coooolwhip

Hi, I'm sure the side mirrors can be pushed in and out since I did it while test driving the TSX at the dealership.

I don't seem to be able to do it on my 2011 TSX. Does the car have to be started first or something? I'm afraid to put anymore pressure on it and break it. I felt I pushed it in really hard.

Also what brand of car wash soap do you guys use?

Thanks guys.

MCDavis

First off...you actually take your car through a mechanical wash? I feel sorry for your paint.

As for washing at home. I use a synthetic cloth mit, a clean bucket (I wipe it clean before filling), and I've had good luck with the Mother's car wash as of late. But there are other products out there that work as well if not better.

Might want to check out the guys at AutoGeek. They have some good resources for tips on washing, waxing, etc. As well as the products.
http://www.autogeek.net/

pinatubo

For folding side mirror, slightly (lightly) lift it up, just a bit, then turn.

tvac

I like to use a touchless wash (or power wash) first, then go at it by hand with a sponge using any good quality car wash (Mequiars). Follow that up with some spray carnuba. I believe you have to get the dirt off first with a pressure wash before hand washing it or else you end up grinding the dirt into the paint with your sponge.

coooolwhip

I don't use the car wash, at least I won't with my new TSX. That's why I was hoping you can recommend a good car soap. Thanks, I'll check out mother's car wash. That and the turtle brand seem like popular choices on amazon.
Sorry I'm a total newbie when it comes to cars, I know I'm asking really simple questions.

MCDavis

No worries. Better to ask first as opposed to asking once your car is covered in nasty swirl marks and scratches that are a beeotch to remove (buffing compounds, etc).

But seriously...take a good read through the AutoGeek site. They have immense levels of detail on car wash tips, products, etc. It's definitely worth the 20 minutes or so to gain some basic knowledge.
Try this link:
http://www.autogeek.net/detailingtips.html

TSXy Luster

I just like to be lazy and pay a bunch of nondescript raced people to do it for me :p

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

MCDavis

For me, there is personal pride in taking a few hours a month to completely detail a vehicle from roof to rubber. I even detail the truck this way, and that's A LOT of sheetmetal.
Spending north of $75-100 to get someone to do what I can do in about 2 hours on a weekend seems tard-re.
Just my

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

^2 hours!?

a full detail takes me HOURS! north of 12.
but I do wash my car every weekend, which takes about 20-30 mins.
then every 6 months or so re-apply sealant.

MCDavis

BTW, I say this as a guy with a stars and bars buckle...well said!

MCDavis

Grab a red bull and put yer wings on. You're moving too slow son.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

^or maybe I'm doing a better job than you!

MCDavis

Ha! Likely. I also do it in phases. Wash and heavy wax one week. Interior the next. Keeps it "mostly clean" pretty much all the time that way, instead of really clean to really dirty and back again.

TSXy Luster

I just don't know how to detail a car and just don't have the time right now to learn how, sadly. I mean I would like to sometime in the future but I can't put off getting my car cleaned because I don't know how to do it right.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

^i read the article that Mcdavis posted.
I also read the article from excel detail.

in those short 20 mins, i learned how to wash a car properly.

TSXy Luster

cool. but I still don't have spare time to wash my car. I'd rather just drop it off to get it done by "professionals" while I continue working.

It's nice that the dealership gives free car washes.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

^cool, but you can learn by reading.

if you dont have the time to wash, you dont have the time.

007Acura

I use Turtle Ice car wash. It leaves a nice shine and it supposed to be gentle on the paint and leave no water spots.

You can get it at target

Also the side mirrors do fold, mine go both ways I dont know if the tsx does that. Euro models have optional power folding

s40 driver

I'd rather pay the $75-100 if I am truly getting a great wash/wax and internal cleaning...I'd even provide all the materials. That is a phenomenal deal for a quality job. To that end, look me up if you are ever detailing cars here in Norfolk/Virginia Beach