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   Minneapolis & Ham Lake, MN | (763) 257-3130

OUR BLOG

5/10/2023
Get your car in top cosmetic condition this season with our step-by-step guide on how to spring clean your vehicle. Keep reading this post by Mike Ford Shop in Ham Lake for tips on this subject.

Spring is officially here! For many, this is the season of renewal and restoration. As such, we often kick off this time of the year by deep cleaning our closets and homes. But what about our cars? Cleaning your rig inside and out is an essential spring task. Not only does it make your vehicle look better, but it also helps maintain its value and improves safety. With that in mind, grab your cleaning supplies and prepare to give your car the TLC it deserves! To that end, keep reading this post for tips on how to spring clean your vehicle.

Time to change your oil? Get the best and most reliable synthetic oil change in Ham Lake by calling Mike Ford Shop at (763) 257-3130. Or, stop by AMSOIL's online store to place an order for the best formulas and maintenance products.

How to Spring Clean Your Vehicle's Exterior

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start cleaning, it's essential to have all the necessary supplies on hand. Here's a list of items you'll need to wash the car's exterior:
  • Buckets
  • Hose or pressure washer
  • Car wash soap
  • Microfiber towels or wash mitts
  • Wheel cleaner
  • Tire cleaner
  • Wax or sealant

Pre-Rinse the Car

Use a hose or pressure washer to pre-rinse the car, starting from the top and working your way down. Doing this will help loosen any dirt or debris accumulated on the surface. Use a wide spray pattern and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches from the car's surface to avoid damaging the paint.

Wash the Car

Fill a bucket with water and add car wash soap. Use a microfiber towel or mitt to wash the car, starting from the top and working your way down. Rinse the towel or mitt in a separate bucket to remove the abrasive dirt it picks up while you clean. Additionally, use a separate towel for the wheels and tires. That way, you'll avoid cross-contamination. Finally, use a clean, absorbent microfiber towel to dry off the paint.

Clean the Wheels and Tires

Spray a wheel cleaner onto the wheels and tires. Then, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the surface, including all the nooks and crannies. Rinse the wheels and tires with a hose or pressure washer.

Wax or Seal the Car

Once the car's exterior is clean and dry, wax it to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. Apply the wax carefully in a thin, even layer and buff off any excess with a clean towel.

AMSOIL's Brake and Parts Cleaner is a professional strength parts cleaner designed to remove oil, grease, and other contaminants from your car's components. To get this and other specialized car cleaning products, stop by AMSOIL's online store or call Mike Ford Shop in Ham Lake at (763) 257-3130 anytime.

How to Spring Clean Your Vehicle's Interior

Supplies You'll Need

Now, it's time to gather the products and supplies you'll need to clean the car's cabin. Here's a list of items you'll need:
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Microfiber towels
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Glass cleaner
  • Upholstery cleaner
  • Soft-bristled brush

Declutter and Remove Trash

Start by removing any trash or clutter from the car. Empty the cup holders, center console, and glove compartment. Also, remove any items from under the seats and floor.

Vacuum and Clean the Seats and Carpet

Clean the seats, floor mats, and carpet using a vacuum cleaner. Pay special attention to the crevices and seams of the seats and the floorboards, where dirt and debris can accumulate. Use a soft-bristled brush to loosen any dirt or debris that's difficult to reach. If your car has leather seats, use an upholstery cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to scrub them. As for cloth seats, use a fabric cleaner and a microfiber towel to remove any stains.

Clean the Dashboard and Interior Surfaces

Use an all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber towel to clean the dashboard, steering wheel, and other interior surfaces. Pay attention to the vents, cup holders, and other hard-to-reach areas. Use a small brush to clean the crevices and seams of the surfaces. For leather surfaces, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to clean them.

Clean the Windows and Mirrors

Finally, use a glass cleaner and a microfiber towel to clean the windows and mirrors. Spray the cleaner onto the surface and wipe it off with a clean towel. Use a clean towel or a squeegee to remove the residue for stubborn spots or streaks.

The better you take care of your car, the better your car will take care of you on the road. Call Mike Ford Shop at (763) 257-3130 to find the best and most effective synthetic oil in Ham Lake. To explore all the top-shelf products AMSOIL has to offer, check out the online store now!