Motorists have been urged to follow three spring cleaning tips that can help to avoid expensive repair bills and improve the value of their car.
Whilst it is almost inevitable that cars fall in value over time, there are a number of ways drivers can help to get the best possible price when they put it onto the used market. In particular, the used car marketplace Motorway urged all drivers to make sure they give their car a thorough wash to get any winter salt off the bodywork.
They advised: “The winter weather can be tough on your car, leaving behind damage that goes beyond the usual seasonal wear and tear. Salt and grit, in particular, are incredibly corrosive and de-icer can cause lasting damage if used excessively or on areas like rubber seals.
“Start by rinsing off any loose dirt, then wash from top to bottom with a car-specific soap, rinsing each section as you go to avoid soap drying on the paint. Finally, dry the car with a microfiber towel to prevent marks and preserve the paintwork, as this will help maintain your car’s value over time.”
Whilst the salt and grit that is spread on the roads during cold winter nights plays a pivotal role in keeping all road users safe, the substances can have particularly damaging effects on cars that are not properly cleaned.
In particular, if any salt reaches damaged sections of the bodywork, which feature exposed metal, the vehicle could very quickly rust. Whilst this will initially require the section to be resprayed, drivers who leave the rust to spread could find that their vehicle needs serious welding to remain on the roads.
As a result, it is a good idea for drivers to wash their vehicle at least once a month, using a hose pipe to rinse any loose dirt before applying a specialist car shampoo and rinsing it off with fresh water.
Similarly, Motorway noted that drivers can improve their vehicle’s value by using baking soda to remove any stubborn stains inside.
They added: “You don’t have to spend a lot of money to keep your car smelling good. Chances are you may have everything you need in your kitchen cupboard.
“Sprinkle baking soda on your seats, carpets, and mats and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before vacuuming it up – it should keep your car smelling fresh for weeks.”
Finally, the company shared an unconventional yet surprisingly effective way of removing unsightly pet hair from the seats using a damp rubber glove.
They continued: “Tired of pet hair all over your car? Put on a slightly damp rubber glove (like the kind you use for washing dishes) and run your hand over the seats, carpets, and mats.
“The rubber creates static that pulls pet hair right off the surface, making it super easy to gather and remove. It works on both fabric and leather, leaving your car clean and hair-free!”