How often should you wash your car? The answer might vary depending on where you live, the type of driving you do, the time of year and your personal preferences.

Many experts say that every two weeks is a solid approach. The goal is to protect your car’s finish by removing the dirt, grime, bugs and bird droppings that vehicles encounter on the road. Driving the car through a high-quality, automated car wash twice a month is often enough to get the job done.

Of course, those who live in rough climates, dusty areas or who need a clean car for work—or simply want one—may choose to do it more frequently.

Experts say that the finish on modern cars is extremely durable and that they resist fade, wear and rust far better than their counterparts from decades past. But keeping the car clean can reduce problems and prevent scratches. It also helps keep the owner from getting dirty when they lean against it.

The type of car wash that works best has experts divided. So-called “touchless” car washes, which use high-pressure water and cleaners to remove dirt, won’t scratch paint. But some experts say that soft-cloth washes do a better job because they physically remove dirt.

Which options to choose at a car wash are also a matter of personal preference.

• Spray-on Wax. Liquid waxes sprayed on at car washes can be helpful from a cosmetic standpoint—they make your car look better in the moment—but they do not protect the finish like a paste wax applied by hand.
• Wheel Cleaning. This can be helpful for cars with a buildup of brake dust, which is sometimes easier to remove if special cleaners are used. It will keep the car looking clean but is unlikely to impact performance.
• Undercarriage Spray. A good undercarriage wash blasts the bottom of your car with water to remove elements that can cause corrosion. If you drive through mud or live in an area with heavy salt use, it is a good idea to use the undercarriage wash at least once per season.
• Of course, the interior of a car also gets dirty. Using a car wash that wipes down surfaces and vacuums can cut down the buildup of dust, stains, pet hair and other problems that make a car messy. Some owners also choose to get their car “detailed,” a much more thorough cleaning inside and out, once a year or more.

There does come a time when older cars get difficult to refresh and it is time to get a new, or at least a newer, vehicle. If you have reached that point, one way to make a start is to get pre-qualified for auto financing at Credit Acceptance and begin to set a budget. Just fill out the short application form to get started on your pre-qualification.