Body maintenance and repair

The condition of your car's body is very important because it has a large impact on its resale value. It is much more difficult to repair a run down or damaged bodywork than mechanical parts. Body cavities such as the wheel wells, frame and engine compartment are just as important, even though they don't require as much attention as the rest of the body.

Once a year, or every 20,000 km, it is very useful to clean the underbody with steam. All traces of dirt and oil will be removed and the area can then be inspected for rust, damaged brake lines, frayed electrical wires, damaged cables, and so on. At the end of this work, the front suspension components should be lubricated.

Clean the engine and engine compartment at the same time with a steam cleaner or grease remover.

Particular attention must be paid to the wheel wells as the backing may peel off and stones and dirt thrown from the wheels may damage the paint and allow rust to form. If you find rust, clean the damaged surface down to the metal and apply anti-corrosion paint to it.

The body must be washed at least once a week. Wet the vehicle thoroughly to soften the dirt, then wash it off with a soft sponge and plenty of soapy water. If the dirt is not thoroughly washed off, it can wear off the paint.

Tar or bitumen stains must be cleaned with a cloth soaked in solvent.

At least every six months, polish the bodywork and chrome parts. If you use a chrome cleaner to remove rust from electroplated parts, remember that the cleaner also removes chrome tarnish, so use it with care.