Is there anything better than cruising in the sunshine from the comfort of your sparkling Hyundai? Spring and summer bring plenty of warm weather and clear skies, inviting you to hit the road and show off your vehicle. But before you head out, why not spiff up your ride with a few of these spring cleaning tips?
Refresh the Interior
By the time spring rolls around, your car's floor mats - and even the seats - have probably collected a fair amount of rock salt, mud, and other wintery debris. That's not even to mention the winter equipment (like emergency gear, snow shovels, and tire chains) that you may be carting around.
Start your spring car cleaning by removing all of those no-longer-necessary items, then follow it up with a full-surface cleanse that targets the carpet and upholstery. This is best done with the aid of a specialized carpet-cleaning vacuum, although the one at your local car wash will do in a pinch.
Wax On, Wax Off
After a thorough cleaning, a fresh coat of automotive wax can be just the thing to make your Hyundai stand out. Be sure to let the car fully dry before application. Not only does waxing provide a quality shine, it can add an extra layer of protection to the paint for several weeks or more - but only if you apply it correctly.
As always, you'll definitely want to avoid waxing the car in direct sunlight. Hot surfaces can cause the wax to run slightly, as well as "bake" into the paint. It can be tough to remove, will often streak, and may even damage the car's exterior!
If you're relatively new to waxing, or are simply trying out a new brand, it's good practice to start by applying a tiny amount in an inconspicuous spot in order to see how it looks. Remember to use thin, even coats to minimize streaks or lumps - you can always go over the car again with another coat or two later.
Don't Forget the Undercarriage!
After a long winter of driving in the slush and ice, the bottom of your car is likely coated with salt, sand, and other corrosive agents. Corrosion leads to rusting, which can be particularly dangerous - especially when it happens to your brake and fuel lines.
Head down to the nearest car wash and spring for the undercarriage treatment, or save a few bucks by taking a garden hose to the underside yourself. If you choose the DIY method, you may find it helpful to raise the vehicle up with a car jack, for maximum access.
