brand new car.....

[SAMLLC]

I would like to gain some knowledge (that would be you all) on how to keep the finish of the paint in as good condition as possible (and the same with the interior, mostly leather). So far I have read alot about various products. Can some one help make things a little bit easier on me???? What products/methods should I use/follow for the exterior?
Thanks!!Feed back please

[Shane731]

Yeah, those of us who do this as a hobby do tend to over-complicate things. If you're wanting to stick to a certain product line, might I suggest DP (http://www.autogeek.net/detailers-pride.html)? Very good products at reasonable prices. I have about 14 different DP products, and I have no complaints with any of them. I have:

DP Max Wax
DP Poli-Coat sealant
DP Auto Bath shampoo
DP Waterless Wash
DP Final Gloss Quick Detailer
DP Rinseless Wash and Gloss
DP Krystal Vision Glass Cleaner
DP Total Interior Cleaner
DP Interior Surface Protectant
DP Cleanse-All Exterior Cleaner
DP tire gel
DP Plex-All
DP Universal Clay Lubricant
DP Polishing Pad Rejuvenator

If you want some more good reading and videos, check these out:

How-To Videos (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/show-car-garage-how-videos/26575-video-list-autogeek-s-show-car-garage-videos-mike-phillips.html)

How-To Articles (http://tinyurl.com/y9gcarg)

Auto Detailing Facts, auto detailing Tips, How to detailing Guides, how to polish, how to wax, DIY detailing, do it yourself guides (http://www.autogeek.net/detailingtips.html)


:welcome: to Autogeek Online!

[Dubbin1]

What kind of car are we talking about and where are you located? Answering those 2 questions will help determine whats best.

[Dubbin1]

Yeah, those of us who do this as a hobby do tend to over-complicate things. If you're wanting to stick to a certain product line, might I suggest DP (http://www.autogeek.net/detailers-pride.html)? Very good products at reasonable prices. I have about 14 different DP products, and I have no complaints with any of them. I have:

DP Max Wax
DP Poli-Coat sealant
DP Auto Bath shampoo
DP Waterless Wash
DP Final Gloss Quick Detailer
DP Rinseless Wash and Gloss
DP Krystal Vision Glass Cleaner
DP Total Interior Cleaner
DP Interior Surface Protectant
DP Cleanse-All Exterior Cleaner
DP tire gel
DP Plex-All
DP Universal Clay Lubricant
DP Polishing Pad Rejuvenator


I hate to say this but DP Poli-Coat Sealant is one of the worst products I have ever used.

[Shane731]

I hate to say this but DP Poli-Coat Sealant is one of the worst products I have ever used.

Any reason why? I thought it was quite easy to use.

[SAMLLC]

It is a Ford Edge and I live in Northern Va.

[Dubbin1]

You should talk to Dana (Asphalt Rocket) he is in Northern VA and would be more then happy to take a look at the car and point you in the right direction. I'll have to send you his contact info.

[jrose0070]

what color is the car

[SAMLLC]

The color is Bordeaux Reserve Red Metallic.

[Mike Phillips]

I would like to gain some knowledge (that would be you all) on how to keep the finish of the paint in as good condition as possible (and the same with the interior, mostly leather). So far I have read alot about various products. Can some one help make things a little bit easier on me???? What products/methods should I use/follow for the exterior?
Thanks!!Feed back please



In general terms, when it comes to the paint, you want to make sure that everything that touches the paint is of the highest quality you can obtain.

Clear coat paints are harder than traditional single stage paints but they still scratch very easily, this is called "Scratch-Sensitive". So when it comes to washing, drying, apply any kind of paint care products, etc. make sure everything is clean.

Don't take your car to a tunnel car wash and don't take your car to charity car washes, like the High School Volley Ball Team washing cars on a Saturday to make money for uniforms etc. Do support them if you like, just don't let them wash your car. Drive in and give them 5 bucks and then leave.

Take ownership of the washing and waxing process yourself, that way you can control the quality of products and the process.


When it comes to the interior, the key is not just finding quality products but doing regular maintenance, like once a month, use something to clean and condition the leather and especially any place your skin touches as your skin has body oils, sweat, etc and this will build-up on the surfaces and attract even more dirt. Once a month is a pretty good maintenance time frame for interior leather and if you use a one-step product like this it's fast and easy.

Pinnacle Leather Cleaner & Conditioner (http://www.autogeek.net/pileclco.html)
http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/autogeek_2131_13927730.jpg


On the Autogeek Store you can find wash mitts, car wash shampoos, polish and waxes, interior products and applicators etc.

A real fast way to get started would be to simply call Customer Care as they help people like you in the same situation everyday and can ask you a few questions and then help you get the right products right to your door.

Customer Care
1-800-869-3011

I'm sure others will chime in and share their favorites and suggestions...


:xyxthumbs:

[TLC Auto Detail]

Yeah, those of us who do this as a hobby do tend to over-complicate things. If you're wanting to stick to a certain product line, might I suggest DP (http://www.autogeek.net/detailers-pride.html)? Very good products at reasonable prices. I have about 14 different DP products, and I have no complaints with any of them. I have:

DP Max Wax
DP Poli-Coat sealant
DP Auto Bath shampoo
DP Waterless Wash
DP Final Gloss Quick Detailer
DP Rinseless Wash and Gloss
DP Krystal Vision Glass Cleaner
DP Total Interior Cleaner
DP Interior Surface Protectant
DP Cleanse-All Exterior Cleaner
DP tire gel
DP Plex-All
DP Universal Clay Lubricant
DP Polishing Pad Rejuvenator

If you want some more good reading and videos, check these out:

How-To Videos (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/show-car-garage-how-videos/26575-video-list-autogeek-s-show-car-garage-videos-mike-phillips.html)

How-To Articles (http://tinyurl.com/y9gcarg)

Auto Detailing Facts, auto detailing Tips, How to detailing Guides, how to polish, how to wax, DIY detailing, do it yourself guides (http://www.autogeek.net/detailingtips.html)


:welcome: to Autogeek Online!
While sticking to one line may simplify things, there is rarely one company that does everything good. For example I am a fan of DP's Xtreme foam, clay, and MaxWax. However I think their APCs/Degreasers and Selants are atrocious. It's hard to get the best results when using only one line. You have to look around and try different products and find out what works best for you.


I hate to say this but DP Poli-Coat Sealant is one of the worst products I have ever used.
Agreed

You should talk to Dana (Asphalt Rocket) he is in Northern VA and would be more then happy to take a look at the car and point you in the right direction. I'll have to send you his contact info.
Agreed again, there is lots of knowledge in his head, a baseball bat or hammer of some sort could extract all of it quickly. :xyxthumbs:

[silverfox]

With a new car, the 2 most important areas in my view are that you can do right away with minimal investment and time are:

1) Washing - to PREVENT swirls and scratches...learn how to do this properly. Nothing you can learn and perfect is an important as learning how to wash a car properly. You will save a whole lot of money and time later if you start off washing a new care properly. There are many quality wash products sold on AG.

2) Protecting - by applying a wax or sealant to protect the paint. Polishes and so forth are something you can buy later on once the car has a few months of outdoor wear and tear on it...but for now...get the paint clean, and protect it.

In a few months you can then see how your paint looks and then evaluate what other steps you need to take (if any)...

[loudog2]

How's the new ride? I am looking at the same one, just different trim(2011 Edge sport or 2011 Explorer).

[ScubaCougr]

While sticking to one line may simplify things, there is rarely one company that does everything... You have to look around and try different products and find out what works best for you.


I love the AutoGeek Samples for trying new products and product lines. Wish more brands were represented (hint, hint). With just my own daily driver, a full pint of something could last a year or more.

Our esteemed moderator says "find something you like and use it offen." With that strategy almost anything will work.

[TLC Auto Detail]

I love the AutoGeek Samples for trying new products and product lines. Wish more brands were represented (hint, hint). With just my own daily driver, a full pint of something could last a year or more.

Our esteemed moderator says "find something you like and use it offen." With that strategy almost anything will work.
I wish they carried more brands too.

I agree to find products you like, but just b/c you have a product you like doesn't mean to stop trying new products. There is so much changing in this industry, and so many different brands that you're bound to miss out on something if you only stick to one prduct. AG carries alot of good stuff, but there are brands and products that are never discussed on this board that are leaps and bounds ahead of the current "favs" here.

All that being said it can be hard for a DIYer to try every new product since you would be stuck with more products than you could use in a lifetime. The sample page is a great way to try new stuff, like you I just wish there was more represented, even if it was for a small fee.