Steps to Protecting Your Jeep

From the Harsh Elements

As Spring rolls in, it's time to prepare your Jeep for the adventures that lie ahead in the warmer months. Contrary to popular belief that a Jeep should always be dirty, it's essential understand the importance of keeping your Jeep clean. Getting your Jeep dirty is part of the fun, but regular cleaning is crucial to protect the body to ensure it lasts for many years.

A clean Jeep not only looks great but also stays in good condition, ready to tackle whatever the road or trail throws at it.

Jeep Wax collage

Step 1: Washing Off Winter's Residue

I kick-started the cleaning process by gathering my supplies: a bucket, garden hose, soap, and a handmit. It was time to wash away the winter's grime, including mud, sand, and salt. It's important to choose a soap specifically designed for vehicles to avoid damaging the Jeep's paint. Household soaps like Dawn, while effective at removing wax, can be too harsh on your vehicle's finish. I carefully avoided using regular soap on my soft top, opting for specialized Bestop products instead.

More Soft Top Cleaning Tips 

Mother's Wax kit

Step 2: Drying and Clay Bar Application

After thoroughly washing the Jeep, I dried it off with a microfiber towel. This time, I decided to try using a clay bar for the first time to remove microscopic debris from the paint that regular washing misses, such as paint overspray and brake dust. The Mothers California Gold Clay Bar Paint Saving Kit proved simple and easy to use. I molded the clay in my hand, sprayed a section of the Jeep, and then glided the clay bar over it until it moved smoothly. This process was repeated over the entire Jeep, excluding the soft top and parts made of plastic or rubber.

Mother's Clay Bar Kit 

Simple & Easy to Use

Finding rust on your Jeep can be disheartening. One of the most common places is on aftermarket parts and the undercarriage. Check out my post on Steps for Rust Removal.

If the clay gets too dirty fold over the clay and re-mold.

Step 3: Waxing for Protection and Shine

Cleaning wax off Jeep

The final step involved waxing the Jeep using Mothers California Gold, Brazilian Carnauba Cleaner Wax. Applying the wax with a damp cloth in swirling motions and allowing it to dry to a haze before wiping it off ensures a protective and glossy finish. This step not only enhances the Jeep's appearance but also shields it against harsh elements like road salt.

Ready for Adventure

With the washing, clay bar treatment, and waxing complete, the Jeep is now ready for springtime and summertime fun. Whether it's a topless ride or a day on the trails, the Jeep stands protected against the elements, looking great and prepared for any adventure.

By regularly cleaning and maintaining your Jeep, you ensure it remains in top condition, ready to get dirty all over again in the spirit of adventure.

Jeep all shiny

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