Run: PV NEWS Automotive, 2/18/04

Exterior and Interior Maintenance

by Dave Carney

Today’s cars are built to last, and in fact, do last well over 100.000 miles and often to 200.000 miles. In order to enjoy your car more while driving and to get better re-sale, you should consider the benefits of detailing the car from time-to-time.

New cars come with a shiny, smooth finish, but there is no wax on the car. The smoothness you feel is the paint finish. You need to protect this finish with a coat of wax. Pollutants and dirt from the air can get baked on and cause the paint to break down and become oxidized.

Similarly, new leather looks and smells wonderful and it, too, will last longer if it is sealed. Leather upholstery will dry out and crack if it is not treated periodically.

I have listed some helpful and easy tips on exterior and interior maintenance below, which when followed, will add years of driving pleasure!

1) Keep your car in the garage at night, or covered with a properly fitting car cover if left outside. (If your car is on the street be sure to have the license number on the cover).

2) Keep your car clean as this reduces the oxidation process.

3) To see if your car needs wax, simply rub your hand on it. It should be as smooth as a baby’s bottom. While waxes available over the counter are good, they are not professional products, which are a higher quality and available to the trade only. A wax job done by a professional with high-quality products will last longer and provide a better finish than do-it-yourself products.

4) If the paint on your car has signs of oxidation, it needs to be polished to remove the oxidation and scratches. Polishing requires a buffer to do a really good job. Again, a car care professional is your best choice.

5) All chrome trim, including the wheels, need to be polished regularly to stay in top condition and look their shiny-best.

6) Finally, don’t forget that the tires should be dressed with a professional protection each time the car is washed.

We all know that a clean car drives better and is surely more enjoyable to drive. So, why not treat yourself to the pleasure and enjoyment of driving a car that looks and feels like new?!

Questions? Please feel free to give me a call at Hillside Automotive, 310.373.7676.

Our new Automotive Center is located on Hawthorne Blvd., at Newton Street in Torrance. Hours are 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Happy, safe motoring!

Dave Carney