By Kathy Sena

Got a question about your vehicle? Let an expert at Ford answer it. Product engineer Laurie Hunt shares her wisdom on keeping that new-car shine for years to come.

Your vehicle’s paint job should be your top priority. Though it’s durable, “be kind to it by using Motorcraft^® Detail Wash or a mild soap solution with a neutral pH, which helps remove the dirt without stripping,” says Laurie Hunt, a product engineer at Ford. Use a clean, soft cloth so you don’t scratch the paint.

If you’re running your vehicle through a car wash, choose one that uses strips of soft cloth during the wash cycle, not rolling brushes. When waxing your vehicle, apply a name-brand, high-quality wax and “use it on the paint only,” Hunt says. “Low-gloss panels on your vehicle shouldn’t be waxed. All they need is washing.”

For wheel and tire care, apply Motorcraft^® Wheel & Tire Cleaner. “It has been proven safe,” Hunt says. “Some products used on tires at commercial car washes aren’t appropriate for these materials,” she adds, so you may want to clean your tires at home. Finally, don’t let spills or droppings linger on your car’s exterior. Clean them off right away so they don’t damage the paint.