Body
The condition of your car's body is very important because it has a large impact on its resale value. It is much more difficult to repair a run down or damaged bodywork than mechanical parts. Body cavities such as the wheel wells, frame and engine bay are just as important, even though they don't require as much attention as the rest of the bodywork.
Once a year, or every 20,000 km, it is very useful to clean the underbody with steam. All traces of dirt and oil will be removed and the area can then be inspected for rust, damaged brake lines, frayed electrical wires, damaged cables, and so on. At the end of this work, the front suspension components should be lubricated.
At the same time, clean the engine and engine compartment with a steam cleaner or grease remover.
Particular attention must be paid to the wheel wells as the backing may peel off and stones and dirt thrown from the wheels may damage the paint and allow rust to form. If you find rust, clean the damaged surface down to the metal and apply anti-corrosion paint to it.
The body must be washed at least once a week. Wet the vehicle thoroughly to soften the dirt, then wash it off with a soft sponge and plenty of soapy water. If the dirt is not thoroughly washed off, it can wear off the paint.
Tar or bitumen stains must be cleaned with a cloth soaked in solvent.
At least every six months, polish the bodywork and chrome parts. If you use a chrome cleaner to remove rust from electroplated parts, remember that the cleaner also removes chrome tarnish, so use it with care.
Vinyl finish
Never clean vinyl trim with detergents, caustic soaps, or kerosene-based cleaners. Simple soap and water work just fine, and a soft brush can easily remove stubborn grime. Wash your vinyl trim as often as you clean your entire car.
After cleaning, the use of high quality rubber and vinyl protectors will help prevent oxidation and cracking. The protective agent can also be applied to glass seals, vacuum lines and rubber hoses, which often fail due to chemical degradation, as well as tires.
Upholstery and rugs
Every three months, you should remove the floor mats and clean the inside of the car (if necessary, do it more often). Vacuum upholstery and rugs to remove any remaining dirt and dust.
Leather upholstery requires special attention. Stains should be removed with warm water and a very mild soap solution. Use a clean cloth to remove the soap and then wipe the upholstery again with a dry cloth. Never use alcohol, benzene, nail polish remover or thinner to clean leather upholstery.
After cleaning, treat the leather upholstery regularly with special wax. Never use car wax to polish leather upholstery.
Where the car's interior is exposed to sunlight, cover the leather seats with sheets if the car is left in the sun for any length of time.
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