A clean, maintained car not only looks good, but yields good resale results. However, trying to keep it in visibly pristine shape inside and out can be pricey. According to Mobile Tech RX, the average price of car detailing in the U.S. is $160.16. Don’t fret. You can give your car a makeover in the comfort of your own driveway. We’ll give you expert tips and hacks for car detailing at home.

Exterior cleaning

You don’t need expensive cleaners and tools to detail your car. But be careful when choosing products you plan to apply to the exterior. Subpar products will scratch the paint. A dedicated car wash liquid costs about $10. Avoid using dish soap and laundry detergent due to their harshness. You can find a durable liquid wax for less than $10 that will protect your car’s finish for a few months. DriveDetailed.com recommends specific mitts for cleaning your car’s exterior. Lamb’s wool, microfiber and sheepskin are best for avoiding paint scratches. Buy a wheel and tire cleaner that’s marked as safe for all wheels.

Interior cleaning

To clean the interior, there are many cost-effective tools you can buy and several you may already have. If your car has leather, use a cleaning product that’s marked for all leather surfaces. Cars with fabric surfaces will benefit from spray-on foaming cleaners. These work well on the carpeting also. Microfiber towels are good for wet and dry surfaces. For plastic and vinyl surfaces, your regular household glass cleaner is perfect. Just make sure it’s ammonia-free so you don’t discolor any non-glass surfaces. How about wiping down air vents, cup holders, knobs and more? Break out the makeup brushes, cotton swabs and barbecue skewers. They’re more than capable of getting into those tight creases and crevices and digging out dirt and debris.

Overall tips

When washing and waxing your vehicle, start at the very top and work your way down. The lower surfaces tend to be the dirtiest, and this method keeps you from having a filthy mitt early on. Exterior cleaners, like those for wheels and tires, typically cause dampness for a while. Wait and let the surfaces dry so you don’t attract dirt when you drive.

For more advice from car professionals or to see our inventory, contact Advantage Car & Credit today.