Keeping That “New Car” Feeling Alive

Callum Foster

There’s nothing quite like that new car feeling. Glossy paint, spotless wheels, and a fresh interior make every drive feel special. The challenge, of course, is keeping that look and feel long after the day you pick it up.

The good news? With a few simple habits, you can keep your car looking sharp week after week, preserve its value, and maintain that sense of pride every time you walk up to it.

1. Quick Rinses Make a Big Difference

You don’t need to spend hours on a full wash every week. Even a five-minute rinse with a hose helps remove dirt, road salt, and contaminants before they have the chance to bond to your paintwork. This is especially important in winter, when salt can cause long term damage if left sitting on your car.

Think of rinsing as preventative care: a small effort now saves you from much bigger issues later.

2. Keep Microfibres Handy

A simple microfibre cloth in the boot is one of the best tools for keeping your car fresh between washes. Light dust, fingerprints, or the occasional mark can be wiped away safely without scratching the surface.

Pro Tip: Bird Droppings

Bird droppings are acidic and can permanently etch into paint if left too long. To handle them safely:

  • Keep a bottle of Gtechniq Quick Detailer and a clean microfibre in your car.
  • Spray lightly onto the affected area.
  • Gently lift the contamination away, turning the cloth to a clean side for the final wipe.

This softens and neutralises the mess before it can do any real damage.

3. Avoid Automatic or Drive Through Car Washes

It’s tempting to go for a quick drive through wash, but the harsh brushes and sponges are one of the fastest ways to add swirls and scratches to your paintwork.

On top of that, the chemicals used are usually very aggressive. They’re designed for speed, not care, which means they strip away and start breaking down ceramic coatings over time.

A safe hand wash will always be better for your car’s finish.

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