Almost new car tips needed

[Underfed]

Hi,

First post here.

I just bought a 2006 Ford Fusion SEL. Took advantage of the 0 APR.

Unfortunately, its got 6000 mi, last one on the lot, so its not a virgin!

The dealership is lame at best on cleaning it.

Any tips on what to start out with to get it to that showroom look?

I read the Autogeeks site and then looked at local detailing shops, but they don't seem to take it as seriously as this group, so I decided to do it myself!

Thanks.

Underfed

[sparkie]

Congrats on the new car! Ford is coming out with some good looking cars now. First, car wash! Here the link:

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1714

[Underfed]

Thanks Sparkie, for the link.

A followup question.

They are going to "touch up" the missing paint along the door edge as well as buff out a couple of minor scratches.

Should I wait for some period of time before I wash and seal and wax?

Thanks.

Underfed

[sparkie]

Some say, you can wax right away, some say wait 30 days. Here is a link on it! Happy reading!
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1699

[ScottB]

http://www.autogeek.net/detailingtips.html

bookmark this .... makes easy understanding of each step. Then ask us all for specifics on the step you have chosen.

[justin_murphy]

Yeah that link is awesome. I still go to it now and then.
What color is it?
Post some pics of it's current condition and we will help you out.

[darksparkz]

I would wait about 30 days before applying wax or other sealants to it. You can still wash it or use Quik Detailer on it. They recommend waiting 30 days because the paint has to dry, the wax would close the pores earlier and not allow paint to dry properly.

I would recommend doing the whole process, wash, clay, polish, and waxing it. You can read much information off the AutoGeek guides. Claying is important for new cars because of rail dust that accumlated before the car was sent to the dealership.