Keep It Clean

Keeping your car clean inside and out not only makes it look good but also has a bearing on its value, and will enable you to notice areas that need attention before they get too bad. Underneath all that winter grime you might find chip and scratches and even patches of rust that, if left untreated, could become serious.

A thorough wash is a good place to start. Washing the outside of your car is best done with cool water and a special car shampoo using either a soft sponge or a wash mit designed for the purpose. You could use normal household washing-up liquid – lots of people do – but it may have a more abrasive effect on the paintwork. Start with the roof and work your way down so that any drips are going onto bits you haven’t already cleaned. Rinse the shampoo off with clean water afterwards.

Perfectionists would say that you should dry the car, too, to avoid watermarks and smears, and if you decide to do this, a towel or chamois leather is best. While you’re cleaning, keep an eye out for any scratches or chips on the bodywork or windows that might need treating.

Once you’ve washed (and dried) the outside of the car, you can apply a car wax to give it an extra shine. The approach is the same as polishing shoes: you apply it using a damp cloth or sponge, then take it off using a towel before buffing it up with a chamois leather. You should aim to wash your car about once a fortnight and polish it every couple of months.

Next, check your tyres: the tread should be at least 1.6mm and the pressure should be as recommended by the manufacturer. Don’t forget to check your spare tyre, too.

After that’s finished, you can move on to the inside of your car. It’s best to do this on a dry day so that you can open all the doors and windows and allow the inside to dry in the fresh air. First, clear out all the rubbish from the floor, seats and ashtrays. Pull out all the mats and shake them thoroughly outside, then vacuum the floor and the seats – and the mats.

Any stains on the seats can be treated with carpet cleaner or stain remover; the inside of the doors, the dashboard and other vinyl areas are best cleaned with a damp rag. Don’t forget to clean the insides of the windows, too, using window cleaner to avoid smears.

With a bit of care and attention from you and car insurance from us, you’re all set for another year of enjoyable driving.