The Dos and Don'ts Of Washing Your Car

The 2016 Chrysler 200 stands out for its high-quality materials, upscale interior, and excellent safety scores. But it's also a winner for its attractive and sleek exterior. But in order to keep its exterior shiny and bright, you have to wash it. Before you grab the soap and a hose, here are some do's and don'ts when washing your ride.

When To Wash

Don't … wait for your car to be covered in layer after layer of filth before you wash it. External factors – dead bugs, pollen, chemicals from the atmosphere – can strip away wax and even eat away at your car's paint. When crud like this is left on your car for too long, it can cause damage that will need sanding and repainting to correct.

Do … wash your car weekly if you want to ensure it keeps an attractive exterior. Wash off dead bugs, pollen and tree sap as soon as possible. If you live in an area that suffers from acid rain, be sure to rinse your vehicle off after rainy weather to avoid damage. Acidic rain drops that evaporate on your car's surface will leave marks that can eat away at the paint.

Products

Don't … use household cleaning products. Hand soap, dishwashing detergent, glass cleaner, etc. are not formulated for use on your car's paint and can actually strip away its protective wax.

Do … use a dedicated car wash product. These products are milder and specifically designed for use on automotive paint. To remove grease, rubber, and tar deposits that often accumulate around the wheels and lower edge of your car's body, stronger products may be required.

Do … use a soft, natural sponge to wash your car to ensure no scratches are caused. Also use a soft, nonabrasive cloth to remove harder-to-remove deposits. When cleaning wheels and tires, use a separate sponge. These areas are typically coated in sand, brake dust, and other debris; all of these things can cause damage to your car's finish.

General Guidelines

Don't … wash your car immediately after driving or after it has been parked in direct sun for awhile. A hot car causes soap and water to dry faster. This can make washing more difficult, increasing the chance of spots or deposits forming.

Don't … move your sponge in circles. This might be a good way to wash a plate, but it's not suggested when washing a car. Small circles can create light, but noticeable scratches, or “swirl marks”. To avoid this, move your sponge lengthwise across your car's hood and other body panels.

Note: If you happen to drop your sponge on the ground, thoroughly rinse it before using it again. It may have picked up dirty particles from the ground, which can scratch your car's paint!

Drying

Don't … let your car air dry. This will leave it with water marks. Also avoid using abrasive towels or other materials that can cause scratches to the paint.

Do … use towels that are soft, terry cloth or natural or synthetic chamois. Blotting is the best method.

To learn more about the 2016 Chrysler 200, along with more automotive tips and tricks, visit our dealership in Emmaus, PA.