Clean your car: our guide car cleaning in Autumn

As the seasons shift you may be thinking it is time to clean your car. Autumn presents a series of difficulties for car owners. With the worsening conditions taking a toll on your vehicle. This can affect the appearance, safety, and (potentially) longevity of your car.

There are several things you can do to counteract this. From ensuring your car retains its gleam to safeguarding the interior against the elements. That's right, it's not all just tyres here, we want to help you look after all of your car throughout of the year.

Clean Your Car Preperation

Autumn in the UK brings with it a set of unique of challenges. Each one can cause frustration when trying to keep and maintain your vehicle.

1. Falling Leaves: although the sight of leaves dancing on an autumnal breeze can be a sight of delight, those same leaves can potentially pose a problem for your car.
   
   As they find their way to the ground, many will land and stick to vehicles – which is a surefire way to trap moisture – a key component in rust, paint damage, and even blocked drainage channels.
   
   
2. Road Salt and Grit: as the temperatures begin to drop, the mornings will become increasingly held within the grip of heavy frosts. To combat ice on the roads, this is the time of year when salt is spready to combat poor road conditions.
   
   While this is effective for road safety, the road salt can be very detrimental to your car's exterior. Potentially corroding metal components and staining paintwork. Additionally, the combination of road salt and dirt can create a stubborn grime that sticks to your car.
   
   
3. Temperature Fluctuations: seasonal changes are often first noticed as the temperature begins to change. In the UK these changes can fluctuate quite significantly – with chilly mornings and relatively milder afternoons.
   
   This change in temperature will often result in increased condensation on your vehicle – more moisture to deal with. If left unchecked, this can contribute to mould and musty odours inside the car.

Clean Your Car in Autumn

Washing your car in late autumn requires special attention to make sure that is it effective, considering the cooler temperatures and potential frost.

To get the most out of your car washing session - regardless if it is a EV, car or SUV - follow these steps:

Choose the Right Day: Use a weather forecast app or service to pick an appropriate day. Ideally it should be relatively mild, and no forecast for rain, snow or frost.

In terms of the time of day, late morning or early afternoon is ideal, as temperatures tend to be at their highest. Plus, you’ll have enough daylight to spot all the problem areas that need your attention easily.

Gather the Necessary Supplies: Assemble your car-washing essentials, including a bucket, car wash soap, microfiber wash mitts/cloth, a hose – preferably with a spray nozzle, and a good quality chamois or microfiber towel (for drying).

Pre-Rinse Your Car: Begin by pre-rinsing your car with a hose to remove as much loose debris as you can. This includes leaves and dirt. Be cautious not to use high-pressure sprays, as they may cause damage to the paint.

Use a Quality Car Wash Soap: Select a car wash soap designed for cold weather. These formulas are less likely to freeze on the car's surface. Follow the product's instructions to make sure you dilute by the correct amount.

Two-Bucket Method: Employing a two-bucket method is the best way to prevent dirty and/or debris being transferred back onto your car's surface. It’s an easy system - fill one bucket with soapy water and another with clean water for rinsing your wash mitt periodically

Wash in Sections: Work in small sections at a time, starting from the roof and working your way down to the sides and then the wheels. Use gentle, circular motions with your wash mitt to lift the dirt and grime.

Rinse Thoroughly: After washing each section, rinse your car thoroughly with the hose to remove soap residue. Where possible, avoid using high-pressure sprays, as these can cause damage.

Dry Your Car: Use a chamois or microfiber towels to dry your car completely. Pay extra attention to seams and crevices where water can go undetected.

Consider Waxing: Late autumn is an excellent time to apply a protective wax coating to your car. This will shield the paint from the harsher conditions of winter and help to keep it looking at its best.

Car Interior Cleaning

As the season progresses, leaves, mud, and debris are more likely to find their way into the car's interior.

To ensure that the inside of your car remains debris and dirt free, there are several things you can do.

Begin by decluttering your car. Remove unnecessary items, including rubbish that may have accumulated over time. Plenty of us are guilty of dropping a crisp packet here or there, I am sure. It can’t just be me.

However, it's particularly important during the shift from Autumn to Winter, as leaves, dirt, and moisture can hide in the crevices of the interior and under your seats.

A thorough vacuuming is the next step. Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with appropriate attachments to comprehensively clean the interior.

Pay special attention to the seats, carpet, floor mats, and any storage compartments, as these areas tend to collect leaves and debris.

The seats in your car, whether fabric or leather, require special care. Depending on the type of upholstery, use an appropriate upholstery cleaner. For fabric seats, consider applying a fabric protector to guard against moisture.

In late autumn, the increased likelihood of mud and moisture entering your car calls for specific attention to the carpet and floor mats. Use a carpet cleaner and a brush to address any stains or dirty spots.

Cleaning the windows from the inside is another crucial, but often overlooked step in the late autumn cleanse.

As the temperatures begin to fluctuate, windows and mirrors are prone to the dreaded fogging up of condensation. To maintain your visibility when driving, use a streak-free window cleaner to remove any smears and excess moisture.

One final part to consider is the air vents. Clean and disinfect theses to make sure that the air you breathe is fresh and free from contaminants. If needed, consider replacing or cleaning the cabin air filter to maintain a healthy atmosphere within your car.

Cleaning Your Car at Home

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, it's important to keep your vehicle clean and in good shape.

By understanding the issues that late autumn can bring and following our practical advice, you can enjoy your autumn drives with a well-maintained vehicle.

Proper car maintenance isn't just about looks; it's also about safety and making your car last longer. So, hit the road and have a great time this autumn, knowing your vehicle is ready for the season's challenges. Safe travels.