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A CLEANING expert has revealed a cheap trick to prevent car interiors from being torn apart by wintery weather.
In an exclusive interview with The U.S. Sun, car wash chain manager Isaac Lee warned that snowy roads can cause massive $200 repairs.
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Cars with leather interiors are at risk of cracking thanks to biting winter temperatures and abrasive road salt that can be tracked inside, Lee explained.
Lee, who is the chief operating officer at Soapy Joe’s Car Wash, warned that repairing cracked leather can cost up to $200 as some services require a restoration specialist.
However, drivers can avoid the fees by applying leather conditioner regularly, which can be purchased at Walmart for just $5.
The Weiman three-in-one leather cleaner and conditioner is designed for cars, furniture, and shoes and is just $4.99 at the supermarket.
Drivers can cruise on over to their local supermarket for the cleaning product, or order it online.
Amazon Prime members can also get the Armor All car leather cleaning spray delivered right to their homes for just $7.97.
Plus, Weiman leather wipes can be purchased at Target for $5.49 and kept in your car for a quick clean-up.
Keeping the inside clean is key after temperatures drop, but Lee’s biggest winter warning is for drivers to keep a close eye on their tires.
Tires can also get battered by snowy conditions, and it’s easy to forget to give them the care they need.
According to the expert, replacing tires can cost up to a massive $1,000 per wheel, depending on what you choose.
“Keeping them clean can help prevent them from being worn down and allow them to maintain traction,” Lee said.
“Car owners should make a habit of using a wheel cleaner and brush to remove dirt and grime and preserve the longevity of their tires.”
Lee recommended dropping by an express wash this year, as they offer supplies specifically designed to clean salty and ice melt off of tires.
“If you’re a car wash visitor or monthly member, be sure to check that your local wash offers additional tools like this in the vacuum area.”
How often should you clean your car?
Professionals recommend an interval that may be surprising when cleaning your car.
Depending on where you live and what your typical day looks like, the suggested interval for cleaning a vehicle is every two weeks.
“Regularly washing your car removes everyday contaminants like tar, road debris, and bird droppings that can ruin your car’s paint job over time,” wrote Progressive.
“But there’s no one right answer to this question — it depends on factors like your lifestyle, the climate where you live, and how you store your vehicle when you’re not driving it.”
However, if applying a fresh coat of wax after every cleaning session or if the vehicle is parked in a garage, cleaning may not have to be done as regularly.
“Waxing your car creates a barrier between your clear coat – the layer on top of the paint – and outside elements, so it won’t be able to absorb and affect the exterior of your car,” the site continued.
Source: Progressive Auto Insurance
CAR WASH PERKS
Washing your car at home is great for saving money and convenience, but express washes offer crucial upkeep services.
The high-pressure water jets and professional-grade soaps can remove grime without damaging the paintwork, Soapy Joe’s said.
Plus, most businesses have pro-cleaners who can help with any issues plaguing drivers.
“They have the knowledge and experience to tackle even the toughest stains,” the car wash brand said.
Those who prefer washing at home should make sure they use soap designed for vehicles and thoroughly rinse after scrubbing.
For the best results, the car should be buffed with towels afterward.
