Exterior care

Keeping your car clean is a constant battle - both with the elements and road grime too! But polishing and waxing paintwork and bodywork is about much more than keeping the car looking like new - it will help the car last longer too.

Here we reveal the top product pics for all the kit you'll need to keep your motor sparkling, including polishes, bumper shines, screenwashes, bug shifters and pressure washers.

What's more, our handy tips show you how to make the most of all of them.

Q. How can I stop grit scratching my paint when washing?

A. There are several ways to prevent scratches. When washing, work from the top down and leave the last six inches, as this is the grimiest, while completing the rest of the car. Wash the final six inches at the end with plenty of water. You can also use two sponges, allowing the grit to soak out of one in the bucket while using the other. A mitt, such as our test-winning noodle microfibre from Kent (£3.99), can hold huge amounts of water, reducing the risk of grit being dragged across paint.

Q. I have seen blades used to dry cars. Are they safe?

A. Our road test team has used these for years, but you do have to take care. Problems start when grit is drawn across panels under the blade, so it is vital to thoroughly rinse the car to ensure only water remains. Working from the top down, a blade will shift huge amounts of water from paintwork and glass, although streaks will remain, particularly on curved panels. Finally, use a real or synthetic leather, or one of the new microfibre cloths, to get a completely water-free finish.

Q. I don’t have time to polish – is there a quicker alternative?

A. Manufacturers have developed a host of products for those who want to protect their car, but can’t spare the time. Most involve applying a solution after the car is washed and before it is dried. Simoniz’s Rinse Off Wax (£5.99) is wiped on then rinsed and dried. It narrowly proved to be the best in our latest wax test. For an even easier life, try CarPlan’s Demon Shine (£6.99) or Turtle Wax’s Wax it Wet (£6.49), which are both sprayed on before drying the car as normal.

Q. Should screenwash concentration change from winter to summer?

A. It depends on the screenwash you use. Some washes are ready mixed and need no diluting, while others have one concentration for all seasons. If you think this is all too much trouble, go for the latter. For top performance in winter or summer, change the dilution or look for products which specialise in bug shifting or beating the big freeze. Whatever you choose, be careful what you tip into the washer bottle, as you could either waste money by using more than you need, or end up with a concentration that does not do the job.