<blockquote><div>Any chance of sending a short list of 'Essentials' through for newbies who want to do what they can to preserve the beauty with minimum effort?</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers</div></blockquote> <br /><br />There are some good guides at the following links:<br /><br />http://www.theultimatefinish.co.uk/car-care-blog/car-care-guides/<br /><br />http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acatalog/car-care-advice.html<br /><br />Also loads of information on the Detailing World forum but it can be a bit of information overload! <br /><br />Brands will always be personal preference but my favourites have been Poorboy's and Dodo Juice for a while now. However, I recently discovered gtechniq and have fallen in love with their products. Used a lot of them for the detail that just won that competition. <br /><br />My two key bits of advice are to make sure the car is well protected (with a coating, sealant or wax) and then make sure you don't inflict any damage by washing very carefully. <br /><br />For the latter point, make sure you use a good quality wash mitt (not a sponge), a good shampoo and the two bucket method you'll find described at the links above. Rinse the mitt lots. Use a separate mitt for wheels. I always do my wheels first then use a different mitt and fresh water for the Bodywork. <br /><br />A pre wash with a foam gun will help reduce the risk of swirls and scratches even further. <br /><br />There are loads of things I could suggest but have a read through the guides and shout if you have any questions. Several other keen detailers on here too who I'm sure will be happy to help. <br /><br />Perhaps we should arrange an F-type detailing meet?! <img src="http://www.ftypeforums.co.uk/images/converted_files/smileys/smiley4.gif" border="0" align="middle" />