Keep Your Car Looking Like New with These Appearance Care Tips

While routine maintenance keeps your car running well, taking steps to keep your vehicle looking pristine improves its aesthetic appeal and resale value. Neglecting your car's exterior and interior not only makes it less enjoyable to drive, but reduces its value as well. With simple regular car care, you can keep your ride looking almost like new for years to come. Read on for our top appearance care tips.

Wash and Wax Exterior Frequently

The first step is keeping the exterior washed to prevent buildup of dirt, pollutants, and UV damage. Try to wash your car at least every couple weeks or more often if driving in wintry conditions. Use automotive soap and wash mitts made from microfiber or other gentle fabrics. Rinse well and dry with microfiber drying towels to prevent water spots. Wax the paint a few times per year using carnauba or polymer automotive waxes for added protection and shine. Remove bird droppings, tree sap, and bug splatter quickly to avoid etching the paint. For extra shine, consider applying a paint sealant as well. Keeping your car clean makes it look new and protects the paintwork.  

Clean Headlights and Trim

Plastic headlights and trim easily get foggy and yellowed from sun exposure, reducing illumination. Use headlight cleaner kits to clear up cloudy lenses. Wipe trim pieces down regularly with protectants and UV blockers made for plastic and rubber to avoid fading. Chrome pieces also benefit from occasional polishing to maintain luster. Keeping lenses crystal clear and trim looking dark and vivid improves visibility and makes the whole car appear newer.

Detail the Interior

It's easy to overlook minor interior messes that make a car feel worn out. Vacuum upholstery and mats frequently to remove dust and debris that dulls the interior over time. Use interior cleaners and protectants on vinyl, leather, and plastic surfaces to keep them looking rich. Remove stuck-on grime from seat belts. Clean inside windows and mirrors to improve visibility. Organize clutter and empty trash. Air out any lingering odors from spills, pets, smoke or dampness using odor eliminators. A detailed, fresh interior makes driving any car more pleasant.

Keeping your vehicle's exterior washed, waxed and detailed not only protects the paint from elements but keeps it looking newer for longer. Detailing the interior through regular vacuuming, cleaning, and deodorizing refreshes the environment too. Investing a little time in basic cleaning and polishing benefits the aesthetics and value of your ride. Contact the detailing pros at Highland Tire if you need help restoring neglected paint or interiors. Simple weekly maintenance makes caring for the full vehicle easier. Don't just tend to your car's mechanical needs - a little aesthetic care protects its appearance and your investment.