Key products to keep your car looking its best.

Essential cleaning products for any car enthusiast.

Any car enthusiast will tell you that keeping your car clean and tidy is vital to maintaining its value. An old dusty car which is covered in pollutants obviously looks much less attractive and valuable than a clean, polished car which glints in the sunlight.

Giving your car a quick wash once a week can take it from old and shabby to shiny and new – it really is that simple. Here’s a guide to the essential car cleaning products you need to maintain that showroom finish on your vehicle.

Wheel cleaner: The first product you need to consider is wheel cleaner. This product has been exclusively designed to remove excess dirt from wheels and alloys and restore them to their former glory. Wheel cleaners are available in a range of formats, including hand sprays for tough dirt and aerosols for the most stubborn stains.

Car shampoo: Used to remove dust, grime and pollutants from the surface of your vehicle, car shampoo is one of the most obvious cleaning products needed for your car. Available in three main formats; mild, gloss-enhancing and gloss and wash, the type of shampoo you need will ultimately depend on your vehicle and the type of finish you want to achieve.

Finish restorer and scratch remover: These products are used to remove unwanted flaws like scratches and restore your vehicle to its former glory. Products like T-Cut will remove the first layer of degraded paint to reveal the brighter paint underneath – while effective, it’s not advised you use products like this regularly.

Body wax: Although car servicing waxing is an option, many motorists prefer to do it themselves. Waxing can help to protect the car’s paintwork and can help to prevent rust, effectively adding value to your vehicle. Recommended car waxing products include Turtle Wax and Simoniz.

Bumper and exterior trim cleaner: Bumpers and exterior trims are often forgotten when it comes to cleaning cars, however when clean they can help to create a more polished image for your car. Coloured polish will help to restore the bumper to its original colour, while a cleaner will help to add valuable shine.