How often should I wash my car?
I recently purchased a new car. I was told I will never have to wax it again. Is this true?
How often should I have my car detailed?
I wash my car in the driveway all summer. It is relaxing but I have noticed my finish is losing its shine. What can I do?
How often should I wash the undercarriage of my car?
How do you differ from the "touchless" car washes that I see everywhere?
I wash my car in the driveway all summer. I find it relaxing but I notice my vehicle is losing its shine. Help me!

Q. How often should I wash my car?

A. Everyone has different driving habits. Every two weeks is suggested. Acid rain, bird droppings, insects, egg, etc. should be washed off immediately. When you remove snow and ice off of your vehicle, you will be dragging the dirt and grit that has accumulated with it so it is also suggested to wash before a snowstorm. Keeping your investment looking great for many years to come. And of course you'll always look and feel good driving a clean car.

Q. I recently purchased a new car. I was told I will never have to wax it again. Is this true?

A. No, there is no such thing as a "no wax" vehicle finish. There are paint sealant available at dealerships today that help prolong the life of your clear coat. Your clear coat is a thin clear layer which is sprayed on your vehicle after the color is applied during the paint process. This coat must be kept clean and continually protected. To endure a long lasting brilliant finish, wash regularly and have a polymer sealant applied or have your vehicle professionally detailed with us every six months. We will be happy to evaluate your vehicles finish and offer recommendations to help you take care of your clear coat.

Q. How often should I have my vehicle detailed?

A. Depending on the age and condition, we recommend no less than twice a year. It's good to get it done after the winters salt and sand season and then again before winter. If you are selling, trading in, or returning a leased vehicle, we recommend our V.I.P. or Deluxe package. First impressions and vehicle cleanliness is important to any prospective buyer. Having us detail your vehicle will help you maintain it and get top dollar when it is time to trade or sell.

Q. I removed some pine pitch with a scrub pad. Will the scratches on the hood come out?

A. Depending on how damaged the area is, we may be able to buff it out. You can safely remove pitch with household rubbing alcohol and a soft towel. If the pitch is left on too long, it will actually raise and discolor your clear coat. Needless to say, it should be removed as soon as possible.

Q. How often should I wash the undercarriage of my vehicle?

A. During the winter months when there is salt and sand on the roads, it should be done every time you wash your car. Every month during the rest of the year is sufficient.

Q. How do you differ from the "touchless" car washes that I see everywhere?

A. Visit the Tri-City Advantage on this site. Touchless may work for some, but the fact is, it still does not clean the vehicle. In the past 45 years these unattended systems have improved but they still rely on stronger cleaning solutions and high pressure water. They must be monitored closely to prevent alkaline burn on unprotected paint. It has also been known to discolor many plastic and rubber parts on many vehicles today. High pressure water nozzles can drive dirt particles against the vehicles finish before falling to the floor. Yes it is touchles, but it is like washing your hands with soap without rubbing them together. You may feel better thinking they are clean, but if you do not use some friction by rubbing them, your hands really do not come clean. Also, the automated tellers at these car washes cannot answer questions or concerns that you may have. Have you ever seen one smile?

Q. I wash my car in the driveway all summer. I find it relaxing but I notice my vehicle is losing its shine. Help me!

A. Many think this is the way to go. If you are not careful, it is the worst choice. Sponge, soap, and bucket can damage and dull a vehicles clear coat faster than any other wash system. Inadequate detergent and water application with a dirt embedded sponge can reduce a clear coats thickness quickly. A home was takes an average of 30-45 minutes and uses 3-4 times more water than a professional car wash. During winter, home washing is not an option. This is when you must worry the most about sand and salt on your car. Another drawback of home washing is the cleaning solutions and dirty water washes into storm drains or into top soil along the edge of the road. Eventually these will find themselves back into our rivers and streams. Professional car washes are required by local and state laws to send waste water to treatment facilities. Our water and dirt solids are tested annually for proper disposal. To answer your question though, it may be time for a 3-step mirror glaze done to your vehicle. If it's not already too late.