Proper washing, waxing will add value to your auto

Did you know that more than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products when washing their cars? And almost half of motorists never wax their vehicles.

That's leaving money on the table at trade-in time, as a clean, well-maintained car can be worth up to 50 percent more than one in "fair" condition, according to the Kelley Blue Book.

Follow Greg Biffle's lead: wash and wax regularly.

Indeed, washing an automobile on a regular basis protects it from the natural elements that harm the finish. Check out the following do's and don'ts when it comes to a do-it-yourself car wash:

• Don't wash cars in direct sunlight. Do wash cars in shade or in cooler temperatures in the early morning or late afternoon.

• Don't use dish detergent. Do use a professional car wash.

• Do fill your bucket with warm water.

• Do use a soft terrycloth towel or washing mitt.

• Do spray the car often with water.

• Don't scrub the car all at once. Do complete one section at a time, rinsing repeatedly to prevent the soap from drying on the paint.

• Do use soft terrycloth towels or scratch-free fabric to dry the vehicle.

• Don't neglect waxing the vehicle. Do prep the car for waxing using cleaner/polish to remove contaminants.

Vehicles today are probably the second-highest investment a person will make, next to their home. With so much invested it makes good sense to properly take care of that investment. By keeping the vehicle looking good, and running good, it will increase it's re-sell value when that time comes. Maintaining a vehicle properly will pay off in the long run.

Visit www.3MCarCare.com to learn more about vehicle exterior maintenance.

More Car Care
• NASCAR Performance | NASCAR Angels