Spring Cleaning (That Includes Your Cars)

Spring has long been associated with cleaning and de-cluttering. It’s a tradition which sees people getting their homes in order to ring in the new season. But this custom shouldn’t solely apply to your house. The odds are, your car could do with a bit of a spring clean too.

Most drivers will spend over an hour a day in their car. This frequent usage means that a build-up of dirt and rubbish is inevitable over time. Here are some tips to have your car looking as spick-and-span as your home this spring.

1. Clean your car’s console

Wipe the console using a damp cloth and make sure to clean the cup holders too. Just be careful not to touch the electrical connections that might not respond well to moisture.

2. Clean your windows and mirrors

Your windows might have accumulated dirt, dust and debris over the harsh winter season. They also tend to be smeared by hands after spending so long rolled up to keep the cold away. So, make sure to clean your windows inside and out. Don’t forget your mirrors too, as they are crucial to your road safety.

3. Clean your carpet

Carpets tend to gather dirt quickly, so it’s essential that they are cleaned regularly if you want to practice good car hygiene. Use a vacuum first to collect crumbs, dust or rubbish. Once this is done, use a cleaning solution to remove any leftover stains. Use a damp cloth to clean the seats of your car, too.

4. Check the windshield wipers

Don’t wait ‘til the rainy season to realise that your windshield wipers are broken. Double check to make sure they’re still in working order. If not, replace them. Check out our blog on DIY car fixes for instructions.

5. Remove the junk in the trunk

Out of sight, out of mind – right? Wrong. We tend to ignore the stuff that accumulates in our boot because we don’t have to look at it all of the time. But too much excess junk can actually impact the weight of your car, which can subsequently affect your fuel consumption and driving. Get rid of any unnecessary items and use a vacuum to collect any leftover dirt. While you’re at it, make sure to check that the spare tyre is inflated properly.

6. Check the exterior

Whether you realise it or not, your car more than likely exposed itself to very harsh weather conditions over the winter. Treat it to a thorough wash as we enter the spring season.

You have two options. The first is to hire a professional and have your car looking clean and pristine in no time. You can even follow up with a wax treatment if you really want to splurge. If you want to save some coin, there’s no reason you can’t tackle it yourself. All you need is a soft sponge and some mild car detergent. Use circular motions to lift any dirt or grime from its surface. When you’re finished, rinse your car thoroughly and wipe it down with a non-abrasive towel.

7. Check the engine

The engine is the powerhouse of your car, so don’t neglect it. What many car owners don’t realise is that engines also need cleaning. Pop the bonnet and inspect yours. If you can access it easily, use a cloth to remove any excess grease or grime. If you’re unsure about how to do this properly, it’s best to have it professionally cleaned.

8. Scrub up your headlights

Faulty headlights can cause major problems. Make sure yours are in good shape by scrubbing them with a microfiber cloth and some tooth paste. If your headlights need some serious TLC, have them sanded and polished instead.

10. Complete your car’s maintenance check

Now is the time to make sure you’re up to date on your car maintenance schedule. If there are any early signs of a problem developing, nip it in the bud if you can. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Are my tyres inflated properly?

Do my wipers need replacing?

When was the last time I changed my oil and filters?

For more on this, check out our blog on maintenance checks you should never neglect.

Considering that your car is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, it’s important to show it some love from time to time by giving it a deep clean. Not only does it keep your car looking good, but it also makes for a more pleasant and comfortable driving experience for you and your passengers.

Need a car upgrade this spring? Look no further than Motor Matcher.

Here at Motor Matcher, we help people like you make informed decisions when buying and selling cars online. We offer a faster and simpler way of browsing and comparing both new and used cars from the comfort of your own home. Everything we do is modelled around providing customers with the right tools and empowering them with the right information. We provide a safe and secure marketplace for all car buyers and sellers to conduct business.

Check us out at www.motormatcher.com.au and find your dream car today.