax. Cold car wax can be used on your car. But if it gets too cold, then it could cause issues. Cold wax can only be so cold before it becomes unusable. You will find the car and wax together can withstand different temperatures depending on the wax itself. Paste and liquid waxes tend to work best whenever you are working with colder temperatures. The best way to tell is to simply place a small amount of wax on the car and wipe it off with your finger. If the wax comes off without any issues, then you should be fine.
Whether you are waxing your car in hot or cold temperatures there are ways around it. It is always recommended to wax your car in a comfortable temperature. If it is too hot or too cold you will find the wax could be difficult to remove or could do damage to the coat. You are not required to wax your car more than once a year unless it is a show car or if you live in an extreme environment. It is recommended if you do take place in waxing your car just once a year, you do so during the spring or the fall when the temperatures are not very hot or cold.
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