How to Wash Your Car and Protect Its Value

Nothing grabs my attention faster than a classic car, especially when it’s stopped right next to me at a traffic signal. Who could miss the glistening, fire-engine red 1974 Triumph TR4 purring in anticipation of the light change?

Even though I don’t own one, I love classic cars. I really admire how some folks start taking excellent care of their cars from the outset. Of course the rest of us can do that even if our wheels are not considered “collectible.” Think how much longer your car would last—and how much more you would enjoy driving it—if it looked “good as new” for years.

Surprisingly, the time you invest in a little car care can really pay off -- and low cost car insurance in New York can be a part of that!

One of the simplest, most cost-effective ways you can maintain the appearance and value of your car is by washing and waxing it on a regular basis. During the winter it makes sense to take advantage of a drive-thru car wash, but in warm weather takes hold, you can make it a Saturday project. (If you have kids, this could be a good way of having a good time with the hose and offering a useful life lesson at the same time.)

To get your car shiny and bright, here’s are the simple steps to follow:

1. Gather supplies: hose, bucket, car sponge or mitt, car soap, bug-and-tar remover, car window cleaner, squeegee and paper towels, car wax. (Some car soaps include wax to save you time.)

2. Wet the exterior surface thoroughly to avoid scratches when rubbing.

3. Mix soap and tepid water in the bucket.

4. Apply the suds with mitt/sponge to one area at a time. Work from the top down, without letting the soap dry on the car surface.

5. Open the doors to clean the weather stripping, using a wet rag to remove the soap.

6. Spray bumpers and wheel wells with bug-and-tar remover. Wash and rinse well.

7. Dry the painted and chrome surfaces with a chamois or Sham-Wow cloth.

8. Apply the glass cleaner to the window exterior; dry with a squeegee and paper towel.

9. Waxing instructions will vary with products; follow them for best results.

As you enjoy the results and reap the compliments, consider tackling more challenging aspects of keeping your car shiny and bright following expert advice and videos. Talk to your agent about insurance discounts, too.

Regular maintenance and upkeep of any vehicle makes good financial sense for everyone. To maintain your investment, it also makes good sense to properly insure your vehicle. For great low-cost insurance in New York, you can rely on Hudson Valley Agents for friendly, personalized service.