How to Properly Wash and Detail Your Nissan R34 GT-R

Prepping Your R34 GT-R for a Proper Wash

Owning the mighty R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R comes with its fair share of responsibilities. And if you want your prized JDM import to retain its value and performance, proper maintenance is key. That includes regularly washing your GT-R to remove dirt, grime, and contaminants that can wear down the paint and components.

Gather Your Washing Supplies

Before bringing your beloved R34 to the wash bay, gather the necessary cleaning supplies to safely and effectively clean the vehicle without damaging the paint or components:

• Two buckets - one for soapy water, one for rinsing
• Grit guards for the wash buckets
• Lambswool wash mitt
• Wheel cleaning brushes
• Wheel well cleaning brushes
• Separate towels and mitts for cleaning wheels/wells and paint
• pH neutral car wash soap
• Wheel cleaner
• Tire cleaner
• Quick detailer spray
• Microfiber drying towels

Inspect and Prep the Vehicle

Before washing, inspect your R34 GT-R and prepare it to limit water intrusion. This includes:

• Closing all windows and the sunroof
• Checking door jambs for debris that could fall in
• Covering intake vents with plastic and tape
• Removing loose items/trash from interior

You'll also want to remove any superficial contaminants first by spraying the vehicle with water, letting it dwell briefly, and rinsing. This prevents scratching the clear coat during the main wash.

Washing Your Nissan R34 GT-R

The Two Bucket Method

The key to safely washing your R34 is using the two bucket method. Fill one bucket with your car wash soap mixed with water, and fill the second with only clean water for rinsing. Using separate buckets keeps grit and debris from transferring back to your wash mitt.

Wash from Top to Bottom

When washing, always go from top to bottom. Start with the roof and work down to the hood, trunk, quarter panels etc. finishing with the wheels and wells. This prevents cleaner from splattering onto already cleaned panels.

Use Mitts and Brushes Properly

Use lambswool wash mitts when cleaning your GT-R's painted surfaces, applying light pressure in straight lines. Different brushes should be used for intricate areas like badges, grilles, door jambs etc. And separate designated mitts and brushes are essential for the wheels and wells to prevent brake dust scratching.

Common Problem Areas

Pay special attention when hand washing several notoriously dirty areas of your R34 Skyline:

• Wheels and wells - Brake dust builds up here quickly
• Door jambs - Debris fall in here and leads to rust
• Badges and trim - Grime gets trapped around these parts
• Headlights and taillights - Get foggy over time

Safely Drying Your GT-R

Properly drying your car after washing is just as crucial as the wash itself. Chamois or terry cloths can instill swirls if not used correctly. High quality microfiber drying towels are the best solution. Gently pat dry each section after washing, taking extra care on curved or intricate surfaces.

Maintaining That Showroom Shine

Regular Waxing

After washing, apply a fresh coat of wax to protect your R34's paint. How often you'll need to wax depends on several factors. Typically every 3-6 months is ideal for maintaining shine and protection.

Quick Detail Sprays

In between full washes, you can remove light contaminants with a quick detailer spray. They provide some cleaning properties and often contain wax that adds supple protection when needed between full wax jobs.

Proper Storage

How and where you store your GT-R also plays into keeps the exterior looking pristine. Park it inside when possible, use car covers, clean off bird droppings quickly, and avoid parking under trees or near sprinklers where sap and minerals can bond to the paint.

By using the proper products and techniques covered here during your GT-R's bath time, you'll keep your prized JDM import looking just as stunning as the day you drove it off the dealer lot for years to come.

FAQs

How often should I wash my R34 GT-R?

You should aim to wash your R34 GT-R at least once every 2 weeks. Washing regularly prevents contaminants from bonding to the paint and clear coat. Frequent washing also makes cleaning easier since you're not allowing excessive build up.

Can I take my R34 through automated car washes?

You should avoid taking your R34 GTR through automated car washes. The brushes and high-pressure jets used can instill swirl marks and scratch your paint, wheels, trim and badges. Always opt for hand washing instead.

What areas on my GT-R are prone to rust?

Common areas prone to rusting on R34 Skylines include inside the wheel wells, door jambs, undercarriage, rear quarters, trunk, and lower body panels. Pay extra attention to thoroughly cleaning and drying these zones when washing.

What products can I use to maintain my R34's shine?

Using a quality wax every 3-6 months after washing will protect your paint and maintain shine between washes. Quick detailer sprays with wax add extra gloss and protection between wax jobs. Storing indoors in a car cover also helps keep the exterior pristine.