CAR CARE TIPS

Professional advice to keep your car looking its best

Basic Car Care

Washing Your Car

DO:

  • Wash in shade, never in direct sunlight
  • Use the two-bucket method (wash and rinse)
  • Work from top to bottom
  • Use microfiber mitts or towels
  • Rinse frequently to prevent dirt buildup

DON'T:

  • Use dish soap or household cleaners
  • Wash with a dirty sponge or rag
  • Let soap dry on the paint
  • Use circular motions when washing

Drying Techniques

Best method: Use a clean, dry microfiber towel or chamois. Pat dry instead of dragging to prevent scratches.

Pro tip: Air drying in shade is gentlest on paint, but water spots may form in hard water areas.

Paint Protection

UV Protection

Why It Matters

UV rays cause paint fading, oxidation, and clear coat deterioration. New Mexico's high altitude and intense sun make protection critical.

Protection Methods

  • Park in shade whenever possible
  • Use car covers for long-term storage
  • Apply quality wax every 3-4 months
  • Consider ceramic coating for ultimate protection

Interior Care

Regular Maintenance

Weekly Tasks

  • Remove trash and clutter
  • Vacuum seats and floor mats
  • Wipe down dashboard and trim
  • Clean interior glass

Monthly Tasks

  • Deep vacuum including crevices
  • Condition leather surfaces
  • Clean and protect vinyl/plastic
  • Treat fabric stains promptly

Common Mistakes

Avoid These Detailing Errors

Automatic Car Washes

Brush-style car washes can cause swirl marks and scratches. Stick to touchless or hand washing.

Using Old T-Shirts

Cotton t-shirts can scratch paint. Always use proper microfiber towels for car care.

Over-Waxing

More wax doesn't equal better protection. Follow product instructions for application frequency.

Ignoring Water Spots

Hard water spots can etch into paint if left untreated. Remove them as soon as possible.

Seasonal Care

Winter Protection

New Mexico winters can be harsh on vehicles. Prepare with:

  • Pre-winter wax application
  • Undercarriage protection from road salt
  • Regular washing to remove salt and debris
  • Interior protection from wet shoes and gear

Summer Care

High desert summers demand extra attention:

  • More frequent washing due to dust
  • UV protection is critical
  • Interior heat can crack leather and plastic
  • Use sun shades to protect interior

Professional Products We Use

FTY's Professional Chemical Arsenal

These are the premium products we trust for exceptional results:

Washing & Maintenance

  • CarPro Reset - Our go-to maintenance wash for regular cleaning
  • Koch Chemie GS - All-purpose cleaner and wash solution

Interior Care

  • CarPro Perl - Premium interior trim and tire finish
  • Koch Chemie PO - Professional interior cleaner
  • P&S Carpet Bomber - Heavy-duty carpet and upholstery cleaner

Protection & Polish

  • Gyeon Ceramic Coat - Long-lasting ceramic protection
  • 3D Polishing Pads - Professional-grade polishing system
  • 3D One or Speed - High-performance polishing compounds

Why Professional Products Matter

These aren't your typical auto parts store products. Professional-grade chemicals deliver consistent results, better protection, and longer-lasting effects.

Professional Application Required
These products require proper technique and equipment for safe, effective use.

Get The Same Products We Use

Shop Professional-Grade Products

Want to use the same premium products FTY trusts? Here's where to get them:

Washing Products

Interior Care

Protection & Polish

Purchase Tips

  • Always read product instructions carefully
  • Start with small test areas
  • Professional application recommended for ceramic coatings
  • Store products in cool, dry places

Need Professional Application?

These products work best with professional techniques and equipment. Let FTY handle the application for guaranteed results.

Book Professional Service

Equipment Investment Reality

Professional Equipment Costs

Want to detail like the pros? Here's what it really takes to get professional results:

Pressure Washing

Chemical Volumes

Polishing Equipment

Total Investment

Minimum Professional Setup:
$2,100+
Before you wash your first car

Reality Check

This doesn't include storage space, microfiber towels, buckets, drying equipment, protective gear, or the time to learn proper techniques. Most people underestimate the investment required for professional-quality results.

Why spend thousands when you can get guaranteed professional results?

Book FTY Professional Service

Professional vs. DIY

When to Call the Pros

Basic DIY Tasks

  • Weekly washing and drying (with basic equipment)
  • Interior vacuuming
  • Basic wax application
  • Glass cleaning

Note: Even basic tasks require proper technique and equipment for best results.

Leave to Professionals

  • Paint correction and polishing
  • Ceramic coating application
  • Deep stain removal
  • Engine bay detailing
  • Swirl mark removal
  • Compound and polish work

Save money: Professional results without the equipment investment.

Smart Choice: Professional detailing 2-4 times per year costs less than buying professional equipment and gives guaranteed results.

Need Professional Care?

Let FTY Performance handle the heavy lifting while you maintain the basics.

Schedule Service