The Proper Way To Detail Your Mazda MX-5 Miata

To call the Mazda MX-5 Miata an automotive icon is an understatement. This sporty convertible has been turning heads for over three decades.

Of course, getting the biggest jaws to drop means taking the proper care of your baby. While there are plenty of automotive services out there that can clean and detail your Mazda MX-5 Miata, sometimes it’s fun to take on the task yourself. No one is going to care for your Miata the way that you do, so a good detail might even become part of your Miata’s care routine.

Here’s what you need to know to properly clean and detail your Mazda MX-5 Miata:

Step 1: Prepare

Cleaning a detailing a fine car is going to take time. Make sure you clear out the appropriate time on your schedule so that you don’t rush the job. You’ll also want to take a few moments to inspect the car. See if there are any areas that need special attention or if you can get right to work.

Another part of preparing is gathering the right supplies. Depending on how you equip your Miata, you may have a variety of different surfaces with which to work. The cleaning products you use should match your specific car’s specifications. Things like cloth, vinyl, leather, wood, and plastic all need different cleaning products and methods. Deep or strong stains may need additional products to complete the clean.

If you’re unsure of which products to use, check your owner’s manual or a trusted online forum to see what other Miata owners are using.

Step 2: Start On The Inside

The last thing you want to do is get dirt or dust from inside of your car stuck to a freshly cleaned outside. Go through the vehicle and remove everything that you can. This might include any loose change or wrappers, items that have fallen in the cupholders, etc. It’s even worth emptying the glove compartment and other cubbies. You can organize these items and put them away properly later.

Now it’s time to dust. Go over the dashboard, door panels, and any hard interior services. Grab a can of compressed air to help in tight spaces, and don’t forget to wipe out the air vents.

Once all of the dust is moving about, you can vacuum the interior. Remove the floor pads so you can clean those separately. It’s best to start vacuuming the headliner and working your way down. Don’t forget to clean out and get the trunk as well.

Use a foaming cleanser to get any carpet stains out. Spray it on, let it sit, and then gently wipe it up with a dry towel.

Now you can go over all of the hard interior surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. Hit the windows and mirrors with an ammonia-free glass cleaner for that perfect look.

You’ll want to clean your Miata’s seats based on their material. You may need to vacuum again to pick up any additional debris loosened by cleaning.

Step 3: Work Your Way Outside

The best place to start on your exterior is with the tires. These are going to be the dirtiest parts of the car, so get those gloves out to help. Getting this dirt off will ensure it doesn’t cause problems later on.

Rinse the tires and wheel wells with water. Use a good cleaner/degreaser and a nice wheel rim brush. Follow this up with a tire cleaner and tire protectant to the sidewalls. It will look like you have brand new wheels in no time.

Now you can wash the exterior. Make sure to rinse the car first to help loosen any dirt on the outside. A good car mitt and carwash soap will go a long way. It’s best to use one bucket of soapy water to wash and another bucket of clean water to rinse.

It’s critical that you only wash one section at a time. This method helps reduce dried soap marks on your beautifully clean Miata. Dry the car with a microfiber terry cloth.

Once the car is completely clean, use car wash polish to help eliminate any light scratches. Apply some polish (a one-inch circle) to a buffing pad and get to work. A power polisher is also useful at this point, but not necessary.

Finish up the exterior by cleaning any of the metal trim with the appropriate cleaner and microfiber cloth. You can now use liquid car wax to add a protective coating to your sophisticated sports car. It’s finally time to clean the exterior windows and mirrors with a glass cleaner. Wipe in a horizontal motion to reduce streaks.

Step 4: Admire and Relax

Make sure you end every cleaning and detailing session by taking a moment to look over your Mazda MX-5 Miata. Admire your work and take a moment to appreciate just how attractive this car really is.

You’re now welcome to go back to your day. Some drivers like to hit the road to show off their beauty, while others like to use a car cover to further protect their hard work. Whichever you choose, you can go through the rest of the day knowing that your baby looks its best.