You spend hours washing your car, waxing the paint, and shining the rims—but what about those exhaust tips? Neglect them, and they’ll collect layers of soot, grime, and rust, making your ride look unfinished. Don’t let dirty exhaust tips ruin your car’s shine! Follow this step-by-step guide to cleaning your car’s exhaust tips and keep your vehicle looking fresh on LA streets.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, grab these supplies:
Microfiber towels – Soft and non-abrasive
Steel wool (#0000 fine-grade) – Helps remove tough carbon buildup
All-purpose cleaner or degreaser – Breaks down grease and grime
Metal polish (e.g., Mothers or Meguiar’s) – Restores shine
Rubber gloves – Protects your hands from chemicals
A bucket of warm water – Helps with rinsing
Step 1: Rinse Off Loose Dirt
Start by rinsing the exhaust tips with water to remove loose dust and dirt. If possible, use a pressure washer or strong hose spray to knock off surface grime.
Step 2: Apply an All-Purpose Cleaner
Spray an all-purpose cleaner or degreaser generously onto the exhaust tips. Let it sit for about 2-3 minutes to break down the built-up gunk.
Step 3: Scrub with Fine-Grade Steel Wool
For tougher soot and carbon deposits, use #0000 fine-grade steel wool to gently scrub the surface. This helps remove oxidation and restores the metal’s shine without scratching.
Pro Tip: Always scrub in a circular motion for the best results!
Step 4: Wipe and Inspect
Use a microfiber towel to wipe off the loosened grime. If the tips still look dirty, repeat steps 2 and 3 until you’re satisfied with the results.
Step 5: Apply Metal Polish
Now for the finishing touch! Apply a small amount of metal polish onto a clean microfiber towel and rub it into the exhaust tips. This will restore shine and add a protective layer to keep them cleaner for longer.
Step 6: Buff to a Mirror Finish
Grab a fresh microfiber towel and buff out the metal polish. You should see a glossy, mirror-like finish—just like your rims!
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your exhaust tips isn’t just about looks; it prevents corrosion and keeps your ride in top shape. If you want that showroom-level shine in Los Angeles, this simple cleaning routine will do the trick!
Too much work? Bring your car to WASH&WHIPS, and we’ll handle the dirty work for you. Contact us today for professional detailing services in LA!
