Spring Cleaning for Your Car: Interior and Exterior Tips

After months of winter weather, your car has likely endured the harsh elements—snow, ice, road salt, and more. Now that spring is coming, it’s the perfect time to give your vehicle a much-needed deep clean. At Phoenix Collision, we understand the importance of maintaining both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Here’s a complete guide to spring cleaning your car, inside and out, to restore it after a tough winter season.

Exterior Spring Cleaning: Restoring Your Car’s Shine

Winter can leave a toll on your car’s exterior, with salt, grime, and dirt buildup that can damage the paint and promote rust. Here’s how to give your car a fresh start this spring:

• Wash Away the Winter Grime: The first step in any spring cleaning process is a good wash. It’s important to remove the salt and road grime from the winter months that can cause rust if left on the car for too long. Use a high-quality car wash soap designed to break down grime and dirt. Be sure to wash the undercarriage as well, since road salt tends to accumulate in the wheel wells and underbody, where it can promote rust.

  
  

• Don’t Forget the Tires and Wheels: Wheels are often the most affected by winter conditions, collecting road salt, dirt, and brake dust. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and a soft brush to scrub away the buildup. For extra protection, consider applying a wheel wax or sealant to help protect them from future grime.

  
  

• Polish and Wax Your Car: After washing, give your car’s paint a nice polish. This will restore the shine and remove any minor imperfections caused by harsh winter conditions. Follow up with a layer of wax to create a protective barrier against rain, dirt, and road contaminants. Waxing also makes it easier to wash your car in the future, as the layer of wax helps keep dirt from sticking.

  
  

• Clean the Windows: Spring showers can quickly reduce visibility, so it’s important to clean your windows both inside and out. Use a glass cleaner designed for automotive use to get rid of any streaks and smudges, and wipe down your mirrors for optimal visibility.

Interior Spring Cleaning: Restoring Comfort and Freshness

The interior of your car takes a beating over the winter months too. Between mud, wet shoes, and the accumulation of winter coats and gear, it’s easy for things to get dirty. Here’s how to freshen up your car’s interior:

• Vacuum the Floors, Seats, and Trunk: Start with a thorough vacuuming. Make sure to get into the nooks and crannies, including under the seats, in the crevices of the center console, and the trunk. Use the proper attachments to get the best clean, paying close attention to areas where salt, dirt, and crumbs might accumulate.

  
  

• Clean the Upholstery: If you have cloth seats, use a fabric cleaner or upholstery shampoo to lift any stains, dirt, or salt marks. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to keep the material supple and protected from cracking. Don’t forget to wipe down the seatbelts, which can collect grime as well.

  
  

• Deodorize the Interior: Winter can trap odors inside your car, whether it’s from wet clothes or salty air. Use an interior deodorizer or air freshener to eliminate any lingering smells. A good trick is to sprinkle baking soda on the carpets and upholstery before vacuuming to absorb odors.

  
  

• Clean the Dashboard, Console, and Door Panels: The dashboard and center console accumulate dust, grime, and fingerprints over time. Use a microfiber cloth and appropriate cleaners to gently wipe down these surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. For door panels, a simple wipe-down will remove dirt and any salt stains.

  
  

• Detail the Small Areas: Pay attention to the small areas that can often get overlooked, like the cup holders, air vents, and door handles. A cotton swab or soft brush can help clean out dust and grime from tight spaces.

Removing Salt Stains: A Special Challenge for Spring

Salt stains can be one of the most frustrating remnants of winter, especially when it comes to your carpets and upholstery. Here's how to get rid of those stubborn stains:

• On Carpets and Mats: Salt stains on your car’s floor mats or carpet are a common issue during the winter months. To remove them, mix a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Blot up any excess liquid with a clean towel.

  
  

• On Upholstery: Salt stains on fabric upholstery can be treated by applying a vinegar-water solution (same 1:1 ratio) to a cloth and blotting the stain. Avoid rubbing the fabric, as it could push the stain deeper. For leather, use a leather cleaner specifically designed to remove salt stains.

  
  

• On the Seats and Mats: For stubborn salt stains on rubber floor mats, simply use soap and water with a brush to scrub away the buildup. Rinse thoroughly and dry before replacing them in the car.

Additional Tips for Spring Vehicle Care

While spring cleaning your car, don’t forget to give it some TLC under the hood as well:

• Check Fluid Levels: Ensure that your oil, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are topped up for optimal performance. Winter can cause fluid levels to drop or become dirty, so a spring check-up is a great way to start the season right.

  
  

• Inspect Wipers and Replace if Needed: Spring showers are on the way, so make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. If they’re leaving streaks or have visible damage, replace them with a fresh set.

  
  

• Check Tires: Finally, check your tires for any damage that may have occurred due to the rough winter roads. Look for cracks, low tread depth, or anything unusual. Make sure they’re properly inflated, as fluctuating temperatures can affect tire pressure.

Give Your Car the Spring Cleaning It Deserves At Phoenix Collision

We go beyond just collision repair—we also offer auto detailing services to keep your vehicle looking its best. Our professional detailing team uses high-quality products and techniques to thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of your car. From hand washing and waxing to deep cleaning of upholstery and carpets, we ensure every corner of your vehicle is spotless.

Trust Phoenix Collision to give your vehicle the care it deserves! To book an appointment, call us at 217-546-7227 or contact us online.