Spring Cleaning … Wash Your Car

Washing your car isn’t just about keeping it “looking and pretty,” although that’s a perk. Keeping your car clean can prevent auto body rust, keep parts for corroding and wearing out early, and can, dull your paint finish. Spring flowers and plants produce pollen, trees begin producing sap, and the bugs are out. Pollen, tree sap and bug splatter can also quickly ruin your car’s paint job.

When washing your car, we suggest the following:

• Rinse your car thoroughly before using any cloth or brush which can scratch the surface
• It’s a good idea to rinse off the underneath of your car often.
• Use three buckets of water. One with your cleaner and water, one to rinse your sponge in, and the third specifically for your tires and wheels.
• Use clean water to wash your car. Replace the water often if you find it getting dirty.
• Start washing from the top down. This allows fine particles to run off the car quickly.
• Wash your tires and wheels last. They hold a lot of grease and grime. You don’t want to have your sponge or cloth full of contaminants that can scratch your paint or dull the surface.
• Wash your headlights well. They can become scratched and yellow over time, and washing them regularly can help keep them clear bright longer.

Once you’ve washed your car, apply a coat of wax, and a finish UV protector coat. It will help keep your car looking new, and protect it from harmful UV rays that can dull the shine and destroy the factory clear coat.

Don’t forget, since you’re cleaning, your car’s air filter collects more airborne particles, causing your car to become less efficient. It’s a good idea to clean or replace your air filter often to allow your car’s engine to breath.