Is my routine ok?

[krayzie]

Hi Guys,

im semi new to washing my car at the moment my process is

1. Wash with NXT Generation carwash- 2 bucket method
2. Clay - with quik clay system
3. Wax - NXT next generation wax

i usually do this routine every 2-3 months in winter and about once a month in summer

and here is generally what it looks like (sorry about the lights)



my question is, is my routine ok? and is there anything i can be doing between those steps to improve the look?

also how do you know the NXT wax is dry? i usually wait half an hour and then buff?

[ffboy]

Re: Is my routine ok?

The car looks ok, looks well cared for. Unless there are some swirls and other stuff on the paint that can't be seen right now, your regular routine seems OK. To know if the NXT 2.0 is dry, do the swipe test. If the wax streaks upon swiping the wax, it's not yet ready for removal. If upon swiping your wax and you're left with a clear, shiny paint, it's ready. Drying time will depend on many things.. Humidity and temperature will affect the drying time. Half and hour is usually ok for the NXT 2.0, if it's humid it can take a bit longer, if the weather is ideal it can be a lot less.

As for improving the looks within your set routine, you can apply a pure polish (M07 or deep crystal) or Polish with mikd cleaners (ultimate polish) before waxing. Your car's paint seems to be on the darker side, polish can add even more depth and wetness to whatever look you're after. It is optional, benefits may not be as huge as it is on real dark colored cars, give it a shot but do a small area first and evaluate if the difference is big enough for you to take that extra polishing step.

And of course, regular maintenance (UQD/UQW, or Gold Class Instant detailer?GC Spray Wax) will help to keep the protection and shine longer

Well, from my experience, M07 on dark paint is reallly incredible. I've used it also on silver, while it may not have added much depth, there is an improvement in the paint's clarity. Flakes are more pronounced.

[Murr1525]

Re: Is my routine ok?

Yeah, if no defects it is pretty simple to detail.

Usually, the two options that cover all the steps would look like:

1. Wash
2. Clay if needed
3. Clean/Polish - Ult. Polish
4. Wax
5. Wax

1. Wash
2. Clay if needed
3. ColorX or Cleaner/Wax
4. Wax

And then as mentioned something like the Ult. Quick Wax for after future washes, or while drying.