Your car needs to be maintained properly in order to keep it looking fresh and clean. Even if you own a new modern car, you still have to do a few simple tricks so that you can avoid costly and untimely repairs. But while it doesn’t take a mechanic to take good care of your car, you can do some basic routines to avoid a day at the repair shop.
Washing your car regularly
Note that dirt, grime, and pollutants can damage your car’s paint if you leave them for too long. That is why you have to wash your car at least every other week to keep your car looking new. Another thing is that you need to protect the paint of your car by using quality products. But you have to avoid using dish soap or household cleaners because they can strip the wax and damage the paint of your vehicle.
Waxing or sealing the paint
It is also important that you apply wax or paint sealant to protect your car’s surface. This will help keep away dirt, water, and UV radiation. Thus, it can keep the paint shiny and reduce the risk of fading. On the other hand, you can use ceramic coating to provide longer-lasting protection. Although this is a more expensive solution, it still provides a durable, glossy finish that will last for years.
Detailing to protect the paint
One of the things that many car owners fail to consider is the importance of detailing. This can be done with the use of a clay bar treatment every few months. Note that regular washing may not be able to remove embedded contaminants. So, you have to keep the surface smooth and help wax bond well with this method.
Polishing is also a good way to remove light scratches and restore its glossy finish. Do this by hand or with a machine polisher, depending on what you are comfortable with. However, you can apply a transparent paint protection film in high-wear areas like the bumper, door edges, and hood. This can help a lot in protecting the surface against chips, scratches, and UV damage.
Keeping the interior looking fresh
You need to vacuum the seats, floor mats, and crevices every week in order to remove crumbs, dirt, and dust. In addition, you have to wipe down surfaces with a microfibre cloth and an interior cleaner. This will prevent the buildup of dust and grime in the centre console, dashboard, and door panels. Moreover, you have to keep the leather seats free from fading and cracking with the use of a leather conditioner every few months.
Using car window shades can also help keep the interiors looking new by blocking or reducing the amount of sunlight that enters the vehicle. Fitted car shades also keep the car’s interior cooler and protect it from the UV rays that will damage the upholstery, dashboard, and other surfaces over time.
