Help & Advice
Altro Cyber Attack:
Autoglym is a trading name of Altro Limited. On 3 November the Altro Group suffered a cyber-attack. We are continuing to investigate this with cyber security experts.
As with any such incident, as a precaution we would encourage our business contacts to be vigilant for any suspicious activity (for example on emails, bank accounts or credit cards). If you identify or report any such issues we would be grateful if you could please also make us aware as this may assist our investigations. You can do this by emailing your name and contact number only to mydata@autoglym.com and someone will call you back.
Let us help you get back that showroom shine. All tips, tricks and trade secrets from professional detailers and Autoglyms product advisers.
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Popular Questions
My vinyl dashboard is sticky. How can I remove this?
A vinyl dash can be cleaned thoroughly with Interior Shampoo to remove any stickiness or dirt. If the stickiness remains use Intensive Tar Remover. After drying, the vinyl dash can be dressed with Vinyl & Rubber Care. This can leave a matt or shiny finish depending on your preference.
What product should I use to clean/protect artico artificial leather?
To clean artificial leather use Interior Shampoo. To dress and protect artificial leather use Vinyl & Rubber Care.
What do I use to clean the "buffalino" leather in my Audi?
The buffalino leather in your Audi can be cleaned with Autoglym Leather Cleaner and periodically fed with Autoglym Leather Care Balm.
Can you use Leather Cleaner and Leather Care Balm on my sofa or house furniture?
We do not recommend the use of our Leather Cleaner or Leather Care Balm on non automotive leather. This is due to the different finishes that manufacturers can apply to household leather.
My car only has leather on the face of the front seats, with vinyl on the back seats and everywhere else, is there a product that will work for cleaning both front & back?
Ideally we would recommend 2 products to you, the Leather Cleaner and the Interior Shampoo. However, Interior Shampoo is safe for use on leather provided you use it as follows. DO NOT spray directly on to leather, spray onto a cloth and then apply the cloth to the leather, test an inconspicuous area first and do not use on leather that has been re-coloured or repaired.
Are both of these products safe for use on cream leather?
Both of these products are suitable for cream leather. We do advise to always test in an inconspicuous area for colour fastness before cleaning the entire seat.
What should I use to buff off the Leather Care Balm?
A clean, dry microfibre cloth is perfect for buffing away any excess Leather Care Balm.
I have perforated Leather Seats. Will the Leather Care Balm leave a residue in the holes?
The best method for applying Leather Care Balm to a perforated leather seat is to always apply the balm to a cloth and never directly to the leather. Use a small amount of Leather Care balm and spread evenly over the surface, adding more if required. Using a small amount of the balm will help to avoid 'filling' the perforations in the leather.
Can I use Wheel Protector on Non Laquered Wheels
Wheel Protector can be used on non laquered wheels.
Is it safe to use Clean Wheels on black painted wheels?
It is safe to use Clean Wheels and Custom Wheel Cleaner on painted wheels, provided they are in good condition and you pay attention to the label on the rear of the bottle before starting work.
Will Clean Wheels strip High Definition Wax from wheels?
Clean Wheels will not necessarily strip High Definition Wax from wheels, but will be detrimental to the durability of the wax. If you have High Definition Wax on wheels they will be easier to keep clean, wash with Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner instead, the dirt will be removed much more easily.
What should I use to clean powder coated black wheels?
Custom Wheel Cleaner would be the best option for your powder coated wheels.
Can I use Custom Wheel Cleaner on split rims?
Custom Wheel Cleaner cannot be used on split rims.
My car has carbon ceramic brake discs, which of your wheel cleaning products can I use without risk of damage to the brake disc?
Custom Wheel Cleaner Kit is suitable for use on vehicles with ceramic disc brakes.
I have chrome wire wheels, how do you remove small rust spots which are developing?
You can use Super Resin Polish on the rust spots to remove any build up, but this is not a long term solution and proper rust prevention advice should be sought from specialists in that field.
How long will Wheel Protector Last?
Wheel Protector has been formulated to last for up to 6 weeks depending on weather and driving conditions.
How does Wheel Protector compare to your previous product, Alloy Wheel Seal?
We have replaced Alloy Wheel Seal with Wheel Protector. This is a new formulation using a different technology which offers a super hydrophobic (water repellant) film that stops dirt particles sticking to the surface. Wheel Protector will protect your wheels for up to 6 weeks where as Alloy Wheel Seal would only protect your wheels for up to 2 weeks.
How many applications will I get from one can of Wheel Protector?
This depends on the size of your wheels however on average the 300ml can contains enough product to protect 16 wheels. This means that if you treat your wheels once every 6 weeks the can will last for up to 6 months!
Can I use Wheel Protector on Chrome Rims?
Wheel Protector is not suitable for mirrored surfaces. As an alternative try using High Definition Wax.
Can I use Wheel Protector on Diamond Cut Rims?
Wheel protector can be used on non mirrored diamond cut wheels however it is not suitable for mirrored finishes.
Can I use Wheel Protector on Multiple Spoke wheels?
Wheel protector can be used on multiple spoked wheels providing the spokes are not a mirrored finish.
Can I use Wheel Protector if I have exposed ceramic brakes?
Wheel protector should not be sprayed directly onto ceramic brakes however a small amount of overspray will not cause any harm.
Can I use Wheel Protector on matte or dark coloured wheels?
Wheel Protector is not suitable for dark coloured matte effect wheel surfaces. It can be used on light colours such as silver and light grey matte effects.
Is Wheel Protector safe for Brake Discs?
Although Wheel Protector should not be applied directly to brake discs, a small amount of over spray will not cause any harm.
How can I remove Wheel Protector?
Using a wheel cleaner such as Clean Wheels or Custom Wheel Cleaner and agitation with a brush or spnge will remove Wheel Protector.
What do I do if I accidentally apply some Wheel Protector to my paintwork?
If Wheel Protector is accidentally over sprayed onto paintwork, simply wipe this away from the paintwork with a microfibre cloth before it dries.
My van is painted in satin paint, what do you recommend to clean and protect it with?
Wash and dry the satin black van with Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner and then protect with High Definition Wax.
I'd like to wash my car which had a High Definition Wax treatment. Do you have any product which won't strip this layer?
Bodywork Shampoo and Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner will not strip High Definition Wax due to the pH neutral formula.
What can I use to clean a motorhome with a gelcoat finish?
Caravan & Motorhome Cleaner has been formulated for use on caravans and is selected and recommended by Carlight, Compass, Buccaneer, Coachman, Crown, Elddis and Herald. Following the cleaning you can polish your caravan with Super Resin Polish and protect with Extra Gloss Protection
Is Active Insect Remover safe to use on my gelcoat motorhome?
Active Insect Remover is safe to use on your gelcoat motorhome.
What's the best product for removing bug stains from my front bumper?
To remove bug deposits as they occur, use Active Insect Remover. To address any staining that may remain, apply Super Resin Polish firmly.
My van is painted in satin paint, what do you recommend to clean and protect it with?
Wash and dry the satin black van with Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner and then protect with High Definition Wax.
I'd like to wash my car which had a High Definition Wax treatment. Do you have any product which won't strip this layer?
Bodywork Shampoo and Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner will not strip High Definition Wax due to the pH neutral formula.
What can I use to clean a motorhome with a gelcoat finish?
Caravan & Motorhome Cleaner has been formulated for use on caravans and is selected and recommended by Carlight, Compass, Buccaneer, Coachman, Crown, Elddis and Herald. Following the cleaning you can polish your caravan with Super Resin Polish and protect with Extra Gloss Protection
Can I use Engine & Machine Cleaner as a degreaser for the lower half of the vehicle, if not what is a suitable product?
Engine & Machine Cleaner can be used as a degreaser for the lower half of the vehicle.
What is best product to clean door and boot shuts?
The best product to clean door and boot shuts is Engine & Machine Cleaner. The rubber in these areas can then be treated with Vinyl and Rubber Care.
What is the best way to remove engine and Engine & Machine Cleaner when I have applied and agitated it?
Working from the lower areas upwards, hose off using plenty of water to reveal the clean and sparkling finish.
I have tar spots on the bonnet that even Intensive Tar Remover haven't touched, what can I do?
Apply the Intensive Tar Remover again, but allow the product to dwell for longer this time. There is the possibility that the spots are not tar at all and could be another substance. If the second application of Intensive Tar Remover fails to shift the deposit then it may be bonded contamination that will need removing with the Surface Detailing Clay Kit.
How can I remove marks and oxidation from window rubbers?
Clean the window rubbers with Interior Shampoo (this is the case even for the exterior window rubbers) rinse and allow to dry. Then apply Vinyl and Rubber Care to the rubber, taking care not to get any on the windows.
What will remove all the carbon off my exhaust?
Metal Polish would be the best product for removing carbon deposits from an exhaust pipe.
Could you tell me if your Pressure Wash is harmful to your HD Wax?
Pressure Wash is not harmful to High Definition Wax and will not remove the wax layer on your vehicle in one application.
What could I use as a chemical in my pressure washer
We would advise pressure/jet/power wash owners to use Autoglym Pressure Wash in their detergent tank. Pressure Wash has been formulated for use in all types of household pressure washers. It contains a balanced blend of surface-active ingredients to lift grease, grime and traffic film without harm to polished paintwork, plastics and trim.
What to use on matte vinyl wraps on the bodywork on my car?
Refer to the wrap manufacturers instructions, the cleaning product recommendations vary between different brands.
Do I need to dry the car before applying Rapid Aqua Wax?
No. Rapid Aqua Wax has been formulated to work best on a wet car. After using Shampoo on your vehicle, Rinse away all of the suds apply two squirts to each body panel. Then use one of the blue microfibres to spread the wax evenly over the vehicle and the second to buff the vehicle and remove any left over water.
What can I use on chrome effect plastic trims?
Super Resin Polish can be used on chrome effect plastics and you can even use HD Wax
Do you sell a polish that does not contain silicone?
We do not have a silicone free polish.
Can I apply the polish first and then apply the wax?
You should always apply the polish first and then the wax. The polish does the renovating and repair work and the wax seals in and protects that polished paintwork.
How often should I wax my car?
You should wax your car when it ceases to repel water, or when an improvement in appearance is required. As a general rule of thumb, High Definition Wax will require 3-4 applications per year, depending on the type of weathering your car is exposed to.
Which products are best to clean and preserve a carbon fibre roof, and in what order?
To clean and preserve a carbon fibre roof or any other surface first ensure it is lacquered (if it isn't lacquered it will be rough and textured to the touch). First wash the area with Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner, then polish with Super resin Polish and finally seal and protect with High Definition Wax.
If I use a second coat of Extra Gloss over an earlier coat of Extra Gloss does it have a cumulative effect or does it simply replace the first coat?
Only one coat of Extra Gloss Protection is sufficient for a long lasting protective layer. You will receive little benefit from layering and it may be difficult to maintain an even coat or it may remove the first layer.
Can I use High Definition Wax on top of Lifeshine?
You can use High Definition Wax on top of Lifeshine.
If I use a second coat of High Definition Wax over an earlier coat of High Definition Wax does it have a cumulative effect or does it simply replace the first coat?
Only one coat of High Definition Wax is sufficient for a long lasting protective layer. You can layer if required though.
When I opened my new High Definition Wax, the wax was slightly separated from its container around the sides. Is this ok?
High Definition Wax can sometimes shrink away from the sides of the container during the natural air cooling period that each pot goes through. This does not adversely affect the product in any way and the Wax is still perfectly in specification.
Does the High Definition Wax contains any Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE - also known as Teflon)?
High Definition Wax does not contain any Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE - also known by the DuPont brand name Teflon).
After waxing with High Definition Wax is it ok to use Instant Show Shine?
Yes, after waxing with High Definition Wax it is ok to use Instant Show Shine. Aqua Wax and Rapid Detailer can be used to restore and add further protection to a waxed finish.
Can High Definition Wax be applied after using Ultra Deep Shine?
We do not recommend the use of High Definition Wax and Ultra Deep Shine together.
What effect does the use of Intensive Tar Remover have on the durability of Extra Gloss Protection treated surfaces?
The use of Intensive Tar Remover over a surface treated with Extra Gloss Protection will weaken it. It is advisable to reapply Extra Gloss Protection to a treated surface after using Intensive Tar Remover.
The adhesive from the L plate remains on my car, how can I remove it?
To remove the adhesive from the L plate that remains on your car, use Intensive Tar Remover on the area as directed. This will safely break down the adhesive and allow you to simply wipe it off your paintwork.
Can Paint Renovator be applied with a machine polisher
Paint Renovator is to be used by hand and not by machine.
Can I apply polish with a sponge?
You can apply Super Resin Polish or Ultra Deep Shine with a polish sponge, ideally a foam Perfect Polish Applicator.
Can I use Aqua Wax to my car after treated by High Definition Wax and can I use Aqua Wax often every time when I wash my car?
Aqua Wax can be used every time you wash and is a great top up wax to use in between applications of High Definition Wax.
What effect does the use of Rapid Detailer have on the durability of Extra Gloss Protection treated surfaces?
The use of Rapid Detailer on a surface that has been treated with Extra Gloss Protection will not adversely affect its durability or finish. The Rapid Detailer will sit on top of the Extra Gloss, not remove it and actually add a layer of additional protection.
Is Super Resin Polish abrasive how many times can you use it and are you at risk of damaging the lacquer?
Super Resin Polish shouldn't be thought of as an abrasive, it is a gentle cleaner and polisher. There is no risk of damaging the lacquer during normal use and it can be used as often as required.
Can I use Rapid Detailer with Super Resin Polish instead of Extra Gloss Protection?
Rapid Detailer will not perform the same job as Extra Gloss Protection. Rapid Detailer is a quick cleaner, Extra Gloss Protection is a liquid wax sealant that will provide many months of protection and shine.
My red car is faded. What's best to bring the colour back? Also once the colour is back can it be protected?
Super Resin Polish applied firmly will restore the colour to a faded red panel. However, if the paint his particularly bad it may require a professional product such as Autoglym Paint Renovator. Once the original colour has returned you can seal the surface with Extra Gloss Protection or High Definition Wax, although depending on the extent of the fade, you may need to polish more regularly.
How do I remove sun cream from my paintwork?
With great difficulty. Most modern sun creams are designed to stay on skin that goes in and out of water, that has clothes pulled on and off and is resistant to the suns rays. As such it is good at sticking to surfaces such as car paintwork. There is some success using Super Resin Polish applied firmly to the area, although this does not work in 100% of cases. Even the sun cream manufacturers don't have a solution.
Can I use Super Resin Polish too much?
You cannot overuse use Super Resin.
How can I restore paintwork discolouration caused by a magnetic sign?
Super Resin Polish will restore paintwork discolouration caused by a magnetic sign. Increase the pressure used to apply over the affected area.
How do I restore brushed aluminium trim on my car?
Super Resin Polish should be used to restore the brushed aluminium trim.
Can Super Resin Polish be used on any metal surface?
Super Resin Polish can be used on any finished smooth automotive metal surface including chrome.
What is best to clean tarnished chrome grill
Super Resin Polish is best to clean tarnished chrome grill. If it is particularly stubborn use Metal Polish.
Can I use Super Resin Polish, then finish with Ultra Deep Shine?
You should only use one type of polish on a car. There is no benefit at all to using both Super Resin Polish and Ultra Deep Shine.
Why is it more difficult to buff off Ultra Deep Shine compared to Super Resin Polish?
Whilst Ultra Deep Shine shares many characteristics with Super Resin Polish, it has added components to combat swirls and holograms on darker paints. These added components mean that Ultra Deep Shine needs to be used in a slightly different way to Super Resin Polish. With Super Resin Polish, you can apply the polish to the whole vehicle and then work round buffing it off. With Ultra Deep Shine it is best to apply to a panel, allow the polish to dry and then buff off immediately and then moving on to the next panel. If you do this you will find the product no harder to use than Super Resin Polish.
How do I clean the green moss or algae from exterior rubber trim?
Interior Shampoo and a firm sponge will clean the green moss or algae from exterior rubber trim. Depending on the extent of the algae you may need several applications and a good deal of scrubbing, but it will come off.
How do I make a light scratch on my glove box fascia less noticeable?
Vinyl & Rubber Care may lessen the appearance of scratches on interior plastics depending on their severity, however deep gouges are untreatable.
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