7:10 am, October 15, 2008
NATIONAL Car Care Week has, this year, taken on added significance.
Because customers are spending on car cleaning products to protect their investment, rather than buying new cars.
Autoglym reckons it has actually seen an increase in sales during the credit crunch.
The car care brand is anticipating an added boost this week, and is touring radio stations to spread the message of good car care.
‘We have noticed that the public are taking more care of their cars than ever before,’ said Autoglym CEO Paul Caller. ‘Owners are keen to extend the life of their vehicle by keeping it clean and by protecting it from harsh weather and wear and tear.
‘Those seeking to sell a used car realise that every penny counts in the current economic climate, and taking the time to treat the car to a good quality wash and polish can add hundreds of pounds to the resale value.’
EurotaxGlass’s, the publisher of Glass’s Guide, recently confirmed that a comprehensive clean inside and out can add up to £600 to the value of a used car put up for private sale. But that’s only when they do decide to sell…
There is a flipside in this for dealers, though. Once car sales do start to recover, you may be seeing better-prepared trade-ins come to you, while standards of auction stock may also rise. Meaning less spend on reconditioning before models go on sale.
Autoglym’s tips for a professional car wash
• Thoroughly rinse before washing: Grit particles can scratch paintwork.
• Wash wheels first: Use wheel cleaner and a stiff brush to shift brake dust
• Soak baked-on dirt before trying to remove.
• Use a good quality shampoo: Make sure it does not dry onto paintwork.
• Dry the exterior well to avoid water marks.
• Polish the car: If time is tight, spray on Autoglym’s Aqua Wax when the car is still wet, and then buff the car dry.
• Clean glasswork inside and out.
• For a deep and lustrous shine, apply Autoglym High-Definition Wax.
