Protecting bodywork

To make sure your vehicle runs at its maximum potential, it’s well worth devoting a bit of time to keeping the bodywork in good shape. Regular cleaning, polishing and rust maintenance can help you protect your vehicle and keep it looking smart and shiny for years to come.

General dirt

As you drive around, it’s inevitable that harmful substances will start to attach themselves to your vehicle. Exhaust fumes deposit sooty black particles on the bodywork, whilst rotting leaves and bird droppings will eat away at the paint. The air itself will eventually cause the paint on your car to dull, as the outer surface oxidises and starts to lose its sheen. Damage to the paint can expose bare metal to the rain and wind.

The solution

The simplest solution to a dull finish is to wash the car every week or so. Warm water, applied evenly over the body of the car, will rinse away specks and light dirt, but special car shampoos are usually denser and less acidic. If the paint on your car is dull, apply polish.

For mild cleaning, use a sponge or soft cloth, making sure it’s not abrasive. Ensure you have no particles of dirt trapped in the sponge, as this can scratch the paint. Don't forget to wash the windows too - it's traditional to polish them off with newspaper. A general clean like this once a week or so will be enough to wash off debris and corrosive substances.

Every three or four months your vehicle will benefit from waxing. This works as an invisible barrier between the surface and the elements, and has the added benefit of making your vehicle shine like new. You can pick up the correct wax for your vehicle from any garage or motoring store.

Apart from this regular clean, make sure that if you spill petrol, engine oil, brake fluid or antifreeze over the paint, you wash it off immediately with plenty of water as soon as you can.