We have attended a workshop on car care organised by the Automotive Club EUROCONTROL in cooperation with Carimage Detailing and WASCO, two leading specialists who joined forces and are operating in the outskirt of Brussels.

Many times we have highlighted the importance of a proper care of the car, especially in winter times, when salt and dirt will eventually take a toll.

The workshop consistend of three main topics:

1. Washing Techniques
• Objective: Show effective methods for cleaning and decontaminating vehicles safely.
• Steps:
• Pre-Wash: Apply foam to loosen dirt, followed by a pressure rinse.
• Wheels & Tires: Clean with wheel and tire-specific tools and cleaners to remove grime and brake dust.
• Engine Bay: Use all-purpose cleaner (APC) and cover sensitive areas to avoid damage.
• Decontamination: Remove iron particles and tar with specific sprays, ensuring a contaminant-free surface.
• Hand Wash: Use the two-bucket method to prevent scratches and swirls.
• Demi Water Rinse & Drying: Rinse with demi-water to prevent spots, and dry with microfiber towels and air blowers for a flawless finish.
2. Paint Correction Process
• Objective: Demonstrate methods for removing imperfections and restoring surface finish.
• Steps:
• Assessment: Check paint thickness for safe correction limits.
• Machine Polishing:
• Use a rotary polisher for aggressive corrections and a dual-action (DA) polisher for finer work.
• Pads & Compounds: Choose pads and polishes according to correction needs (cutting, polishing, finishing).
• Correction Stages:
• Step 1: Heavy defect removal with a rotary polisher.
• Step 2: Refining with a DA polisher.
• Step 3: Final finishing for gloss enhancement.
• Advanced Techniques:
• Sanding: Use wet-sanding for deep scratches.
• Heat Application: Apply heat for minor corrections and polish immediately
3. Surface Protection Products
• Objective: Show options for protecting the vehicle’s surface post-correction.
• Types of Protection:
• Wax: Natural wax for gloss, lasting up to 12 months.
• Ceramic Coating: Long-term protection with superior gloss and hydrophobicity, lasting up to 5 years.
• Detail Spray: Quick and easy hydrophobic spray for touch-ups and maintenance, lasting several weeks.

The workshop was a privileged opportunity to encourage the club members to hands-on practice with guidance from confirmed experts. An experience to repeat!