Driving your classic car is a great way to unwind, whether you’re going on a road trip, or visiting a loved one. Maintaining one takes a lot of commitment, from carrying out regular checks, to making sure it’s cleaned properly. The summer months can be a popular time to wash your car, but there’s more to consider than soaking it with water. Here are seven tips on how to wash your classic car effectively.
1) Wash the car frequently
Rather than waiting for the summer, it’s best to clean your car as much as possible. Not only will it be clean all the time, but there won’t be any buildup of dirt or dust.
2) Don’t wash the car on a hot day
Washing the car in direct sunlight will heat the bodywork and splashing cold water on it will lead to a temperature difference. This can cause paint to crack and damage the car’s overall appearance. Instead, wash your vehicle in a shaded spot.
3) Using the right kind of cleaning product matters
Before washing the car it’s important to choose the right kind of cleaning product. You use should a Ph balanced, non-detergent cleaning product that won’t strip away protective wax. It’s advised to stay away from washing up liquid because the bleach and ammonia in the liquid will damage the bodywork.
4) Always wash with a cloth
Once you’ve applied water and cleaning product, wash the car with a cotton or lamb’s wool cloth. Start from the roof and work your way down. Be sure to wash the cloths in between use in a washing machine and let them dry naturally. It’s best to avoid using sponges because they can trap dirt and scratch the car.
5) Remove any old stickers before washing windows
If your classic car has any old stickers on the windows then peel them away before washing the windows. To avoid leaving a mark, slowly peel the corner of the sticker with your fingers. Then, dampen a cotton rag with rubbing alcohol and apply to the sticker. Wipe up the liquid before it reaches the bottom of the window and then remove any residue left behind by the sticker.
6) Don’t neglect to wax your car
Waxing is the best way to protect the bodywork of a car. Make sure to use a high-grade polish that’s suited to the paint and colour of your vehicle. Use circular motions to wax the car and buff it with a clean cloth.
7) A toothbrush can be used for more than just your teeth
In order to get to the hard to reach places in your car an old toothbrush comes in handy. Use the toothbrush to clean the dirt from the wheels, spokes and underside.
Looking after your classic car is important and you can ensure it’s protected by finding the right kind of insurance. As classic car insurance brokers, we can help you find deals for a range of models, from Aston Martins, to Minis.
