4 Signs Your Car Needs a Deep Clean

Winter weather and road conditions can take a toll on your vehicle. Now that it’s warming up, it’s a great time to deep clean your car. Address the following warning signs before they become costly repairs.

Persistent Odor. Lingering smells could be from food, pets, or moisture. Left untreated, it could penetrate carpet fibers, stain upholstery, and leave behind bacteria that surface cleaning won’t touch. Moisture problems could also indicate a leaky problem. The first step is to identify the source to help prevent it from recurring. Vacuum to remove surface debris and spot clean any stain with an upholstery-safe solution. Sprinkling baking soda can also help absorb embedded odors.
Visible Grime. Dust and dirt can accumulate in hard-to-reach places such as air vents, windows, wheels, and other cracks and crevices. Build up can affect air quality on the inside and paint damage on the outside. Declutter interior spaces and use a vacuum crevice tool, detail brush, or compressed air to help dislodge dust. Don’t ignore surface dirt, as it can accumulate quickly and scratch surfaces. Protective waxes can help protect exterior finishes from future damage.
Stained Upholstery and Carpet. Be sure the solution you choose is formulated to remove the specific stain and can be used on the material you’re cleaning.
Foggy Windows and Mirrors. Persistent streaks on glass surfaces may be build up from dirt, debris, or cleaning products. This creates poor visibility, especially when sunlight hits at a certain angle, and often requires intensive cleaning. The interior and exterior glass should be cleaned for best results.

Regular car washes can help maintain cleanliness inside and out and make deep cleaning sessions easier. Professional car care experts know what signs to look for, how to treat them, and what to do to help prevent damage down the road.