There are those who would buy a car and just keep driving it until it needs some serious servicing. It may be hard to believe, but there are luxury car owners who would go a year without washing their car. Imagine doing that to your Civic or Golf, too. Keeping your car clean has several benefits, including the following:
- It stays looking like new for a much longer time.
- The resale value is higher on properly cared-for cars.
- It’s easier to spot blemishes on the paintwork before they get any worse.
- It saves you from thousands you might otherwise spend on repainting or restoring your vehicle to its former glory.
- Car thieves are less likely to victimise clean cars, as people who take good care of their cars are much more likely to spend money on advanced security features like pricey alarms, immobilisers and GPS tracking.
- Bragging rights. You simply feel great when you drive a shiny car.
With all that in mind, here’s how to keep your vehicle looking like new:
Mind where you park it.
Wherever you live, if you keep parking your car in an area where it’s exposed to the elements, you will soon find it looking old and dull. If you have a garage, use it. If you don’t have one, think about building one. You have no choice if your office doesn’t have a basement or roofed parking, but where you leave your car elsewhere is under your control. Parking it outside for a long time exposes it to UV rays, rain, snow, hail, bird droppings, tree sap, small wild animals, and vandals.
Have dents repaired professionally.
Ever seen a car dent repaired by its owner? It’s worse. Find South Auckland panelbeaters to take care of any dents and dings on your car. The sooner you take care of those unsightly spots, the better you’ll feel about keeping your car clean. The safer you’ll be too.
Wash your car regularly.
Once a week is a good schedule for washing your car. Avoid going to an automatic carwash and don’t use dish soap to wash your car. Use the right tools: a garden hose (a power washer if you have it), automotive soap that’s safe for your car’s clear coat, a microfibre wash mitt, microfibre drying towels, and a good wax or paint sealant. Seal or wax at least every four to six months, depending on your area’s weather. Use the two-bucket system when washing your vehicle.
These tips are easy enough to follow and they can keep your car looking like new for a longer time.