SWEAT EQUITY: CLEANING UP PAYS OFF

SWEAT EQUITY: CLEANING UP PAYS OFF

MAINTAINING YOUR CAR'S appearance is a big part of optimizing its real value,and the more elbow grease you're willing to invest.the less money you'll need to pay someone to do it.Here are some tips to help you:
Wash often.Use a soap designed for cars,since it is less likely to strip wax.
wash in cool shade or when it's overcast;the surface should be cool so that it doesn't dry quickly.Work in sections,to keep the soap from drying before you rinse.Use a chamois or microfiber cloth to prevent scratching when drying.
Wipe your wipers.Use window cleaner to keep your windshield wipers clean and keep them tight against your windshield.Replace the wipers twice a year.
Polish periodically.Wax your car a few times a year,especially in the soring and fall,to protect the paint from the sun and elements.Liquid and paste car waxes are more durable and clean better than spray products,but that require more effort.Some inexpensive waxes,notably by turtle wax and black magic,perform as well or better in our test as the pricey ones favored by enthusiasts,but preventing streaks might require some effort.Make sure the polish you use is safe for clear coat finishes.now found on most cars.
CLEAN YOUR WHEELS.gently remove brake dust and tar by using a dedicated wheel cleaner ans sponge.Use a cleaner that's labeled safe for use on all wheels.
RUB OUT SCRATCHES.Fine scratches can often be polish out.Scratch removers are effective,but some create hazing;we've found that that Quixx performs best.Try a remover in a hidden area first.Scratches that expose the primer or metal must be repainted.You can use touch-up paint,but a professional should give the best results.
TEND TO INSIDE DETAILS.Clearing trash and cleaning filmy windows tackles only part of the job.Less obvious task such as cleaning dusty air vents go a long way toward making your ride more pleasant.
Also clean buttons and switches because excessive grit can cause them to fail.An all-purpose household cleaner is all you need for hard surfaces;automotive vinyl cleaners leave a glossy residue that can create glare on top of the dashboard and make the steering wheel slippery.Use a cotton swab and a small paintbrush to clean in seams,vents,and other tight areas.
CLEAN YOUR FABRICS.Steam cleaners work best for carpets and cloth upholstery.
Otherwise,use a stiff brush to work a spray-on cleaner into the carpet or a soft bristled brush for seats and the trunk.
Don't soak the fabric,which can cause mildew.Leather surfaces need a dedicated leather cleaner.Fallow up with leather conditioner.Vacuum last,since cleaning other areas often dislodges dirt.
SCRUB UNDER THE HOOD.Wear gloves and eye protection,especially when working around the battery.Clean the battery with a stiff brush dipped in a mixture of water and baking soda,and pay special attention to corroded parts.wash engine parts with soap and water or a digressing cleaner.Keep water away from the air intake,fuse,box,cable junctions, and any electrical connections.
Those steps won't turn back the clock for your vehicle,but they'll make it more pleasant to drive and perhaps fetch you a better price when it comes time to sell.
consumer reports