Spring is here and with it comes copious amounts of pollen. While it can be tempting to wait to clean your car until after pollen season passes, you still address the winter battering your ride took. The following checklist covers five areas that need your attention now.
1. Get rid of road salt:
Salt and other deicing agents can be very damaging to your car’s paint, so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible. Focus on the undercarriage, the area of your vehicle where salt accumulates.
Begin by parking your car in a safe and suitable location away from other vehicles and your house. The area should supply ample drainage as well.
Next, remove loose debris by using a long-handled brush or high-pressure air hose. Apply a degreaser and allow to sit for several minutes. Then, use a high-pressure washer to clean the undercarriage.
Finally, use an air compressor to dry underneath. A towel can also be useful for drying more exposed areas.
2. Wash and wax the car:
A thorough wash and wax will not only make your car look shiny and new, but it will also protect the paint from the elements.
First, gather the necessary supplies: Car wash soap, bucket, sponge or wash mitt, hose, and drying towels.
Second, rinse the car with water from the hose to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Third, fill a bucket with water and add car wash soap according to the instructions on the bottle.
Fourth, use the sponge or wash mitt to apply the soapy water to the car, starting from the top and working your way down. Be sure to thoroughly wash each section before moving on to the next one.
Fifth, rinse the car with water from the hose again to remove all the soap.
Sixth, dry the car with a clean and absorbent towel, starting from the top and working your way down.
3. Replace the wiper blades:
Over time, wiper blades can become worn and ineffective. Spring is a good time to replace them, so you’re ready for those April showers. There are several types of wiper blades, including conventional blades, beam blades, and hybrid blades. Conventional blades are the traditional type of wiper blade, while beam and hybrid blades are designed for better performance and durability.
4. Inspect the tires:
Check your tires for signs of wear and tear, including uneven wear patterns, cracks, and bulges. Don’t forget to check the tire pressure too, as fluctuations in temperature can cause it to drop. Finally, inspect the spare tire to ensure that it has sufficient air and is ready for emergency duty.
5. Clean the cabin:
Don’t forget to clean the inside of your car too!
First, begin by removing any trash, food wrappers, and other debris from the interior of the car, including the trunk or cargo area.
Second, use a vacuum cleaner to clean the seats, floor mats, and carpeting. Be sure to get into the crevices and tight spaces around the seats, dashboard, and center console.
Third, use a damp microfiber cloth or a dashboard cleaner to wipe down the dashboard and center console. Be careful not to use too much water, as it can damage electronics.
Fourth, use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the windows and mirrors. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the tint on some windows.
Fifth, use a damp cloth to clean the door panels and handles. If there are any stains or marks, use a mild cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub them away.
Sixth, use an upholstery cleaner or leather cleaner to clean the seats. Follow the instructions on the cleaner, and be sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Finally, vacuum the trunk or cargo area, and wipe down any surfaces with a damp cloth or all-purpose cleaner.
Getting Cleaning Done
By setting aside just a few hours you can get your spring cleaning accomplished. That’s a great start to taking care of your vehicle’s aesthetics and then following up by handling maintenance items.
See Also — How to Choose the Ideal Window Tint for Your Car
Photo Attribution
Image by VintageBlue from Pixabay
Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay
Image by Sleepi Alleyne from Pexels
Image by autowelt_2014 from Pixabay
