Cleaning Your Car

[Blackgrass]

What would you do if you had a brand new 4Runner from a cleaning/protecting aspect?
Beyond the basic car washing instructions, when is it time to think about paint protection, wax, polish, or an alternative? What would you recommend based on experience?

 

[Kania2k22]

I would think it's never too early to start the wax/protection process. There are several quality retailers out there, I've been using Zaino on my vehicles for the last 20 years, with a few things from Griot's Garage. Good luck.

 

[colemania]

Agreed - paint protection right away. Rather than waxes, there are lots of spray ceramic sealants out on the market that will last longer than traditional waxes. Would HIGHLY suggest you pursue an option like that. Good ol fashion hand wash and a spray ceramic sealant will take you a long way.

No need to polish car yet - would advise against. Think of your clear coat as only being so thick. You don't want to 'dip into' the clear coat to remove scratches when there are minimal scratches on a new car.

 

[johnnygraphic]

Check out Chicago Auto Pros YT a channel for a great dissection on paint protection on new cars. From ceramic coating to paint protection film.

You can/should polish a brand new car to remove minor defects from the factory paint job/swirls etc. you don’t want to protect an imperfect surface. The amount you polish away is very very minor. Professional detailers will measure paint thickness before doing any work.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[bigtimeweb]

paint correction

Paint correction on a new to me 06.

heavy strip wash & dry

Turtle Wax 53760 Hybrid Solutions Pro All Wheel Cleaner and Iron Remover

wash & dry

clay bar

wash & dry

Turtle Wax 53478 Hybrid Solutions Pro 1 and Done Compound Correct and Finish and an orange pad

Dr Color Chip kit to fill in the holes

Turtle Wax 53479 Hybrid Solutions Pro to The Max Wax, Graphene Liquid Wax on a black pad

WE BACK TO SHINEY!

 

[SOSHeloPilot]

Paint correction on a new to me 06.

heavy strip wash & dry

Turtle Wax 53760 Hybrid Solutions Pro All Wheel Cleaner and Iron Remover

wash & dry

clay bar

wash & dry

Turtle Wax 53478 Hybrid Solutions Pro 1 and Done Compound Correct and Finish and an orange pad

Dr Color Chip kit to fill in the holes

Turtle Wax 53479 Hybrid Solutions Pro to The Max Wax, Graphene Liquid Wax on a black pad

WE BACK TO SHINEY!

.
I do almost the same thing and I always use a pressure washer at home to knock off the big dirt first.

One of my favorite tools is my capacitor start, 2HP - shaft drive electric (20 amp) to Cat Pump pressure washer. It has the perfect power about the same as a gas 1,500 PSI+ gasser and it is quiet so I can use it in the morning without the neighbors hating me.

It was expensive, but it has worked flawlessly for over 25 years. Need dedicated 20 AMP outlet and plug or plug adapter. Oh, it is "instant on" only when I pull the trigger.

I use it for cleaning everything.

 

[Gardentech]

I've used Meguiers products for years. To me they are the best.

 

[Morsaldman]

All my underside is in pressing condition but the kdss block and cylinder is a different story.

Is it safe to spray fluid film directly onto it?

 

[AuSeeker]

All my underside is in pressing condition but the kdss block and cylinder is a different story.

Is it safe to spray fluid film directly onto it?

This what AI says...

"Applying Fluid Film to the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) block is a highly recommended practice to prevent costly corrosion and seized valves on Toyota and Lexus vehicles (e.g., 4Runner, GX, Land Cruiser). The aluminum accumulator block and steel hydraulic lines are highly susceptible to road salt and debris, making protective coatings essential. How to Apply Fluid Film to the KDSS Block Locate the Block: The KDSS valve block and accumulator assembly are located underneath the driver's side frame rail, protected by a metal skid plate. Remove the Cover: Use a 12mm socket to remove the 2 bolts securing the protective KDSS cover. Clean Thoroughly: The area inside the cover is notorious for packing full of mud, salt, and debris. Hose out the entire housing and use a mild soap or degreaser to get it completely clean. Let it dry completely. Apply the Coating: Spray the KDSS block, valves, and exposed hydraulic lines generously with Fluid Film. You can use an aerosol can with a flexible extension wand to get into all the tight, hard-to-reach crevices. Reinstall: Reattach the KDSS metal cover. It is a good idea to put some marine grease on the cover bolts before rethreading them to prevent them from seizing in the future. Best Practices & Warnings Annual Maintenance: Fluid Film will wash off over time, especially if you drive on heavily salted roads or frequently off-road. Plan to clean and reapply this coating at least once a year, typically in the fall before winter hits. Avoid Rubber Boots: Be careful not to spray the KDSS rubber dust boots or bushings with Fluid Film, as petroleum/lanolin-based sprays can cause rubber to swell or degrade slightly over time. Safe for the System: Fluid Film is non-toxic and harmless to the factory lines, making it safe for the aluminum components"