Thorough car cleaning should always be on your list of things to do while caring for it. It needs tender, loving care inside and out. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your car sparkling clean and ready for the sunny days ahead. 

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies:

• Car wash soap
• Buckets and sponges
• Microfiber towels
• Vacuum cleaner
• Interior cleaner and protectant
• Glass cleaner
• Tire cleaner and shine
• Wax and polish

2. Exterior Wash

Start with a complete exterior wash to remove dirt, grime, and road salt accumulated over the winter.

• Begin by rinsing the car with water to loosen and remove loose dirt.
• Use car wash soap and a sponge to thoroughly clean the exterior. Avoid using dish soap, as it can strip away protective wax.
• Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn dirt, such as the wheels and lower body panels.
• Rinse off all the soap with clean water.
• Lastly, a microfiber towel is used to dry the car, preventing water spots.

3. Clean the Wheels and Tires

Your wheels and tyres usually take a beating during winter, so give them a special treatment.

• Firstly, use a dedicated wheel cleaner to remove brake dust and grime. A wheel brush can help reach tight spots.
• Then, thoroughly rinse off the cleaner.
• Apply a tyre shine product to give your tyres a polished look.

4. Polish and Wax

Polishing and waxing protect your car’s paint and give it a brilliant shine.

• To begin this step, use a polishing compound to remove minor scratches and swirl marks.
• Then, apply quality car wax to protect the paint and enhance shine. Follow the product instructions for the best results. 

5. Interior Cleaning

Now it’s time to tackle the interior, making it as fresh and clean as the exterior.

• Start by removing all trash and clutter from the car.
• Use a vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Remember to vacuum under the seats and in crevices.
• Clean seats and upholstery with the appropriate cleaners. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner and conditioner. For fabric seats, use a fabric cleaner.
• Wipe down the dashboard, centre console, and other surfaces with an interior cleaner. Always use a protectant to keep them looking new and to protect against UV damage.
• Clean the inside of the windows with a glass cleaner to remove smudges and streaks. One’s glass has to look clear.

6. Detailing the Small Areas

Don’t overlook the small details that make a big difference, like the air vents, cup holders, and storage compartments.

For the air vents, a small brush or a can of compressed air can be used to clean dust. Don’t forget to wipe down the door jambs to remove dirt and grease.

7. Replace Filters

We suggest you replace your car’s air and cabin filters. These filters can become clogged with debris, reducing air quality and performance.

A replaced air filter will always give you fresh air inside your vehicle. 

8. Check Fluids and Tires

Lastly, ensure your car is in good working order by checking fluid levels and tyre condition.

• Check the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels, topping off or replacing as needed.
• Inspect your tyres for tread wear and proper inflation. Rotate the tyres if necessary.

Conclusion

Spring cleaning your car is a rewarding process that improves its appearance and ensures it runs smoothly and efficiently. We’re giving you this step-by-step guide as a bonus so you can enjoy a clean, fresh vehicle ready to take on the road. We’re always here to help with all your car maintenance needs. Schedule a visit today and let our expert technicians keep your vehicle in top shape!