A Guide to Instantly Become a Better Detailer

Last Updated May 28, 2026

When you’ve got a detailing problem and you need to know what product to use, it usually takes some fishing. Until now, there have been no instant “here’s your problem, here’s your product” resources for exterior detailing on the web, so finding this information meant time consuming research, online shopping, and maybe even watching how-to videos on YouTube. That ends now. Here’s a list of the most common detailing problems and the products you’ll need to clean them right up…

Problem	Solution
Dirty Wheels	Wheel Cleaner, Wheel Sealant
Heavy Brake Dust	Intensive Brake Dust Remover, Wheel Sealant
Faded Tire Walls	Tire Conditioner
Faded/Cracked Trim	Plastic Sealant
Dirty/Smudged Windows	Glass Cleaner, Glass Sealant
Dry Paint	Paint Cleaner, Coating
Swirl Marks	Clay Bar & Spray, Leveling Compound, Orbital Buffer
Light Scratches	Gentle Polish, Finishing Glaze, Coating
Door Handle Scratches	Gentle Polish, Coating
Rough, Bumpy Paint	Clay Bar & Spray, Polish, Coating
Fresh Bird Droppings	Detail Spray
Paint Etching (Birds, Sap, etc.)	See “Light Scratches” – if necessary see “Swirl Marks”
Dirty Car	Car Wash Soap – see “Dry Paint” for added luster
Stained Clear Coat (Paint or Wheels)	See “Light Scratches” – if necessary see “Swirl Marks”
Dirty or Scuffed Chrome	Metal Coat
Bug Remains	Insect Remover, Bug Protectant

Use this go-to guide when shopping for car care products, and always double check it before detailing your car. Make sure you’ve got the right products before you begin the how-to search, and happy detailing! Keep an eye out for Part II where we’ll cover Interior Detailing Products!