Got a new SUV - what to do next?

[justG0]

I just got a new 2007 Acura MDX. It is Nimbus Gray with Ebony leather inside. I love it's look right now and would like to keep it that way.

I am new to detailing. So far I have read lot of information on this site and around the web on various car maintenance topics and am totally confused now. Also most of information assumes that the car is older.

I would appreciate if someone can tell me what I need to do to keep my car looking like new - any tips on products, steps that I need to follow, etc. would be very helpful.

Thx.

[imacarnut]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

http://meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7304

[gb387]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

In addition to the post above here is a good one to look over, this is for new and old vehicles:
Meguiar's 5-Step Paint Care Cycle

What are the differences between Meguiar's waxes?

Do you just want to apply a coat of wax? or would you rather do a full detail, cleaner polish and wax? Do you have any products in your collection now?

[Whelan]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

Based on the title of the post, I would say, go buy some gas, lol. But you have a very nice car there, good luck with it.

[justG0]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

No, I don't have any products. For my other cars, I have been taking them to automatic car washes, and well, I don't like their look any more. So for this one I am planning to put in a little bit more effort - at least till I have the new car craze

I was looking to get a paint sealant applied on the outside and then hand wash it once a month or so. Is the NXT tech wax a paint sealant or close to it? How long will it last assuming that car is garaged when not in use and it gets a hand wash at least once a month or more if needed? I may also do a quick detail in between or spray wax after a wash, but I usually don't have a lot of time...

BTW, the car came with a full tank of gas, so I am all set there (for a few days at least).

[Whelan]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

If your talking about the sealants they sell at dealerships, skip. Im pretty sure Acura still uses Simoniz System 5. It is essentially a wax with T-e-f-l-o-n (for some reason it originally blanked that word) in it, same as most tech waxes today and just puts a slick barrier that only lasts a certain amount of time. Not worth the $500 plus the dealers charge.

I used to work for Acura sales.

[justG0]

Re: Got a new SUV - what to do next?

No, I pretty much stayed away from any delear supplied protectants, accessories, etc. I am basically looking at either some do it yourself products (like Meguiar's) or go to a detail shop and have them apply one.

For the do it yourself opton, I want to know what is a good option that I can apply let's say every 6 - 12 months or so and protect the paint. Something that is easy to do, may not provide the best finish, but is still good. If 5 is the best, I would be happy with 3 or 4 as long as I don't need to spend a lot of time.

The detail shop option will cost me around $150 - $200, which I will need to do every year (that's what I am being told).