As we all can attest to, being an S2000 owner lends itself to OCD tendencies when it comes to the cleanliness of our cars. Over the last three years, I've managed to wash and wax my S2000 far less than I would prefer due to limited access to proper facilities. Since I wont be moving any time soon I would like to find the most efficient way to properly care for my car with the resources I have at my disposal.

My apartment complex has a dedicated car wash area that provides a standard water hose and a commercial interior vacuum. Sadly, access to electricity is non-existent so many of the luxurious detailing tools will be out of my realm of possibility. I'd like to minimize the need for elbow grease wherever possible so any tools or product recommendations to that end are highly welcome.

My current wash/wax process is quite basic. I use a standard over the counter car wash soap (Ice something or other) in conjunction with a microfiber based wash "mitt". I keep the entire car wet during the wash if sun/heat are a problem and once finished, I dry the car with a chamois. After a quick interior vacuum, I move the car to my covered parking spot where the car is completely protected from the sun. From here I can safely clay bar and/or wax the car. This is the part that takes the longest, typically three to four hours since I am doing it all by hand. I've used both Meguiar's and Mother's clay bar and liquid wax products but am open to other suggestions as well.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

Oh, and I REALLY need suggestions for a good window cleaner. I've tried quite a few products from Windex to RainX window cleaner and all of it has been utter rubbish.

- Rob

 

Prima Hydro kit FTW! I love the kit for easy care, you wax as you dry, or seal as you dry your choice. Soap is uber slick, and the wax and sealant are very nice. I detail cars as a hobby and have countless chems to use and I like this stuff because it is so easy to use and does a fantastic job for a regular wash and wax type upkeep.

Window cleaners, I have tried everthing too.. best I have found. "Spray Away" and Stoner's Invisible glass. Both require to be buffed as they dry to keep them from hazing.

 

no garage I take it?

 

Best window cleaner IMO is CG No Streak. I need to pick up a gallon next order, I got a 16 oz and have been using it on cars and home windows weekly. Better and easier to use than stoner's in my opinion.
http://www.chemicalguys.com/Window_C..._p/cld_677.htm

 

First off, I would change the chamois for a microfiber towel.. Chamois have a higher chance of "locking in" particles that could be pulled along and mar your paint. A good MF towel is less likely of this. And possibly look into optimum no rinse products for washing the car (if it isn't too soiled).

I still clay bar and wax by hand, no need for using a polisher. BUT if you want to perform paint corrections and remove swirls, that must be done by machine.

 

I agree with Spray Away window cleaner. It's cheap on Amazon and works really well.