Classic car washing and detailing is not like cleaning a regular vehicle to keep it shiny. You need to wash your classic with attention to detail and, in many cases, specialized materials designed with preservation in mind. Using the wrong tools or techniques to clean a classic car can result in costly damage that can be challenging to have repaired. You also need to be aware of rust, which is more of a prominent issue with older cars.
Maintaining our vintage vehicles in pristine condition is a labor of love, and one of the most gratifying tasks is washing them. It is summertime, which is a great time to wash and shine your classic car so that it looks great when you are cruising, or even when it is parked in the driveway.
Keeping a classic car shiny requires consistent care and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you maintain the shine of your classic car:
Hand Wash Only
All cars should be hand washed but especially classic cars. Machines simply do not do a great job; they miss spots and do not dry the vehicle properly, leading to corrosion. To properly clean a classic car, it must be washed and dried by hand. There is no way around it. Fortunately, even the largest vehicles do not take long to clean.
Use the Right Products
Your classic car deserves the best, and this includes the products you use to clean it. Avoid household detergents and soaps as they can strip off the car’s wax and damage the paint. Invest in a high-quality car shampoo or soap specifically designed for auto detailing. These are pH balanced and contain lubricants that encapsulate dirt and grime to prevent scratching.
Employ the Two-Bucket Method
One of the best techniques to wash your classic car is the two-bucket method. Fill one bucket with clean water and the other with your car soap solution. Dip your wash mitt in the soapy water, clean a section of the car, then rinse the mitt in the clean water before returning to the soapy water. This method ensures you are not dragging dirt and grit across your car’s paint, minimizing the chance of scratches.
Wash in the Right Conditions
Choosing the right conditions for washing your classic car is crucial. Avoid washing under the hot sun as it can cause water and soap to evaporate quickly, leaving behind spots and streaks on the paint. Instead, choose a cloudy day or a shaded area. Likewise, avoid washing your car when the body is hot, such as right after driving or if it has been parked in the sun.
Dry Your Car Properly
Drying your car is just as important as washing it. Leaving it to air dry can result in water spots from minerals in the water. Use a soft, absorbent microfiber towel or a car drying towel to gently dry your car. A high-quality drying towel can absorb a lot of water and will not scratch the paint.
Do Not Forget the Details
Once your classic car is clean and dry, do not forget about the details. Use a clay bar to remove embedded contaminants from the paint. Remember to polish chrome parts and clean the windows with a streak-free glass cleaner. And do not forget to wipe down the door jambs and around the hood and trunk. The engine compartment also needs periodic detailing as well.
It is also a good idea to apply high-quality car wax after washing. Not only will it give your vintage car a brilliant shine, but it will also add a layer of protection against the elements.
Polishing
Periodically use a non-abrasive polish to remove light scratches, oxidation, and swirl marks. Polishing helps restore the paint’s luster and clarity. Do not forget the windows which can also be cleaned and polished to add to the car’s luster.
Handle with Care When Classic Car Washing
When you are working around the car, use care to avoid accidentally scratching or damaging the paint. Soft-touch techniques minimize the risk of scratches.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade paint and cause oxidation. Whenever possible, park your classic car in a shaded area or use a car cover to protect it from UV rays.
Avoid Automatic Car Washes
Automated car washes can cause scratches and damage to classic car finishes. The best choice is for hand washing or touchless car washes instead.
Cleaning Classic Cars Using a Waterless Wash
As a practice, if possible, I try not to use a hose and bucket to wash a classic or antique car. The reason why is because you do not want to inject water into places you cannot reach to dry where it can potentially cause rust. Rust is one of the worst types of destruction to classic and antique cars and removing rust can be quite costly. So, if possible, a good best practice is to only use a waterless wash when cleaning restored antique and vintage cars.
Finally
Washing your classic car is more than just a routine task; it is a ritual that plays an integral part in the preservation and enjoyment of our beloved vehicles. By following these tips, you will ensure that your vintage beauty remains a head-turner for many more years. So, roll up your sleeves, prepare your buckets, and let’s give our classics the care they deserve!
