How to Get Your Vehicle Ready for a Judged Car Show

Published by Greg Hoffman

If you’ve ever watched judges circle your vehicle with clipboards and serious faces, you’ve probably wondered what they’re looking for. It really comes down to condition, quality, and workmanship.

The Gulf Coast Regional Mustang Club uses experienced judges who look at every entry fairly. Our shows aren’t national-level competitions where every nut and bolt has to be original. We simply want vehicles that are clean, well-presented, and cared for. Just remember, you’re being judged alongside other owners who also put time and pride into their rides.

A Word About Trophies

At most shows, there are far more vehicles than trophies. Many great builds and beautiful rides will head home without an award. And that’s perfectly okay. You still spent the day sharing your passion, meeting people who love the same things you do, and helping a local charity. That’s a win in itself.

Trophies are nice, but they’re not the reason most of us show up. We do this because we enjoy the community, the craftsmanship, and the stories behind every car, truck, and motorcycle on the lot. Respect the effort others put into their rides and show good sportsmanship.

If you ever feel disappointed about not taking home a trophy, remember that you already earned something more lasting: the experience, the friendships, and the pride of being part of the scene.

Judging Sheet

The judging sheet breaks everything into categories: paint and body, exterior details, interior, engine compartment, and overall presentation. Each section carries weight, and together they show the full picture of how much care and pride you put into your vehicle.

The tips below follow those same categories, so you can understand how the judges score. When you know what they’re looking for, you can prepare your ride with confidence and enjoy the experience even more.

Paint and Body

Judges look at paint or wrap, panel alignment, and overall cleanliness. Chips, scratches, and dull paint will cost points. Before the show, wash and dry everything carefully. Use a quick detail spray to give the finish a deep shine.

Tips:

Polish paint and chrome surfaces.
Check for swirl marks in sunlight.
Wipe the door jambs, trunk edges, and hood seams. They notice those.

Exterior Details

This covers wheels, tires, trim, and accessories. Wheels should sparkle. Tires should look clean but not greasy. Trim and accents should be even and secure. If you’ve added any custom parts, ensure they look intentional and fit your vehicle’s style.

Tips:

Clean wheels inside and out.
Dress tires lightly and wipe off extra shine.
Use glass cleaner on mirrors, lights, and chrome.

Interior Cleanup

Seats, carpet, dash, and console all count. The interior should be spotless and well-kept. Vacuum every surface and wipe everything down. If your vehicle has a convertible top, keep it clean and follow the rule: top up, windows halfway up.

Tips:

Clean vents, cup holders, and display screens.
Remove clutter like cords, sunglasses, and trash.
Condition leather or vinyl the day before, not the morning of.

Engine Compartment

This is where attention to detail really shows. Judges look for a clean firewall, tidy wiring, and a well-maintained engine bay. You don’t need to chrome every bolt, but you should ensure everything looks cared for.

Tips:

Degrease the bay a few days before the show.
Dry everything and apply a light protectant.
Avoid dripping cleaners or puddles of shine.

Bonus Points

You can earn extra points for going above and beyond. That might mean an OEM-level restoration, a detailed custom build, or a creative presentation. Displays with photos or stories about your vehicle help tell the bigger picture.

Tips:

Add a small sign or display board with your story or build highlights.
Add a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit to your trunk.
Keep props minimal and clean.
Let the vehicle be the main attraction.

Final Checklist

Right before judging starts:

Convertible tops up
Windows halfway up
Trunk open
Hood open

Have a towel handy for a last-minute wipe down. A clean, well-prepared vehicle always stands out, and judges can tell when someone takes pride in their work.