Start with a complete wash, paint decontamination, and interior clean. Judges and spectators notice the details you skip - bring a small detailing kit so you can remove dust and fingerprints before judging.
Pre-show checklist
- Wash, clay, polish, and seal the exterior - sealant a few days before, not the morning of.
- Clean wheels, tires, and wheel wells - the first thing judges see at a walk-around.
- Detail the engine bay: degrease, wipe down hoses, and dress plastics.
- Interior touch points: steering wheel, door jambs, seat belts, and glass.
- Prepare a short mod/build card for display with the car.
- Pack microfiber towels, quick detailer, and glass cleaner for day-of touch-ups.
Day-of tips
- Arrive early, park with good visibility, and do a final wipe-down once your car is in place.
- Keep your windshield and wheels clean throughout the event.
- Pop the hood early so the bay cools - a hot engine bay looks like an afterthought.
- Check your class rules so the car is presented the way judges expect.
What judges actually score. See our car show judging guide for the 100-point breakdown - exterior, engine bay, interior, and overall impression.
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