Clean Everything Meticulously
Cleaning a car is more than just washing and waxing its exterior. Sadly, most people do not clean their car thoroughly enough which can cause rust and various mechanical issues. However, it isn’t just the mechanics you need to consider when you’re cleaning your car. Just like beauty, it’s what’s inside that counts, especially under the bonnet. The longer that you spend cleaning your car, the longer that you effectively spend inspecting it and finding issues that you can resolve cheaply and effectively, without the need for a mechanic.
Scrubbing Up the Insides
You may love the way that your car looks on the outside, but don’t forget that you’ll spend the majority of your time inside it. Small, simple changes can make the world of difference, and even a cheap new trim can vastly improve the interior if it is fitted well.
The dashboard in particular will suffer from wear and tear over a lengthy period of time and, as a result, it could hinder your ability to drive properly. If the dashboard pad is faded, consider repainting or dyeing it. After all, you’re going to spend a lot of time staring at it.
Finally, consider the seat fabrics as well as any mats or flooring fabrics. As you get in and out of the car constantly, the fabric or leather will rip and strain, wearing away over time. Simply changing the floor mats and even shampooing the seats could make all the difference.
Seal, Waterproof and Safeguard
On a rainy day, your car is a safe haven that protects you from the horrors of the outside world. However, over time the seal that surrounds your doors can wear away. In the short term, this will only cause limited problems and you may only notice a little bit of wind when you drive. But, as time passes by, these gaps will only grow, and rain will soon start to get in.
The rubber strips that you need for this task are incredibly cheap but, admittedly, the task of replacing them is time consuming and somewhat frustrating. It is, however, well worth it in the long run.
Repair Damaged Paintwork
When it comes to making your car look as beautiful as the day that it first left the production line, touch-up paint is your best friend. Scratches, scrapes and chips are all commonplace, no matter how careful your driving is.
But be wary of touching up the paint too often as your paintwork will become uneven and patchy (especially if you do not have an exact colour match). Use it sparingly and only when a scratch is noticeable. As a general rule of thumb, it is never as bad as it looks anyway.
Wheels and Tyres
Getting a higher level of performance from your tyres can be as easy as making sure that they’re correctly inflated. This may sound simple, but it is something many car owners forget, and their vehicles suffer as a result.
Your car’s tyres are central to its success, improving the handling, stopping distance and performance. Tyre maintenance is simple and constantly monitoring their tread and checking for punctures is the best way to prevent any accidents.
So, there we have it, simple ways that you can maintain your classic at home; all without the need for an expensive mechanic.
