Hyundai Ioniq 6 detailing in Houston

What we watch for

Paint and interior on the Ioniq 6

Paint and exterior

That single curve means a big, soft roof panel that marrs easily if it is washed with a dirty mitt, and the rear spoiler has pixel brake lights built in, with edges that collect sealant residue. The darker colors show swirls first, especially on the long roof.

Interior

The window switches sit on the center console rather than the doors, there is a bridge-style console with open storage underneath, and the seats are recycled fabric or synthetic leather. The wide screen panel holds fingerprints.

Living in Houston

On long Westpark and Grand Parkway commutes the low nose gathers love bugs and road tar. The sloping rear glass sits nearly flat in the sun and holds hard-water spots if the car is left wet.

• Soft clear coat: it marks from a dirty towel or an automatic wash, so every wash is two-bucket with clean mitts, and polishing finishes down with a fine pad.
• Black and dark colors are common: they show swirls, water spots and pollen film first, and benefit most from a coating.
• Synthetic leather: it does not need conditioner, just a gentle cleaner and a matte protectant so it does not go shiny.
• Large touchscreens: cleaned with a screen-safe, ammonia-free product and a dedicated cloth.
• Electric: there is no engine bay, but the frunk, charge port door and underbody plastics get cleaned, and washing an EV is completely safe.