Spring Clean the Car
Spring cleaning isn't just for your home. Your office, your yard, even your car could do with a renewal. Your car could use a good cleaning inside and out, as well as a check on the engine and general functions. Spring cleaning for your car can really make a difference in how it feels and runs after a long winter of dirt and grime build-up, so include it on your list of things to spring clean along with the nooks and crannies of your home. Get your car in on the spring cleaning action by following the simple tips below:
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Tip #1: Clean it out.
Take some time to empty your car completely. Take everything out of the trunk, glove compartment, seat pockets, and other compartments. While everything is out, clean the interior of your car vigorously. A simple wipe down of the dash board and a little vacuuming won't do the trick, scrub down every hard surface and vacuum and shampoo all the soft services including your trunk. Get that new car smell back by spraying your car's carpet and upholstery with Scotchgaurd or another stain-prevention liquid.
Tip #2: Organize it.
Go through the things you took out of your car and throw away or take inside what doesn't belong in it. If there are things you've been meaning to put in your car like a first aid kit, or a seventy-two hour kit, now would be the time to find homes for them. Get your stuff organized. If something was a mess before, like garbage on the floor, find a storage or organizational solution that works for you, like a garbage can designed for your car. There are all sorts of organization solutions available for your car, so figure out how you want it to function and get the solutions that will work for you.
Tip #3: The Outside Job.
Once the inside is looking like new, get the outside the same way. Give it a good wash, then go the extra mile and get it buffed and waxed. Get a tire care product and apply it to your wheels to take away the worn look. If there are problems you've been waiting to fix, like a broken light, now is the time to fix them (inside and out). Get your car back in shape and looking great on the outside. This would also be a good time to check your tire pressure and make sure things are in order there. Proper tire pressure means better gas mileage and more control over your vehicle. Also, if it is time to get your tires rotated, take your car in and get it done.
Tip #4: Engine maintenance.
Winter is not nice to cars, so a good clean of your engine is in order. Check your fluids and get them topped off, take a look at your oil and if it's dirty, get it changed. Replace your air filter. Take a look at your spark plugs and fuses and make sure none of them are showing signs or wear. Turn your car on and check that the lights and blinkers are all working. If any are not, get them replaced. Take your car in for a tune-up to get it running at the top of its game.
