General Maintenance Detailing of Your Car’s Interior and Exterior Between Professional Details

Before you start with the DIY general maintenance detailing, it’s best to have your vehicle professionally detailed inside and out. This provides the best foundation for maintaining your car’s cleanliness and shine. Some corrective measures could include Deep Cleaning at the micro level, Paint Correction, and Ceramic Coating to add years of protective shine.

Once you’ve established this foundation, here are some tips to keep your car looking its best:

Vacuum Regularly

Vacuum your carpets and upholstery every week to prevent the build-up of dirt. Pay special attention to areas where dirt and crumbs tend to accumulate, like under the seats and in the crevices of the center console.

Wipe Down Interior Surfaces

Regularly clean the vinyl and plastic surfaces to prevent the formation of a film caused by those surfaces out-gassing VOCs (volatile organic compounds). This includes the dash, door panels, center console and any other hard plastic or vinyl surfaces. A microfiber cloth dampened with a little water or an all-purpose cleaner is all you need.

Clean the Windows

Use an automotive glass cleaner with a lint-free cloth. This is specially formulated to clean car windows and aftermarket tint without streaking.

Exterior Wash

Regular washing with a PH-balanced car soap will inhibit the build-up of dirt and grime and will enhance the performance of the ceramic coating. If you have one, using a snow foam cannon is great for minimizing the marring of the paint from the wash process. Furthermore, deionized water makes washing far easier because no hard water spots are formed.

Rims and Tires

The rims and tires are some of the dirtiest parts of your car, so they need to be cleaned regularly. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and brush to remove all the brake dust and grime.

Protect the Paint

Keeping a good coat of wax, sealant or coating will serve as a sacrificial barrier against the elements. Also, maintenance washes will be easier due to the hydrophobic characteristics of the protective coating.

Remember, safety first! Always ensure your car is parked safely when performing these tasks and consider wearing gloves when using certain cleaning products.

Royal Image Detailing offers a wide range of detailing services to meet your particular needs.

Owner Dave Cox, Royal Image Detailing, contact me today at 714-746-5308 if you have any questions. To schedule an appointment, click here for our Contact Us Form.