Shine Your Car for Chinese New Year
Shine. That’s what I aim for every Chinese New Year. While most people sleep in or snack all day, I take this time to clean, polish, and prep my cars. A shiny ride feels like a fresh start — and nothing says “new year” like a car that gleams.
Before the celebrations, I cleaned my room. Then I moved on to something more exciting — detailing my 2002 Toyota Celica. The paint was dull. The engine bay was grimy. It needed serious attention. I took two full days off to get the job done.
First Step to Shine: Wash & Clay
The Celica hadn’t been washed in three months. Dust, mud, and grime covered every inch. I started with Magic101 Wash & Wax Shampoo. It cut through the dirt fast.
Once the surface was clean, I used a Detailogy clay bar. Claying removed stubborn particles the wash couldn’t. It also made th
e paint smooth and ready for waxing. I didn’t stop for photos — I was fully focused on restoring that shine.
Inside Out: Engine Bay Detail
Next up was the engine bay. It was filthy and neglected. I sprayed Waxco Engine Degreaser generously. With a brush, I worked it into every tight spot.
After wiping it down, the difference was huge. The engine bay didn’t just look clean — it looked fresh, almost new. A clean engine bay adds to the overall shine, even if it’s under the hood.
Final Touch for Shine: Waxing
Now the best part — waxing. I used Soft99 Wax, a budget-friendly favorite. It’s easy to apply, buffs off clean, and delivers a mirror-like finish.
As I applied the wax, the paint transformed. Dull panels turned glossy. Reflections sharpened. The applicator pad stayed clean, meaning the surface had little embedded dirt. That told me my prep work paid off.
Waxing didn’t just improve the look — it protected the paint. Now the Celica doesn’t just shine, it stays shiny longer.
Mission Complete
After hours of work, the Celica looked incredible. Smooth, glossy, and ready for the new year. I took a step back and admired the result — that satisfying, deep shine.
But I wasn’t done. My Proton Satria and 19-year-old Proton Saga were still waiting. Car detailing during Chinese New Year has become my yearly ritual. It brings peace, satisfaction, and most of all, shine.
