The Ultimate New Car Care Checklist (First 30 Days)
The first 30 days with a brand-new car set the tone for how well it will look years down the road. From washing and protection to interior care, here’s the step-by-step checklist every new owner should follow.
- Dealer washes don’t count—reset your paint with a proper wash ASAP.
- Apply protection immediately to avoid early damage from UV, salt, or fallout.
- Start a simple wash-and-seal routine early to make future care easier.
- Don’t forget wheels, glass, and interior—your whole car needs attention.
Don’t guess—grab the essentials. The Beginner Detailing Kit is the perfect first step for every new car owner.
Day 1–3: Reset the dealer prep
- First wash: Use The Super Soaper to strip fillers and transport grime.
- Dry safely: Prevent scratches with the Massive Drying Towel.
- Inspect paint: Look for swirls, spots, or transport film that need correction.
Day 4–10: Apply protection
Don’t wait—seal your paint, glass, and trim. Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray makes your car slick, shiny, and easier to wash. If you want multi-year protection, step up to The Gloss Boss.
One bottle of Tough As Shell protects your entire car—paint, trim, wheels, even glass. Reapply every few months for lasting defense.
Day 11–20: Protect wheels & tires
Brake dust builds fast. Use Pure Magic Cleaner to deep clean wheels and tires, then coat them with All Dressed Up for a clean, matte look that resists grime.
Day 21–30: Interior protection
Sunscreen, sweat, and dirt attack interiors quickly. Complete Cabin Cleaner keeps dashboards, leather, and plastics OEM fresh with no shine.
Start right: The Super Soaper + Tough As Shell + Pure Magic Cleaner + All Dressed Up + Complete Cabin Cleaner. One month in, your car will look better than showroom-new.
Pro tips for the first 30 days
- Wash weekly to prevent buildup.
- Reapply ceramic spray every 6–8 weeks.
- Keep a microfiber towel in the trunk for quick wipe-downs.
- Don’t skip the interior—UV and grime damage surfaces quickly.
Related reading
- How to Wash & Protect a Brand-New Car
- How to Build the Ultimate Beginner Detailing Kit
- How to Protect a New Car During Its First Winter
New Car Checklist FAQ
Do I really need to wash a brand-new car?
Yes. Dealer washes don’t protect paint and often leave swirl marks.
What’s the first protection I should apply?
A ceramic spray like Tough As Shell—it’s fast, effective, and DIY friendly.
How often should I wash in the first month?
Weekly washes are best, especially in winter or if parked outside.
What about waxing instead?
Wax doesn’t last long. Ceramic sprays are easier and more durable.
Can I do all of this at home?
Absolutely. Every step can be done in your driveway with minimal tools.
The first month is everything. Wash with The Super Soaper, seal with Tough As Shell, and keep the interior OEM fresh with Complete Cabin Cleaner.
