Okay,
basically - if you keep your paint polished and sealed up with a good wax, less crap sticks to it, oxidation is stopped, and it will shine BC the surface of the clear coat is smoother, and the wax/sealer will reflect this shine.
Here's what I've used and like:
I've tried all of the poorboys line and a bunch of other stuff. So I can vouge for these:
http://www.poorboysworld.com/
Juzstang can get you a good discount on this stuff, so check with him first.
i'm using the poorboys site links for information:
Juzstang: Obsessive Detal:
http://www.obsessivedetail.com/polishesandswirlremovers.html
you may want to look at one of his package deals.
Wash, Get a good sudsy wash that doesn't strip the wax off:
I like this:
http://www.poorboysworld.com/super-slick.htm
No more wash mitt's rags or whatever you may be useing.
only microfiber or a detailer sponge should touch your car!
Polish:
Once washed, you'll want to polish the finish to remove swirl marks and small scratches.
you'll want an orbital for this. you can start with a cheapo from auto zone or whatever.
I burned one up, then bout the Porter cable, which works G R E A T.
PB professional Polish:
http://www.obsessivedetail.com/polishesandswirlremovers.html
3M perfect it II is also a good all around use polish
The SSR line is pretty good but dusts, I'd try out the professional polish for starters.
Wax:
Then once polished, and wiped off, it's ready to
wax!
natty's is great.
The EX sealer wax will last longer.
http://www.poorboysworld.com/ex-sealant.htm
this or EXP is a great sealer.
you can also use a sealer wax, and put natty's on top of that for ultra shine.
Spray and Gloss - spray wipe between waxes is my Freind! I've about used my 1 gallon bottle over the last few years.
http://www.poorboysworld.com/spray-gloss.htm
you'll definatly want this stuff. it works awsome on paint, glass and chrome.
And I'll tell you what, this wheel cleaner works great on wheels and tires to remove: brake dust, and the tire spary grime on the tires etc.
http://www.poorboysworld.com/spray-rinse.htm
Other than that, you'll want the basic applicators, sponge or micro washer.
Microfiber towells!!!!! NEVER USE ANYTHING BUT THEM TO WIPE YOUR PAINT WITH!!
a large waffle weave or 2 to dry the car, then a number of basic micros for application and wipe down.
applicator for tire shine.
brush for wheels/tires.
You'll really see a difference when you detail your car like this and keep it polished and sealed up.
beyond this, it's elbow grease, attention to detail, and learning how to put it down.
Have fun!!!
Here's some detail threads I've done:
http://www.sn95forums.com/forum/index.php?topic=3480.0
http://www.sn95forums.com/forum/index.php?topic=4539.0
Detailed a bunch of cars that had overspray on them:
http://www.sn95forums.com/forum/index.php?topic=4539.0
http://www.sn95forums.com/forum/index.php?topic=10825.0