Caring for a matte car can sometimes be frustrating and tedious. If you own a car with a matte finish, you’ve probably noticed that matte surfaces are very sensitive to external influences, even light ones, so matte surfaces can even show fingerprints. Caring for matte surfaces requires special products. Today, we bring you a detailed guide on cleaning, washing, and protecting matte car surfaces, after which you’ll know how to properly care for matte surfaces. Nanolex has tested the best practices in car detailing for over two decades, and today we bring you the best from the world of car detailing. To give you a detailed introduction to the process of caring for a matte car, Alex, our long-time and experienced detailer, will walk you through the entire process using a matte G-Wagen Mercedes Benz that we coated a year ago.
Preparation and rim cleaning of a matte car
What is the best way to prepare for cleaning matte cars?
We recommend starting with wheel cleaning. The first step is decontamination, just like with any other vehicle. Alex usually starts with Nanolex Wheel Cleaner & Iron Remover , applying it evenly to the wheels. This cleaner removes not only dirt but also stubborn iron particles.
Then we recommend using Nanolex Professional Wheel Cleaner Concentrate , diluted 1:5, to remove dirt from tires. Pour the diluted solution into a suitable spray bottle or pressure sprayer for easy handling and even distribution. Ensure the rims are cold and dry for optimal cleaning results.
An important tip from Alex:
“Remember to change the spray direction to reach all areas.”
Let the cleaner work for a few minutes, but don’t let it dry on the rims. Then brush thoroughly to ensure the rims are as clean as possible.
Pre-wash and paint cleaning of a matte car
The next step is to pre-wash with the same wheel cleaner and iron remover to remove iron deposits from the paint. Apply the product liberally to areas where iron deposits typically accumulate, such as behind the brakes and at the rear of the vehicle.
Why is pre-washing important when cleaning your car?
Mix Nanolex Professional PreWash Concentrate with 500 ml of water at a ratio of 1:10, then dilute it to 1:100 using a pressure washer. Allow the product to work for a few minutes to effectively loosen stubborn dirt such as insects and bird droppings. Use a soft brush to clean tight areas and remove as much dirt as possible. Rinse the treated surfaces thoroughly with a pressure washer.
Main wash with matte shampoo
Which shampoo is suitable for washing matte cars?
Now it’s time for the main wash, so we use Nanolex Matte Reactivating Shampoo . This shampoo is specially formulated to protect matte paint without increasing shine. Alex mixes it in a foam sprayer at a 1:10 ratio and uses three capfuls in a bucket to clean the G-Wagen. When washing your vehicle, use light, pressure-free motions and rinse the wash pad regularly. We recommend trying the Ultra Plus Wash Pad , which is specially designed for gentle and effective car cleaning.
One impressive feature of this shampoo is its protective effect. Alex noted that it creates a beautiful pearl effect and provides an additional layer of protection over the Nanolex Si3D Matte Coating applied a year ago .
Drying and final care of a matte car
Provides additional protection for matte surfaces
To dry the vehicle, spray a few sprays of the Nanolex Matte Final Finish onto the Ultra Drying Towel and wipe the car using light, gentle strokes. This drying aid ensures the vehicle dries streak-free, but can also be used as a quick detailer.
Another tip from Alex:
“Matte Final Finish works great as a quick detailer to maintain the matte finish without making it shiny.”
After the car is dry, spray it lightly onto a dry microfiber cloth, apply it to the paint and wipe it off with the clean side of the cloth.
Additional tips and tricks to make your car’s matte paint spotless
Use soft brushes! Hard brushes can damage the matte finish. Make sure you use soft brushes, especially for delicate areas.
Although matte surfaces may seem less demanding, regular cleaning and care are crucial for the long-term preservation and “like new” appearance of the car.
Avoid wax and shine enhancers for your matte car! These products can compromise the matte finish, so always use specially formulated matte products.
As you’ve probably noticed, washing a matte vehicle requires the right products and techniques to ensure the matte finish is well-maintained. By following this guide and using high-quality Nanolex products, you can thoroughly clean and protect your matte car without any headaches. Check out our other blog posts below for more useful information on how to properly care for your car.








