Top 10 Car Detailing and Auto Care Tips from Car Enthusiasts
Owning a collector car or a classic ride is a dream come true for many car enthusiasts. But once you have that beautiful machine in your garage, the challenge is keeping it in pristine condition, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. To uncover the best advice, we interviewed passionate car owners who have everything from vintage 1923 T-Buckets to iconic 1967 GTXs. Here are their tried-and-true tips to keep your car looking showroom-new and running smoothly.
1. Keep Animals at Bay with Mothballs
Tip: “If you store your hot rod or muscle car in the garage, spread out mothballs to keep animals away. They love eating wiring.”
— Steve Harris
Mothballs can help deter rodents and other animals from nesting in your car, especially in winter when they’re seeking warmth. Placing a few around the car (but not directly on it) can prevent these critters from chewing on wiring or other critical components.
2. Maintain a Dry Storage Environment
Tip: “In storage, keep it dry. I use a fan to circulate air under and around my cars. I don’t cover my cars in storage, but I wax and polish them when out.”
— Andy Snell
Humidity can lead to rust and mold growth, so ensure that your car storage area has good airflow. Using a fan or dehumidifier can help, particularly if you live in a humid area.
3. Practice Battery Maintenance Regularly
Tip: “I keep the battery maintenance up by keeping it dry and clean. During off months, I use proper fuel storage like STA-BIL 360 Performance to keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months.”
— Waye Looney
If your car is stored for extended periods, battery maintenance is crucial. Investing in a quality fuel stabilizer and charging the battery occasionally can prevent issues when you’re ready to drive again.
4. Stick to a Good Washing and Waxing Routine
Tip: “I recommend washing with quality car wash, using a chamois to dry, and waxing regularly. At shows, use a quality duster, then spray wax and wipe with a microfiber cloth.”
— Thomas Riley Sr.
Regular washing and waxing aren’t just for appearance—they help protect your car’s paint from the elements. A soft chamois or microfiber cloth is perfect for drying without scratching the surface.
5. Embrace the Joy of Maintenance and Pass it On
Tip: “Learn the joy of maintaining and modifying your ride, and pass that knowledge to your kids!”
— Ron Anderson
Car maintenance can be a family affair. Teaching younger generations to care for a vehicle fosters a sense of pride and respect for automobiles, helping keep the art of car care alive.
6. Drive it Often
Tip: “Don’t be afraid to drive it. Too many cars deteriorate if you don’t drive or race them.”
— Jeff Kraenzl
Cars are meant to be driven. Letting your car sit idle for too long can lead to mechanical issues. A regular drive ensures parts stay lubricated and helps keep seals from drying out.
7. Keep it Clean—Constantly
Tip: “Keep it clean—constantly! I never wash any of my cool rides with a hose. I use a quality speed detailer for a showroom shine.”
— Dave Guttman
Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can damage paint and metal over time. Using a quality speed detailer between washes can keep your car looking as if it just rolled off the showroom floor.
8. Use Fuel Stabilizers and Turn it Over Regularly in Storage
Tip: “When storing, fill the tank, add STA-BIL, push on the brakes a few times, and crank the engine every 5-6 weeks. When driving, watch for bad drivers!”
— Joe Barra
Regularly turning over your engine, even in storage, helps prevent internal parts from seizing up. STA-BIL fuel stabilizer ensures the fuel stays fresh, and moving brake components can prevent sticking.
9. Avoid Battery Drain with a Kill Switch
Tip: “I have a battery kill switch to avoid battery drain. If parked for long periods, use a cover to keep the dust off.”
— Mikey Jones
A battery kill switch can save your battery from unnecessary drain when the car isn’t in use. This simple addition is a lifesaver if your car will be sitting for an extended period.
10. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Professional Help
Tip: “The best advice I can give is to take it to a professional or find one that comes to you. Wax is your friend.”
— Tyler Lofdahl
Sometimes it’s worth getting a professional detailer’s help. They have the tools and expertise to get the best finish possible, and regular detailing is a great investment in your car’s longevity.
Owning a collector or classic car is as much about passion as it is about maintenance. These tips from real car owners show that a proactive approach to car care can make all the difference in maintaining value, appearance, and functionality over time. If you have any additional car care tips of your own, share them with us in the comments! And remember, maintaining your dream car isn’t just a task—it’s part of the joy of ownership.
