The Easy Guide to A Good Car Spring Clean

• Tips/Guides-Tips/Guides

Although the dusty, windy days of winter have passed, what’s left behind is a layer of dirt and dust in every nook and cranny of your car. And while the local car wash service does a tremendous job of giving it a good spring cleaning, there’s no reason why a budget-conscious car owner can’t roll up their sleeves and do a decent job of it while burning off a few calories too.

Some cars may have specific cleaning products and instructions which you should stick to, but for the most part, this is a universal method that should work for most vehicles without causing damage.

All it takes is some basic equipment, soap and water, and a good amount of elbow grease. So put your favourite tunes on and let’s get cracking!

Equipment

• Vacuum cleaner
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Microfibre cloths
• Car wash solution
• White spirit vinegar
• Water (warm to hot)
• Spray bottle
• Toothbrush to get into small corners
• Soft brush for upholstery

Method

Tip: Work out of direct sunlight.

Interior

Before beginning, remove all the stuff you’ve accumulated over the winter from pockets, floor, and cubby hole.

1. Windows and mirrors – Spray diluted vinegar onto a clean cloth and rub over glass surfaces. Use a clean dry microfibre cloth to polish dry.
2. Console – Wipe carefully with a cloth and warm water and dry thoroughly.
3. Seats and upholstery
1. Vacuum thoroughly by sliding the seats and adjusting the backrest backwards and forwards to get into inner areas, and then vacuum under the seats front and behind.
2. For dirty spots, wash upholstery with a soft brush and hot water only.
4. Floor mats – Hose off or vacuum mats and the floor underneath.
5. Boot – Declutter and vacuum

Exterior

1. Wash – Start from the roof and work down using clean warm soapy water and a sponge over the entire surface.
2. Dry – Use a clean microfibre cloth for the paintwork and glass cloth for the windows
3. Wax & polish – Pour small amounts onto a clean dry cloth and work in small patches, polishing as you go.
4. Wheels
1. Remove and wash hubcaps.
2. Wash the wheels and tyres and use a tyre polish for a good-as-new look.

Under the bonnet

Pick out any debris sitting there such as leaves and twigs.

Wipe down the surfaces of the components with a slightly damp cloth.

Now your car is clean and ready to go on your summer holiday trip. Just be sure to  check your tyres and the spare wheel as well – you can pop in to your nearest Supa Quick for a free vehicle safety check a few weeks before you go.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational or informational purposes only. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of this information. Views expressed in this article are of the author and not necessarily the views of Supa Quick.