Why Your Car Still Looks Streaky After Cleaning (And How to Fix It)

You just cleaned your car—inside or out—and it still looks streaky, patchy, or greasy. Frustrating, right?

Whether it’s the paint, windows, or dashboard, here’s what causes those streaks and how to eliminate them for good.

1. You’re Using the Wrong Towels

Cheap or dirty towels are one of the biggest causes of streaks—especially on glass, glossy trim, and paint. Instead, use clean, quality microfiber like the Everyday Microfiber Towels from Jimbo’s.

Want a breakdown of how to properly dry your car? Read: How to Wash Your Car Without Scratching It.

2. You’re Using Too Much Product

Spraying too much cleaner—especially on glass or touchscreens—makes it hard to buff off fully. Use 1–2 light sprays per panel. If you're cleaning your interior, always spray onto the towel first, not the surface.

Want a full walk-through on interior cleaning? Don’t miss: The Ultimate Interior Car Cleaning Guide.

3. Your Cleaner Isn’t Streak-Free

Some all-purpose cleaners leave a greasy or uneven finish on plastics and glass. That’s why we built Complete Cabin Cleaner — a streak-free, matte-finish interior detailer that’s safe on plastic, vinyl, leather, and glass.

4. You Didn’t Finish With Protection

If your exterior looks patchy or hazy after washing, it could be unprotected paint or uneven drying. Applying a ceramic spray like Tough As Shell helps level out the finish and prevent streaks during drying.

More on that here: How to Apply a Ceramic Spray Coating.

5. You’re Cleaning in the Sun or On a Hot Surface

Heat causes products to flash too fast, which leaves behind streaks and smears. Always clean and dry your car in the shade or early morning for a better result.

How to Fix Streaks (Interior or Exterior)

1. Use clean microfiber only (no rags or paper towels)
2. Spray product onto the towel, not the surface
3. Use the right product for the right surface
4. Work in the shade and small sections
5. Buff with a second towel to level and dry

Conclusion

Streaks don’t mean you did a bad job—they just mean your process needs a small adjustment. With the right products, towels, and timing, your car will look streak-free every time—inside and out.

🧼 Streak-Free Detailing Essentials:

• Complete Cabin Cleaner – Streak-Free Interior Cleaner
• Everyday Microfiber Towels – Safe for All Surfaces
• Tough As Shell – Ceramic Spray Coating

Clean smarter. Buff properly. Say goodbye to streaks for good.