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Car cleaning has evolved significantly due to industry advancements and current trends. Thanks to new formulations like ceramic and graphene waxes, the process takes less time and lasts longer than conventional waxes. Fading or yellowing headlights can now be restored to a brilliant shine instead of being replaced. Waterless solutions even allow you to completely remove water from the car wash process. Let’s explore some of the best products for car washing:

7 Best products for car washing

1. Almighty Pre-Wash: 

Pre-wash is essential for loosening the outermost layer of dirt and grime before rinsing and applying shampoo, snow foam, or other products. One of the top choices is the Almighty Pre-Wash from Car Gods. While it is recommended to use snow foam for the best results, even if it’s not perfectly clean, simply agitating, rinsing, and letting the product sit will reveal a glossy paint surface underneath.

2. Bilt Hamber Snow Foams: 

Bilt Hamber Snow Foam works best when used with a pre-wash, but it can be effective on its own. The latest version, Touch-Less, is made from biodegradable sugar-based ingredients with no solvents or caustic soda. It’s completely pH neutral, acting as both a pre-wash and an agitating snow foam.

3. Autoglym Ceramic Car Wash and Shampoo: 

When you use Autoglym’s car wash and shampoo, a layer of ceramic coating is left behind. This makes drying with a microfiber towel much easier, as the ceramic promotes water beading. While the ceramic coating offers moderate protection, it’s still an excellent and simple way to shield your vehicle’s paint.

4. Gtechniq W5 All-Purpose Cleaner: 

An all-purpose cleaner is one of the most versatile car cleaning products, and Gtechniq’s W5 APC stands out because it is 100% biodegradable. This product is excellent for touch-ups on any part of your car, from the dashboard to the bodywork. However, the downside is that the 500 ml bottle doesn’t last as long as a one-liter bottle or larger.

5. Autoglym Fast Glass: 

This product can be used on windows, mirrors, interior screens, paint, and plastics. Simply buff with a microfiber cloth after spraying each window. Though it doesn’t work as well on paint compared to other cleaning supplies, Autoglym’s Fast Glass is free from wax, silicone, and other abrasive materials. This ensures that the windscreen is left completely clear without any stains after treatment.

6. Autoglym Polar Blast:

Autoglym Polar Blast creates a thick foam layer on your car’s panels, which helps soak up dirt and release it for easier cleaning. It works well even with low-end pressure washers. The foam is highly effective at removing road grime and dirt, while still being easy to rinse off.

7. Meguiar’s X1905EU Microfiber Towel:

Microfiber towels are the go-to drying method for car enthusiasts. Unlike chamois, they are easy to use, lift water efficiently, and don’t leave scratches behind. This particular towel from Meguiar’s is not only soft but also large, allowing you to cover more surface area, and speeding up the drying process.

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Maintaining the cleanliness of your car is important to preserve its overall condition, beauty, and value. Both self-service and automatic car washes offer convenient solutions for car cleaning. However, car washing can sometimes harm the surface shine and paint. Let’s explore how car washes can damage your car’s paint and provide tips to avoid such damage.

How Car Washing Can Harm the Paint:

1. Scratches and Swirl Marks: 

Scratches and swirl marks are a major concern in car washes, especially when brushes are involved. These occur when dirt and residue from previous washes get trapped in the brush or cloth. Swirl marks appear as grid-like patterns on the surface when these particles are dragged across the paint, lightly scratching the clear coat. Although swirl marks may not be very deep, they can dull your car’s paint, reducing its overall shine and appeal.

2. Fading and Etching: 

Fading is another form of paint damage that can result from automatic car washes. Over time, this leads to the color looking washed out or even discolored. Etching, on the other hand, occurs when harsh cleaning materials containing acidic or alkaline compounds are used. This process degrades the surface of the car, creating dull or discolored patches on the paint.

3. Clear Coat Damage from Harsh Chemicals: 

Clear coat damage can occur in car washes, especially if the equipment isn’t well-maintained. Strong detergents used in some automatic car washes may break down dirt effectively, but the chemicals can also be tough on the car’s paint and clear coat. This can lead to fading or weakening of the protective layer, leaving the car vulnerable to further damage.

4. Oxidation and Mineral Deposits: 

Oxidation, which results in a dull or chalky surface, can be caused by exposure to water and cleaning agents used in car washes. If the water isn’t filtered properly, mineral deposits may form on the paint. These deposits can cause stubborn water spots that are difficult to remove and can eventually lead to more severe paint damage.

5. Paint Cracking and Overspray:

Paint cracking occurs when small fissures form in the paint, which can spread over time. Overspray, meanwhile, happens when paint or cleaning chemicals get onto areas that were not intended to be painted, such as trims or windows. This can occur during washing or painting, causing unwanted blemishes on the car’s surface.

6. High-Pressure Water Jets: 

High-pressure water jets can damage a car’s paint by causing chips or cracks, especially around edges and corners. Repeated exposure to high-pressure water can dull the paint and weaken the clear coat. In extreme cases, the paint may even peel off, particularly in areas where the paint is already compromised. Using proper techniques and keeping the pressure at a safe level can help minimize the risk of damage.

• Is Washing Your Car After a Windshield Replacement a Good Idea?
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• Top 7 Best products for car washing
• Will a Car Wash Scratch My Paint?
• Car wash smells like rotten eggs, Why?

Conclusion:

Without proper care, a car wash can indeed damage your vehicle’s paint. Failing to thoroughly dry the car afterward can leave water spots that lead to scratches or other imperfections. Dirt or impurities trapped under the clear coat can also cause rust over time. To prevent paint damage, you should consider regular polishing, waxing, and using paint sealants. These steps will help protect your car’s paint and keep it looking shiny and new.

Even though no one enjoys a smelly car, there are times when unpleasant odors develop. For example, getting a whiff of sulfur or a rotten egg smell while driving can be quite uncomfortable and awkward. However, identifying the cause and fixing it is often not a very difficult task. Now, let’s discuss the causes of a rotten egg smell in your car and how to eliminate this issue.

Possible Causes of the Rotten Egg Smell and How to Fix It:

If your car wash smells like rotten eggs, the most likely cause is a malfunctioning catalytic converter. This device converts harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide, a byproduct of combustion, into less harmful emissions. When the catalytic converter fails, sulfur compounds in the exhaust are not properly processed, leading to the rotten egg smell. Other potential causes include:

1. Old Transmission Fluid:

The transmission fluid is one of the first things you should check if your car starts to smell like rotten eggs. If it’s old or hasn’t been changed in a long time, it could be the cause of the odor. Over time, transmission fluid breaks down and can emit a foul smell similar to rotten eggs.

2. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter:

The most common cause of the rotten egg smell is a failing catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful gases into less harmful emissions. When it malfunctions, sulfur compounds in the exhaust gases are not properly processed, leading to the sulfuric or rotten egg smell.

3. Overcharged Battery: 

Your car’s battery contains water and sulfuric acid. When the battery is overcharged, sulfur can be released as hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs. An overcharged battery can be dangerous due to the flammable hydrogen gas it releases, so it’s important to address this issue promptly.

4. Faulty Fuel Pressure Sensor: 

The fuel pressure sensor regulates the engine’s fuel flow. A malfunctioning sensor can cause excess fuel to enter the catalytic converter, leading to the rotten egg smell as sulfuric gases are released. It’s important to check fuel filters and sensors if you detect this odor.

5. Dead Animals:

Although it sounds unpleasant, a dead animal near or inside your car could be the cause of the rotten egg smell. If you suspect this is the case, take immediate action to remove the animal before the odor becomes unbearable.

6. Oil or Gasoline Leaks:

Leaks in your car’s fuel line, fuel filter, injectors, valves, or gaskets can cause a rotten egg smell. It’s important to locate and address any leaks promptly, as they can lead to more serious issues if left unattended.

How to Fix the Problem if Your Car Smells Like Rotten Eggs:

Here are the steps you can take to fix these issues:

Check for Error Codes:

If your car has a “check engine” light, use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any error codes. These codes can help identify the problem.

• Is Washing Your Car After a Windshield Replacement a Good Idea?
• Car wash and interior cleaning are the same?
• Top 7 Best products for car washing
• Will a Car Wash Scratch My Paint?
• Car wash smells like rotten eggs, Why?

Check the Transmission Fluid: 

Make sure the transmission fluid level is adequate and that it has been changed according to your vehicle’s service schedule.

Check Fuel Pressure:

Use an automotive scan tool to verify that the fuel pressure sensor is providing the correct readings. If the sensor is faulty, it may need to be replaced.

Inspect for Leaks or Dead Animals:

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any fuel or oil leaks and check for dead animals or other debris that may be causing the smell.

Final Words:

One or more of the causes discussed above may be responsible for the rotten egg smell coming from your car. If you notice this unpleasant odor, it’s best to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will diagnose the problem and repair or replace the faulty part before the issue spreads to other engine components. If left unresolved, the smell could lead to more significant problems, including your car breaking down.