Keep those windshields clear & safe With most of the East Coast having a colder than
normal winter, with snow, ice, and sub zero temperatures for extended periods of
time, we’re so very lucky here in Georgia to have escaped most of the really
severe weather. Sure we’ve had some cold weather, and a moderate ice storm, overall we have been fortunate enough to also enjoy some above average temperatures, and wonderful sunny winter days. But don’t let that fool you. Our vehicles need care regardless of how mild things have been so far. Most of us forget to replace our wiper blades until we need them on a rainy morning. Good wiper blades are critical to unimpaired visibility and driving safety. Wiper blade replacement is recommended every six
months, or at the very least once a year. The rubber that meets the glass can
deteriorate from harmful UV rays, ozone, and road grime. Fresh wiper blades not
only clean the glass better for good visibility, but protect that expensive
windshield from damaging scratches. If you are a commuter who drives eastbound in the morning, and back westbound in the evening, you already understand the sun’s ability to blind you. A clean windshield (inside and out) is key to reducing the sun’s glare. Keep the glass clean; keep your windshield washer system in working order with a full reservoir of washer solvent, and of course, maintain good wiper blades. Sounds simple, but ask yourself when you last topped up the windshield washer fluid, and replaced the wiper blades. Keeping those windows clear will make your car or light truck safer, more reliable, and more fun to drive.
Happy Motoring, SM
Clean and Safe Spring is not too far off, and that means shirtsleeve weather, plants beginning to bloom, and a fresh, welcome reprieve from old man winter’s frosty grip. Winter weather can be tough on any vehicle, especially those vehicles that exist without the protection of a garage. The paint finish takes a heavy toll from road contaminants, extreme temperatures, and a host of other things like the sun’s rays, and frozen precipitation. Now that the weather is getting better, it’s time to revitalize our vehicles. Here are some tips on cleaning winter’s memories from your car or truck. Start by giving it a good washing. Use plenty of clean water, a good car wash detergent, and never household cleaners. Please don’t make the mistake of using dish detergents or any other cleaners that are not specifically designed for automotive finishes. I like to use 2 buckets and 2 wash mitts. I say
“Mitts” because a good quality wool or wool combination
I use one bucket and mitt for washing the top of the vehicle, down to about the door handles. The other is for washing the dirtiest part, which is from the beltline down. This two bucket / mitt method prevents bringing that heavy dirt at the bottom to the cleaner areas of the top. After washing, dry the finish with a clean chamois or absorber, and then apply a good coat of clear coat safe wax. I personally prefer carnauba waxes. Clean the glass inside and out with a good glass cleaner and soft terry towel or paper towels, and then vacuum out the interior. Keeping your car’s finish clean and protected will
pay big dividends when its time to trade or sell. A Protect your investment, and keep yourself and family safe by maintaining the cosmetic, as well as the mechanical areas of your vehicle.
Happy Motoring!
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