Just like your home, you can’t avoid maintenance if you want to keep your car looking its best. Since you spend a lot of time in your car, it makes sense to not only wash the exterior but also keep the interior tidy. At least once a year, give your car a thorough spring cleaning with these tips from DCH Millburn Audi.
Start with interior cleaning
Interior maintenance should include the following:
- Remove all trash. Look under the seats and other spots where you know you’ve been throwing “stuff.”
- Vacuum. Always start at the top and work your way down because gravity pulls dirt and pollen towards the floor. You’ll need hand attachments that can get into tiny spaces around the seats. Use a screwdriver or can of compressible air to dig dirt from hard to reach corners.
- Wash floor mats and carpet. Take out removable floor mats and wash them with soap, rinse and dry before replacing. If the carpeting and seats are dirty, use automotive carpet/upholstery cleaner and follow directions for application. Allergy sufferers will want to remove as much pollen as possible. Perform this task on a balmy day and keep the doors open to facilitate speedy drying.
- Clean the dashboard. Use a cleaner recommended for your car’s dashboard surface. Leather, plastic or other synthetics each require the appropriate cleaning method to keep them looking their best.
Wash the exterior including the tires
Take the time to spring clean your car on the outside instead of just running it through an automatic car wash. Either pick a cloudy day or perform this job in a shady spot to avoid streaking that occurs when metal and glass are heated by the sun.
- Chassis underside and tires. Use a strong hose spray or a power wash attachment to get under your car and in the front and back of your tires to remove accumulated dirt and any lingering salt buildup after winter driving.
- Exterior bath. Wash the outside of your car using only products designed for this purpose. Hand dry using soft, preferably natural-fiber cloths that are absorbent and that won’t scratch the paint. Wash and dry every nook and cranny including doorjambs and windows.
- Wash the tires. Tires also require special cleaners to protect the outer layer of rubber. This is also a good time to check the tread thickness and inflation levels on your tires.
- Wax for protection. The extra step of waxing not only gives your car a sparkling shine but also protects the finish that helps maintain resale value. Choose the type of wax that works best for you, either paste, liquid or spray. Though it’s always a good idea to experiment with any new waxing product on an inconspicuous spot first.
Other spring cleaning tips
Check the level of your window wiper fluid and the wipers for damage and/or wear and tear. Do a little spring cleaning under the hood by checking the battery terminals and removing any white build-up. All you’ll need is a damp cloth and toothbrush soaked in a little baking soda and water. (You should always wear eye protection when working inside the engine.)
Browse the aisle of any store that sells automotive products and you’ll be surprised what’s available to help you not only to maintenance your car but to also wash it from the inside out.
