Experts: 'Skip the extras' when heading to the car wash

Going to the car wash can become difficult when taking into consideration all of the add-ons that are commonly offered. You just want your car cleaned, but then there's a sometimes staggering list of options you can add, including the tire shine, wheel bright and the undercarriage wash.

A good car wash helps protect your paint and finish, especially from things that can sometimes leave a permanent mark like road salt, bird droppings, tree sap and bugs.

But are any of the add-ons worth the extra cost to help protect your car?

"Definitely skip the extras," said Consumer Report's Jon Linkov. "They may make your car look nice, but they'll wear off fast."

Trim levels don't trim new car prices

However, Consumer Reports says go for the undercarriage wash once a season so that mud, sand and salt don't cause it to rust.

And, while automatic car washes tend to be less expensive, they obviously don't offer the attention to detail of a hand wash.

Some manual car washes also lack attention to detail. Consumer Reports says wherever you go, take a good look around at other cars.

"Check out the cars leaving the location, do they look clean," said Linkov. "Super cheap car washes may use dirty towels, old, harsh brushes and rush your car through the process."

You should also try to find a car wash that sprays down the car before the wash cycle begins.

As for how often you should wash your car, Consumer Reports' answer is simple: when you see stuff on it, wash it.

If you prefer to wash your car yourself, Consumer Reports says rinse it first and don't use household cleaning products such as dish detergent. It can strip a car's finish. Also don't move the sponge in circles, it can leave swirl marks.