What on earth is that bright thing in the sky? That's what I normally ask myself after a miserable winter here in the UK when I've completely forgotten what the sun looks like.
Spring is a time of great optimism, and everyone is looking forward to summer. While everyone spring cleans their house, don't forget to give your car some TLC.
After a long winter, your vehicle can massively benefit from a thorough cleaning and maintenance check.
To simplify the process, we'll run you through the importance of spring cleaning your car, our spring cleaning checklist, and how to combine spring cleaning with car maintenance.
We discuss:
Spring is the perfect time to dust off your cleaning supplies. The better weather makes it much easier, and spring cleaning your car can increase your vehicle's lifespan and help maintain its value.
According to a survey conducted by Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, a well-maintained car can have a resale value up to 15% higher than a neglected car. Crucial as you come to the end of your lease contract.
In addition, a dirty car can harbour harmful bacteria and allergens, affecting the air quality inside your vehicle.
The exterior of your car takes a beating during the winter months, with loads of salt, dirt, and grime accumulating. Washing and waxing your car can help protect its paint and maintain its appearance, and window cleaning can help improve your safety on the road.
Here's our spring cleaning tips for your car exterior:
- Rinse your car thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
- Use a car wash soap, a clean sponge, or a mitt to clean the surface.
- Clean the windows with a glass cleaner and microfibre cloth.
- Apply wax to protect your car's paint from damage.
- Clean the wheels and tyres with a dedicated cleaner and soft-bristled brush.
Begin by removing all rubbish and belongings from the car. Get the vacuum cleaner out to remove dirt and debris from the seats, carpets, and floor mats.
Remember to look under the seats and other hard-to-reach areas, and if needed, use attachments on your vacuum to get into nooks and crannies.
Before cleaning any upholstery or carpets, check the vehicle's handbook for the manufacturer's instructions. Test any product in a small corner before applying it to the whole car.
For cloth interiors, use a fabric cleaner and work it in with a soft brush. For leather, use a specialised leather cleaner and conditioner to keep it soft.
The dashboard is the area of the car you touch the most, so it's essential it's clean. Dust and clean the dash with a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner.
Be careful around buttons and knobs to ensure you don't break them. If needed, use cotton swabs to get into hard-to-reach places.
Engine cleaning can be daunting. If you don't know what everything is, it can be an intimidating task. However, cleaning your engine is essential for maintaining your car's performance.
Before cleaning, ensure your engine is cool, remove large debris by hand, and lightly spray with water (avoid electrical components). Then, wipe clean with a microfibre cloth.
Spring cleaning your car is also a good time to perform regular maintenance checks to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here are our best car maintenance tips:
- Check and replace windshield wipers if they are worn or damaged.
- Inspect your tyres and brakes for signs of wear and tear.
- Replace your air filters and fluids according to your vehicle's recommended schedule.
Once you've thoroughly cleaned your car, you must keep it in tip-top condition. Here are some tips for keeping your car clean that will make it stand out during summer:
- Create a regular cleaning schedule.
- Invest in protective equipment, such as seat covers or floor mats.
- Avoid common mistakes that can cause damage, such as parking under trees or using harsh chemicals to clean your car.
Spring cleaning your car can be a satisfying project that improves the appearance and comfort of your vehicle and helps maintain its value and functionality.
By following our DIY car care tips, you can give your car the care and attention it deserves.
However, don't forget to schedule regular maintenance checks and invest in protective accessories to keep your car looking brand new.
Looking for more car maintenance advice? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has produced various car maintenance guides, including How to Treat & Prevent Vehicle Rust Damage and Tips on Keeping Your Vehicle Secure.
We are also one of the UK's largest leasing brokers, offering a range of leasing deals to suit your every need. We provide various services, such as our Fast Lease Service and Used Car Leasing Service.
