Car Maintenance for Hot Weather Driving

In the last few weeks the weather has really heated up. Extreme seasonal changes can have a negative impact on your vehicle if you already have something that is going on. As the warm months continue it's important to keep up with summer maintenance on your vehicle, including the exterior. If you have any questions or concerns about the condition of your car, it's important to schedule an appointment with an auto repair shop in Bucks County to take a look at it.

Washing
Dirt, rain spots, pollutants, dead bags, tree sap and bird droppings can all make your car dirty and damage the paint job. In the summer find a cool and shady space to give your car a good wash. It's really important to dry it right away to avoid any spotting. You can choose to use some sort of car washing product like Turtle Wax ICE Premium Care Car Wash or Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash. These products are designed specifically to avoid stripping away waxes. You should avoid using a dish soap or any household cleaner that can damage your car's finish.

Depending on the environment you live in you may to need to take extra measures when you are washing you car. For example, if you live in a beach town, it's important to clean under the hood where salt cab build up and cause possible damage.

Drying 
It's very important to avoid spotting by using a microfiber cleaning cloth, or a chamois, using broad strokes. Do a quick job drying off the excess water and then go back and make sure you got it all. A chamois is a perfect tool to dry a car with because it absorbs tons of water, is lint free and traps small particles without rubbing them into your car's finish. You can even use it to dry windows  because it's lint free and won't cause any smudge marks. Microfiber towels require special care. Make sure to wash them separately from all other laundry with hot water and run them through an additional rinse cycle.

Polishing & Waxing
If you choose to add a polish or glaze to your vehicle, apply it by hand using small circular overlapping strokes with a foam applicator and then removing it with a microfiber towel. Make sure that the polish doesn't dry completely. This can result in scratches to your finish.

For protection, it's vital that you apply a car wax at least every three months. There are some varieties that can be used more often. Turtle wax is a popular option when looking for longer-lasting protection. When using a liquid or paste wax, use the same technique as the polish. If you are using spray waxes keep in mind that the application won't last as long as the liquids or the pastes.

It's important to check you car for an weaknesses before extreme seasonal changes occur. Bring you car into an auto repair shop in Bucks County to have a licensed mechanic look things over for you. If you have any questions with exterior maintenance they could also help you with that.