10 Car Detailing Myths You Should Stop Believing

Many drivers in Singapore have strong opinions about car care. But some of these ideas are outdated or just wrong. Believing car detailing myths can cost you money, damage your car, or give poor results. In this article, we clear up 10 common myths. You will learn what really works and what you should stop doing.

Myth 1: Dish Soap Works Like Car Shampoo

Dish soap is for plates, not paint. It removes grease well, but it also strips off wax and dries out your car’s surface. Using dish soap regularly will leave your paint unprotected and dull. Car shampoos are made with balanced pH and mild cleaners. They clean safely and keep your wax layer intact.

Myth 2: More Wax = Better Shine

Some drivers think layering wax over and over gives a better shine. But after one proper coat, extra layers do not add value. Too much wax can cause hazing or smearing. A single layer applied well will give a good gloss and proper protection. Reapply only when the old layer wears off.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Dry After a Wash

Letting water dry on the surface causes water spots. Singapore’s humid weather makes it worse. These spots can harden and leave marks on the paint. Always use a clean, soft microfiber towel to dry your car. Drying helps prevent stains and keeps the finish smooth.

Myth 4: All Scratches Can Be Fixed with Polish

Polish can remove light swirls and shallow marks. But deep scratches that cut into the clear coat need professional help. Trying to polish them out by force can make it worse. Check the depth of the scratch first. If your fingernail catches on it, it’s too deep for DIY polishing.

Myth 5: Automatic Car Washes Are Safe for All Cars

Brush-type car washes can leave swirl marks. The bristles trap dirt and drag it across your paint. Touchless car washes are safer, but they still use strong chemicals. For best care, hand washing with the two-bucket method is the safest option. It removes dirt gently and avoids damage.

Myth 6: You Should Wash Your Car Only When It Looks Dirty

Waiting for visible dirt means your car may already be exposed to damage. Bird droppings, tree sap, and road salt eat into paint quickly. Even if the car looks clean, pollution and dust sit on the surface. Washing once a week or every two weeks keeps your car in good shape.

Myth 7: Clay Bar and Polish Are the Same Thing

A clay bar removes contaminants stuck to the surface. Polish corrects the surface by removing swirls or marks. These are different steps. First, you clay the car to get a smooth finish. Then, you polish if needed. Using polish without claying first might rub dirt back into the paint.

Myth 8: You Only Need to Detail the Exterior

Interior care matters too. Dirty air vents, stained seats, and dusty dashboards can affect health and comfort. In Singapore’s climate, mould can grow fast in humid car cabins. Vacuuming, steam cleaning, and leather care are part of full detailing. A clean cabin also smells better and feels new.

Myth 9: Dark Cars Don’t Show Dirt Easily

Dark colours hide some types of dust, but they show water spots, swirl marks, and streaks more clearly. Lighter colours may show mud, but they hide fine scratches better. No colour avoids dirt. Every car needs regular care no matter its colour.

Myth 10: DIY Is Always Cheaper and Better

DIY car detailing can save money, but only if done right. Wrong tools or cheap products can scratch paint or damage coatings. Professional detailing uses the right materials, controlled methods, and trained hands. Some services, like paint correction or coating, should be left to pros.

Zaidi’s Experience at WashCar SG

“I once had a client who used kitchen soap and a worn sponge for years. His paint looked dull and had swirl marks all over. He thought he was doing a good job. We did a deep clean, clay bar, polish, and wax. The difference was clear. He told me, ‘I wish I knew this earlier.’

Many myths come from friends or forums. That’s why at WashCar SG, we always educate customers. We explain why certain tools or methods matter. It’s not just about cleaning. It’s about protecting your car.”

Final Thoughts

Car detailing myths sound helpful, but many are wrong. Believing them can harm your car and cost you more in the long run. Stick to proven methods and quality products. Use proper tools. If unsure, ask a trusted detailer.

Understanding the truth helps your car look better and last longer.

👉Check out our full detailing services here → washcar.sg/services

Let us help you care for your car the right way.