New Year Car Cleaning Checklist
As we kick off the new year, it's the perfect opportunity to give your car a thorough cleaning. A clean and well-maintained vehicle not only looks great but also contributes to better performance, longevity, and your general state of mind. Since a new year is all about starting fresh, we thought it would be a good idea to create a guide that will help your car start the year on the right foot. Or should we say wheel? And for the ultimate in car care, bring your vehicle to DEKRA for a comprehensive Technical Inspection.
Let DEKRA help ensure that your car is safe and well-maintained for the year ahead.
The Importance of New Year Car Cleaning
When we're fresh from our holidays and thinking about all the things that need to be done before the new year kicks off, we tend to place cleaning our cars at the bottom of the list. The thing is, our cars often show the evidence of our travels and the related festive celebrations. Sea salt from beach outings, red dust from off-roading, and general travel grime from the roads can damage the exterior, while the interior might be cluttered with holiday debris like takeaway containers and shopping bags.
Having a clean car can have several positive psychological effects on a driver.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: A cluttered or dirty car can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Conversely, a clean car can create a more calming and organised environment, which can help reduce stress levels while driving.
Improved Focus and Concentration: A tidy interior, free from distractions like trash or personal items, can help drivers focus better on the road. This increased concentration can lead to safer driving practices.
Boost in Mood and Well-being: The act of cleaning and taking care of one's car can be therapeutic, offering a sense of accomplishment and control. This can positively impact the driver's mood and overall sense of well-being.
Sense of Renewal: Much like cleaning and organising your living space, cleaning a car can give drivers a sense of starting fresh, which can be particularly uplifting and motivating.
These benefits alone are enough for us to plan on setting aside some time over the weekend to give our beloved rides the attention and care they deserve.
Read: Spring Car Care Checklist
If you plan on doing the same, we've created a car cleaning step-by-step you can use to make sure you pay attention to every part of your vehicle, not just the obvious things that need your attention.
Bookmark this article so that it's easy to find or copy the list below onto your phone's notes app for quick access.
Image credit: Nik on Unsplash
New Year Car Cleaning Step-by-Step
Exterior Cleaning
1. Pre-Wash: Rinse off loose dirt and debris to prevent scratches during the actual wash.
2. Select Cleaning Products: Use pH-balanced car wash shampoo instead of household detergents.
3. Two-Bucket Method: One bucket for the cleaning solution and another for rinsing the sponge or mitt.
4. Wheel Cleaning: Apply wheel cleaner and use a soft brush to clean them.
5. Dry the Car: Use a clean microfiber towel to dry the vehicle and prevent water spots.
Interior Cleaning
1. Declutter: Remove all trash and personal items.
2. Vacuum: Thoroughly vacuum carpets, seats, dashboard, under seats, and the trunk.
3. Clean Upholstery: Use appropriate cleaners for leather or fabric seats.
4. Wipe Down Surfaces: Clean the dashboard, centre console, and other surfaces with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
5. Clean Window: Clean the windows from the inside to remove any buildup.
Finishing Touches
1. Waxing: Apply wax to protect the paint and enhance the car's appearance.
2. Tyre Shine: Use tyre shine products to protect and beautify the tyres.
3. Air Refreshing: Use an air freshener or place a bowl of baking soda to remove odours.
Optional: Engine and Undercarriage
1. Engine Bay Check and Clean: Use a degreaser in the engine bay and rinse carefully.
2. Undercarriage Inspection: Rinse the undercarriage thoroughly to remove road debris and grime.
Items and products you will need
Use the list below to make sure you have everything you need before you start cleaning your car. Please note that these are only suggestions and you can use what you have available.
- Car wash shampoo
- Microfiber towel
- Wheel cleaner
- Wash mitt or sponge
- Upholstery cleaner
- Vacuum cleaner
- Glass/window cleaner
- Car wax or polish
- Interior surface cleaner
- Air freshener
- Your favourite playlist
Image credit: Ariyo on Pexels
A tip for parents: This list will come in very handy for kids who want to earn a little extra allowance. Make sure they do a good job and have them follow this step-by-step car cleaning guide we've created.
Remember that car cleaning is more than just a weekend task; it's an essential part of vehicle maintenance that enhances your driving experience and preserves your car's condition. By following our step-by-step, you can ensure that every aspect of your vehicle receives the attention it deserves. However, cleaning is just one part of the equation. For the ultimate care and assurance of your vehicle's safety and performance, we strongly recommend bringing your car in for a DEKRA Technical Inspection. Our team of experts will provide a thorough assessment, ensuring that your car is not only clean but also in top-notch condition for the year ahead. So, while you enjoy the benefits of a freshly cleaned car, let DEKRA take care of the technical aspects, giving you peace of mind throughout the year.
