Car paint looks fantastic when the vehicle is new, but it can fade and become dull over time. It also can become damaged from scratches, nicks and bird droppings that are not removed promptly. Making your car paint look like new requires regular attention to keeping it clean and protecting it from the elements. You can find all the items you need at your local auto parts store or the automotive section of a hardware or department store.
Use a neutral pH car wash solution which removes dirt without harming your car's paint. Rinse your car off with water, then pour plenty of this soap onto a car chamois or soft sponge. Apply the solution to your car's exterior, starting at the top and working your way down, creating a lather. Leave the soap on for two or three minutes, but not long enough to start drying. Then rinse it off with water. A hose is best to make sure you rinse the car thoroughly and don't leave any dried soap spots or soap bubbles. Wash your car up to twice a week.
Apply car wax after washing. Use a dry car chamois or a soft cloth and apply the wax starting from the hood and working your way to the back. After you've waxed the entire exterior, wipe the car with a clean dry soft cloth to improve the shine.
Apply car polish after washing the car if you're not getting the results you want with washing and waxing or if the paint has obvious sun fading. Apply the polish in a circular motion. After it dries, buff the polish off with a clean polishing cloth. Wax the car afterward for protection and for extra shine.
Fill in nicks and small scratches with touch-up paint and a toothpick. Touch-up paint for specific colors is available at your local auto dealership in small containers and is inexpensive. Clean the area thoroughly first. Don't wax the car after painting for at least one month.
Remove bird droppings as soon as possible, although car wax will help counteract the damaging effects. Use a little car soap and water and a paper towel. If the substance doesn't come off right away, leave a wet soapy paper towel on top of the spot until it is easy to remove.
