Auto shows offer car enthusiasts an exciting place to check out rare and beautiful vehicles and even display their own. If you’re considering participating in a car show, you want your prized possession to be a star that will draw admirers. Luckily, a few key steps will help. Here’s a look at what to do—and what to avoid.

Do:

Detail your car.

Make sure your car is thoroughly cleaned and detailed before the auto show. Your vehicle’s components should gleam, which will attract more traffic to your spot. Cleaning efforts should also extend to the inside until every detail and corner is purged of dust or grit.

If you drive your car to the event, be ready to wipe off any grass, dust, or dirt that will inevitably get on surfaces with your washing supplies, such as a gentle cloth and clean water.

Care for the body.

If the vehicle has any damage, even minor dings, handle it before the car show. Bring it to your trusted auto body shop to make any fixes necessary, and give yourself enough time so that sanding and repainting can be done and set well before your presentation.

Consider display materials.

You may want to have display stands or printed materials with information about your car. Brochures, manuals, and other details can help visitors better appreciate what you have and the love you’ve poured into it.

Don’t:

Keep the windows and hood closed.

Open up your windows and let guests take a look at the inside. Also, consider keeping the hood open so enthusiasts can appreciate all that horsepower. Just make sure the engine is clean and maintained before displaying it.

Skimp on details.

Every part of your car is vital at an auto show, even the smallest details. Take a look at the grill, mirrors, lights, upholstery, and more to ensure you have an eye-catching package that’s clean and perfect for the style of your car. Consider the color as well, and opt for a paint job in advance to spruce it up.

Forget the wheels.

The wheels are critical for your presentation. Change out tires that have worn-down treads and damage. Clean each wheel with a stiff brush and a spray bottle, and once clean, apply tire spray in a circular motion for a shiny finish.

Charlotte AutoFair has offered car enthusiasts in North Carolina a place to display their vehicles and network with others who share a love for vintage cars for more than 30 years. The biannual auto show boasts 150 acres for their thousands of guests. The event gives car collectors, sellers, and other guests a place to show off their restored classics as well as other automotive products. For more on the car exhibit, visit their website. Call the car show organizers at (704) 841-1990 to reserve your slot.