After you spent a few all-nighters installing accessories and doing last minute add-ons, the least of your worries is cleaning the car. Right? Many competitors make that mistake and it costs them in the points scale. Therefore, from an ex-competitor, owner of Winning Edge Customs, and 2006 DUB Custom Auto Show head judge from the Elite Judging Team, here are a few pointers on prepping your auto just right.

First, every competitor must understand that it is a car show competition. As impressive as it may be that a vehicle is a daily driver, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s up against “trailer queens.” This makes it difficult for some competitors whose vehicles receive rock chips and all the abuse from seeing pavement on a daily basis. This doesn’t even include the effects of Mother Nature. Just remember the show is built for spectators and they don’t come to see the car next door. Depending on the extent of your modifications, judges will put you in the proper class to compete. So, yes, you are up against the guy on the trailer if you both spent the same amount of time at the body shop.

The judging of competition vehicles is based on a points scale. The vehicle is broken down into different categories by the judge. These include 1) paint, 2) body, 3) engine, 4) wheels and tires, 5) suspension, 6) interior, 7) audio, 8) trunk, hatch or bed area, and 9) “extra credit.” Twenty points are available for paint and body, and ten points for each additional category. This adds up to a max total of 120 points. Competition vehicles are expected to be spotless in the areas to be viewed by the general public. If you’re expecting a trophy, then you definitely want to make that extra effort to clean any areas that the judges will be keeping an eye on. Judges are looking for both modifications and cleanliness.

Keep in mind that cleanliness is important for many reasons. You wouldn’t show up to a wedding in dirty clothes, so don’t display your auto with grime. It’s very important to know how to clean your own vehicle. Most shows provide car show contestants with two passes, so bring along a friend for companionship and aid in prepping the vehicle.