what do you guys use to wash and wax your car? i use a generic soap, i'm always figuring the type of soap doesn't matter as long as it gets it clean. wax is a huge issue though.

i use mequiars nxt gen and i kinda like it. i don't have an orbital, so i do it by hand.

i know to get the best shine i should do a whole bunch of other stuff, but i have no clue what.

help?

 

People have told me....

#1 Wash
#2 Clay Bar
#3 Polish
#4 Wax

I would like to know what others say?

 

Broad range of answers depending on what problems you might face and what your expectations are.

I use mostly all Mothers... car wash, clay bar, and a variety of their waxes. Easiest stuff I've used is their FX SynWax -- easier to apply than NXT, slightly richer look with better finish, and it lasts a little longer (at least on my car that sits out 24/7).

Different wash concentrates have different formulas for anti-water-spotting and brigteners... some seem to work better depending on the water you have.

If you've got a new car with no defects, you can probably get away with regular use of a synthetic car wax like FX SynWax.

Wash
Dress your trim
Clay
Wax (which may be one, two or 3-step products).

Whatever you do, use something to protect your finish. Even if you seal-in spiderwebbing, at least it's protected.

 

I am very particular about my vehicles I have recently tried and was very pleased withOptimum No Rinse Wash. I was skeptical at first but Justin swore by the stuff. What I liked the most about it was that the wash/dry steps happen at the same time and makes washing easier, if there is such a thing, you don’t have to wash, rinse then dry. I highly recommend this product; you can contact Juztang for more details.

Jim D. is right you usually find something you like and stick with it.

http://www.obsessivedetail.com/optimum.html