A car show isn't just any meet. There are judges, awards and lots of people looking closely. This guide helps you prepare your car for a car show in Puerto Rico, from cleaning to setting up your spot.
A week before: registration and rules
Before you touch a sponge, read the event page. Every show has its own format, classes and rules. Confirm:
- Whether there's registration and how much it costs.
- The available classes.
- How awards work, for example Top 30 or Top 50.
- Arrival time for exhibitors, usually before the public.
- Venue rules.
One example with published details is El Gran Junte Car Show 2 in Toa Alta on Nov. 22. Its page lists a Top 30 and competition by class: $30 per team, club or crew and $10 per individual per class. Rules: no coolers, moderate car audio and no 2-step.
Prepare your car by zone
Exterior
- Use the two-bucket wash to avoid scratches.
- Clay bar the paint if it feels rough.
- Finish with wax or sealant.
- Clean glass inside and out.
- Don't forget door jambs and the trunk edge.
Tires and wheels
- Clean the wheel barrels, not just the faces.
- Apply tire dressing without overdoing it.
- Check pressure. A car that sits right looks better.
Engine
- Clean it cold and protect the electrics.
- Check for leaks. A puddle under the car looks bad.
- If you show with the hood open, the engine is the star.
Interior and trunk
- Vacuum carpets and seats.
- Remove personal items: papers, cables, bottles.
- Clean the dash without leaving it greasy.
The day before
Fill the tank and check the battery. Pack a bag with microfiber towels, quick detailer, glass cleaner, a chair, water, sunscreen, an optional info card about the car, plus cash and ATH Móvil.
On arrival: set up your spot
- Arrive when the organizers ask.
- Follow parking instructions; don't pick your own spot if staff are assigning.
- Wipe off road dust.
- Decide what to open: hood, doors or trunk.
- Keep your area clean all afternoon.
During the show
Stay near the car when judges come by and explain your work if asked. Be friendly with the public. If someone touches the car, politely ask them not to. Follow show rules; many ask for no 2-step and moderate bass. See car meet rules in Puerto Rico.
Shows with pages this month
- Anticipo Navideño – The Show: Sunday, Nov. 15 from 10:00 a.m. at La Nueva Cantera El 24, Caguas. Free. Hosted by Caguas Classic Cars.
- La Kennedy Street Fest: Sunday, Nov. 15, 2:00–9:00 p.m. on La Kennedy, San Juan. Top 50 and Top 25 awards. Via @elfiebru12.
- El Gran Junte Car Show 2: Sunday, Nov. 22, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. at Hacienda El Negro, Toa Alta.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take?
It depends on the car. Spread the work over several days so you're not rushing the night before.
Do I need a modified car to show?
Not always. Read each show's classes: there are classic, brand and all-car shows.
What should I bring?
See our car meet checklist. Almost everything applies.
Hosting a car show? Advertise with Puerto Rico Racing. Find more shows on events.