What to use: Any soap specifically designed for automotive use will be mild enough to not damage the paint or strip the wax, and it won’t leave spots on your car’s finish.
How to do it: Follow the guidance on soap; more isn’t better. The suds will loosen dirt and grime; use a soft sponge or lambswool mitt to scrub. Wash in the shade: Direct sunlight can cause the soap to dry and leave stains. Work quickly, from the roof down, washing one section of the car at a time, in this order: Spray with water, wash with soapy water and the sponge using minimal pressure and a back-and-forth (not circular) motion, rinse off the soap with fresh water, move to the next section. Dry the car with a chamois or microfiber towel (air-drying can leave water spots). If there are bugs, tar, or sap on the car that won’t come off with soap and a sponge, use an automotive bug and tar remover, and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
