Page 8 - AAA Now! – AAA Northway – Spring 2021

While the term “spring cleaning” may conjure
the mental image of washing drapes and vacuuming beneath furniture, chances are your car also could benefit from a thorough cleaning. Here are some tips for tidying up your car this spring.
Rid Your Vehicle’s Exterior of Wintery Remains
First, start with a general wash down to remove that outer layer of dirt and grime. It’s important to include the underbody, where salt collects throughout the winter.
After giving your windshield a thorough scrub, you might consider replacing your wipers. Windshield wipers are relatively inexpensive and make a huge difference while driving.
Moving down to your wheels, it’s important
to make sure to remove build-up from the wheels and hubcaps. Try using a
stiff brush to get a deeper clean. Consider checking the pressure on all of your tires at this time.
Don’t forget to check under the hood. It’s not uncommon to find a buildup of leaves and debris there. You can remove this yourself, however, depending on the extent of the buildup, you might consider taking it in for a professional cleaning.
Give Your Vehicle’s Interior a Fresh Start to Spring
Your vehicle’s carpet and interior fabrics likely have remnants of the winter weather.
You can take a damp cloth to remove dirt and stains. Once dry, vacuum to remove any remaining debris. PRO TIP: Hairspray is
great for removing pet hair from carpeting. Hairspray adheres to pet hair making it easier to vacuum up.
As you’ve probably noticed, a lot of dust gets caught in your air vents. You can use a cotton swab or makeup brush to clean them out. Popping a few air freshers in will keep your car smelling fresh.
Next, you can remove floormats for a good scrubbing. Hard plastics can be sprayed down, whereas carpeted floormats should be tackled with carpet cleaner.
If things tend to collect in your car, go in with a minimalist approach and only keep what is necessary. You may be surprised by how relieved you feel after getting rid of the extra “stuff.” Set yourself up for success by keeping a garbage bag in your vehicle.
Don’t Forget to Clean Out Your Trunk
To give your trunk a thorough cleaning, remove all items and vacuum out dirt and dust. As you put things back in your trunk, ask yourself what’s necessary to keep stored in your vehicle and what can go. If you don’t already have one, it is important to create a car safety kit and store it in your trunk. Now also is a great time to check the status of your spare tire, making sure it’s ready in the event you need to use it.
Ask your AAA Northway agent about auto insurance policies from NYCM Insurance to protect your vehicle and provide complete peace of mind.
For more helpful articles regarding auto tips, home maintenance, lifestyle hacks and more, visit blog.
Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Car
nycm.com.
Article provided by NYCM Insurance
Designed for springtime adventures,
we’re proud to offer Auto Insurance made for New York.
Contact your AAA Northway agent or visit nycm.com/auto to learn more about an auto policy
from NYCM Insurance.
New York Central Mutual | 1899 Central Plaza East, Edmeston, NY 13335 | 888-234-6926
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SPRING 2021