DETAIL YOUR CAR

My parking lot at work is Ground Zero for various species of pigeons, sea gulls, and any other bird that feels the urge. Almost every day one lucky vehicle wins the lottery and becomes the target for a bird in need. Some cars luck out with a few precise droppings; others become victims of intense carpet bombing, covering the car from front to back in a variety of shades and colors. It can be down right nasty, and at the very least, not at all good for a vehicle’s exterior.

Between acid rain, Mother Nature’s wrath of weather fury and the birds from above, it's now more important than ever to protect your car’s finish with a little TLC. Wash your car when it’s dirty (get that bird off while it’s fresh), wax the car’s finish at least twice a year, regularly vacuum the soccer dirt away and occasionally wash the grime off of your windows. These simple acts will make you feel good about your car, and add years to your fit and its finish.

Don’t fall for the misconception that if your car has a clear coat finish you don’t need to wax it. Clear coat is not some magical, space age treatment, but is nothing more than another layer of paint that happens to be clear. It’s prone to scratches, and can show wear and tear if not taken care of properly. A clear coat finish needs a protective layer of wax just like any other. Clean and wax your car regularly.

You can’t feel good about your car if its interior is dirty or full of clutter. Get rid of the stuff. You don’t need those old receipts, sales flyers and McDonald’s wrappers. The last thing you need in an emergency stop is flying debris hitting you in the head or distracting you. While you’re at it, get your vacuum out. Having clean carpets, upholstery and dash board will make you feel like you have a new car, reenergizing your love affair with your most expensive possession.

I’m always amazed what a difference it makes to clean the windows of my car. Gradually over time, a thin film accumulates over the interior glass, especially noticeable on the windshield. Whether it’s the gaseous residue from the plastics of the interior materials, dirt, pollen or other particulates, they all adhere to the glass. The film’s affects are most noticeable during night driving where the coating adds to the glare from headlights and street lights, as well as distorting distance perception with oncoming traffic. Clean your windows inside and out, you’ll be amazed what a difference it makes.

It’s surprising how much people are willing to pay for their car, and then choose to not take care of it. Don’t let the birds win, protect your car with a little wash here and a little wax there. Your car will look and feel like new.

MaineAutoMall.com Auto Blog

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