I just picked up a 2011 G37S Sedan in Blue State/Graphite about 12 days ago and have already given it a wash, though I probably didn't use the best methods. Anyway, I'm really hoping to keep the car looking new for years to come. I went over to Detailed Image to see what type of products they have, and they have a "New Car Care Advanced Kit" DI Packages New Car Care Advanced Kit | Detailed Image

It's quite pricey but do you guys recommend purchasing it or are most of the items unnecessary and overkill? I'm also not too sure I want to nor do I have the time to spend 12 hours detailing my car. Should I just take it to someone and get it professionally done? Is there actually any detail work that should be done on a new car?

Thanks for any and all input.

 

Definitely think most of the products in that package is unnecessary. Here's what I have:

1. Three wash mits. Two that I use for the car, one dirty one that I use on the wheels.
2. Two buckets w/ two grit guards.
3. Any good car soap will do. I use Megs Gold Class.
4. Wheel brush (Amazon.com: EZ Detail Brush: Automotive). Worth every penny. And a tire brush.
5. Wheel cleaner. I use Griotts Garage all purpose wheel cleaner.
6. To dry the car after washing I use the Absorber. Google it, it's a great product and have never caused swirls.
7. You'll also need a number of good quality microfiber cloths.
8. Your choice of a wax. I haven't found a favorite yet, still trying out a few different ones. Right now I'm using Megs NXT.
9. You'll also need a quick detailer for in between washes/waxes.
10. For interior I use 303 Aerospace. Amazing product.
11. Leather, I use Lexol leather conditioner.
12. Vacuum.

I probably missed a few items here and there. If you take care of the car and get into a habit of washing it regularly, you should only have to detail it once a year or so. There's a great thread where the OP goes into alot of detail into the art of detailing so I highly recommend you give that a read.

 

Thank you for checking out Detailed Image - Premium Auto Detailing and Car Care Products and congratulations on the new vehicle, I'd be happy to provide some recommendations to you. Caring for the vehicle right away will make future cleanings easier while the vehicle is looking great year round. The kit you referenced is a great package if you want to get everything you need for new car care and there are some big savings with that kit. If you want to get a few less items listed below are some of the most essential items in my opinion.

Exterior Protection
Wash - Most swirls come from the washing and drying process so make sure you use good technique (see our detailing guide) and use quality products. If you need to upgrade all of your materials check out these three package deals:
DI Packages Foamaster II Advanced Kit
DI Packages Washing and Drying Advanced Kit
DI Packages Washing and Drying Starter Package

Clay - Is a great way to deep clean the paint and even most new vehicles can benefit from it. It's not a must have step but it certainly helps. If interested check out the directions in the Detailing Guide, but it's actually pretty easy. If interested check out this kit: DI Packages DI Gentle Fine Grade Clay Bar 100g & Clay Lube

Seal - Protecting the exterior right away will preserve the paint and make future cleanings easier. I highly recommend the Blackfire Wet Diamond w/polycharger because it looks amazing, applies with ease and protects for months (4-6). I also use it on the headlights, exterior glass and wheels for added protection. You only need about 1 oz per coat for a medium size car so apply it nice and thin for best results. Blackfire Wet Diamond with Polycharger). If you want to a layer a wax on top you can, it'll add more protection and gloss but it's not a must at all. If interested let me know and I'll provide you some recommendations.

Microfiber - Microfiber is paint safe and highly effective at removing the left over clay lube, polish, sealant, wax, etc. For this process I would suggest getting 3x - 6x of the DI Microfiber All Purpose Towel. These towels are also great for interior cleanings, apply protection, leather care, glass care and so much more!
Interior Protection
303 Aerospace Protectant protects just about the whole interior (vinyl, plastic, rubber, leather). It blocks out UV rays and preserves the finish so apply it to the dashboard, doors, console, arm rests, exterior trim, rubber moldings, etc. etc. Protecting the carpets and mats is super easy just mist the 303 High Tech Fabric Guard on them and you are done! It will help repel moisture and the fabric will look exactly the same. It's such an easy step that many people skip over but trust me it's well worth it. The SONAX Leather Foam can be used on the leather as well to keep it clean, without any extra gloss or shine that is generally not good for the leather.

Wheels
I love the new SONAX Wheel Cleaner Full Effect which is very strong yet pH neutral and totally safe to use. It helps clean the wheels quickly and effectively! To protect the wheels you can use the same sealant listed above or get something like the Poorboy's World Wheel Sealant.

Tires
If you want the tires looking like new year round the TUF SHINE Tire Appearance Kit is an amazing product. It provides a semi-permanet coating that keeps the tires looking new, repelling moisture and contaminants while still good for the rubber.

If you follow these basic pre-cautions your vehicle will look great for years to come and keep the re-sale value up! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. Take care!

Greg @ DI