Pick up the new car tomorrow - a 5 month old ex-demo Fabia 3 in Black Magic. Done under 2k miles and no noticeable scratches.

Although she'll come valeted I want to clean her up nicely and prep her for winter. All advice gratefully received, especially for keeping the alloys nice through a salty winter and the body looking reasonable but (most improtant) protected.

Tia.

A good wash all over including a hose down underneath and in the arches, followed by a polish and a good long lasting wax such as collinite should see the wax last through the winter.

Much more detail on cleaning can be found here:

A world for detailers...

I'd agree with the above - and if you are not already familiar with it, the most important thing you can probably do is to learn about the "two bucket" wash method - Car Care and Detailing Advice - How to wash and dry your car safely and effectively

I'm another fan of the Collinite waxes but Victoria, Poorboys, or Chemical Guys are all popular - have a look at the range of products available somewhere like Best Car Wax by Meguiar's, Optimum, Poorboys, Pinnacle and Chemical Guys or Elite Car Care

Meguiars and Autoglym can also be used and a good range is available at most Halfords stores - look out for the 3 for 2 offers that they have on regularly.

For wheel protection, I've just bought some Chimical Guys Wheel Guard - Chemical Guys Wheel Guard - Wheels & Tyres - Clean Your Car - car care products UK. I've not tried it yet but I asked for recommendations on here and that was one of the most popular.

I can recommend Collinite 476S wax. It lasted a good 5-6 months last winter.

Thanks folks. Just hope it stays dry over the weekend!