What are the best ways to maintain a shiny car?
Quick answer: Protect the paint with a quality coating (e.g., a ceramic coating) to lock in and boost gloss, then minimise wash-induced scratches: the coating helps you wash less often and more easily, and good washing technique prevents the wash marks that dull paint over time.
The best way to maintain the shine on your car is to treat it with a quality coating, such as a ceramic coating. This will not only seal in the shine, it will help improve it.
The one thing that which will degrade the shine on your car is washing and the wash marks it creates. Having a ceramic coating means your car stays cleaner for longer, so you will have to wash it less. When you do wash it, washing will be far easier because the dirt just falls off, so you are far less likely to introduce scratches which dull your paint.
With that said, as it's washing that degrades your car's finish, it makes sense to learn a washing technique which minimises scratches.
Keeping your car looking spectacular isn’t just about what you do once — it’s about what you do every time. A few smart habits, combined with good protection, will mean your paintwork stays glossy, scratch-free, and always turning heads.
1. Apply a quality seal or coating. A high-grade ceramic coating or similar sealant doesn’t only boost shine, it acts like a shield. It helps repel dirt, water spots, tree sap and pollutants, so grime doesn’t cling and dull the finish. Once applied, your car stays cleaner for longer. The coating also makes washing much gentler, since the dirt will tend to slide off rather than get scrubbed in.
2. Master your wash technique. Wash marks and fine scratches are some of the sneaky ways gloss gets lost. Always use two buckets (one for soapy water, one for rinse), a soft mitt, and avoid direct sunlight while washing. Rinse off loose dirt first to reduce abrasion. Dry thoroughly with a soft microfiber towel to avoid water spots. This is called the Two Bucket Method, there are lots of videos on Youtube showing this professional method of cleaning a car.
5. Proper storage and protection from the elements. When possible, keep your car under cover. UV rays, acid rain, and harsh weather degrade shine fast. Wax or booster sprays can help maintain gloss between major treatments.
With those practices — the right protective coating + careful washing + regular light upkeep + shelter when possible — your car will stay glossy, vibrant and feeling like new. It's about consistency more than effort. The result? A finish that looks great today, tomorrow, and for as long as you own it.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 19/09/2025 15:23