Appearance Does Matter: Tips to Protect the Value of Your VehicleReap the Rewards of Routine Cleaning and Car Care
CHICAGO, May 28 /PRNewswire/ -- With the rising price of gas and food, a difficult job market and declining home values, the last thing many Americans are thinking about is purchasing a new vehicle. In fact, according to Autodata Corp., overall U.S. automotive sales fell 14% in April 2008, marking the lowest automotive sales volume since August 1998. Now, more than ever, it is important for consumers to protect the value of their investment with proper vehicle maintenance, including up-keep of appearance. Most consumers know that proper performance maintenance, such as regular oil changes and tune-ups, influence a vehicle's long-term drivability. But when it comes to determining a car or truck's sale or trade-in value, appearance is as important as what's under the hood. The condition of a vehicle's exterior and interior is a strong indication whether it has been well-maintained and can significantly alter its worth. "Any type of foreign material that sits on the interior or exterior of a vehicle can alter the surface and lead to permanent damage, which can decrease the value of your vehicle," said Mike Schultz, senior vice president of product development for Turtle Wax(R). "Since many people are holding on to their cars longer, it is becoming increasingly important to establish a routine regiment to maintain a vehicle's appearance. Not only does it help the car look better, but it also enhances the car's value when it does come time to sell or trade-in." To keep vehicles looking great and help protect their value, Turtle Wax offers the following maintenance tips:
* Wash your car every other week. No matter the season, regular
washing helps prevent bugs, tar, road grime and other damaging
elements from eroding the finish and becoming a long-term fixture on
the vehicle's exterior. Do not use dish soap to wash the vehicle --
dish soap dulls the finish and strips the car of shine. Instead,
choose a car wash product with a clean rinsing formula that is safe
for all finishes.
* Apply car wax as needed. Not only does waxing help restore color and
shine, it leaves behind a protective barrier to help prevent
scratches, swirl marks and other imperfections that can permanently
damage the vehicle's paint and finish. Water will bead on a properly
waxed surface. When beads do not form, it is time to apply another
coat of wax. For best results, select a wax or polish that offers
long lasting protection and durability.
* Pay attention to other exterior surfaces. In addition to the
vehicle's finish, protecting and cleaning wheels, exterior plastics
and molding will help keep your car looking like new. Use a wheel
product to remove and help prevent buildup of break dust and road
grime, which can permanently adhere to wheels and rims. For plastic
and rubber surfaces, use a product that will restore and protect the
materials' finish.
* Don't forget the inside counts, too. It's just as easy to notice
areas of neglect on the interior of a vehicle. To prevent stains and
permanent discoloration, clean interior surfaces, including
carpeting, upholstery and inside door panels on a regular basis.
Similar to car wax, interior products will leave behind protective
barriers, making the surface easier to clean next time around and
more difficult for stains to set in.
"Many people don't know where to start when it comes to properly maintaining the appearance of their vehicle," said Schultz. "The truth is, when you use the right products it doesn't have to be a bothersome task. The new Turtle Wax(R) ICE(R) line of products feature innovative technology to cut down on time and effort needed restore and maintain your vehicle's factory fresh appearance. It is completely different from other car care products and is designed to achieve showroom shine and flawless finish every time." For more information about available car care products for interior and exterior surfaces, visit http://www.turtlewax.com. This Web site offers a product selection tool to help users choose the right products for their vehicle and car care needs. About Turtle Wax Turtle Wax(R) is the number one selling brand of car care products in the world with sales in 90 countries. Founded more than 60 years ago in Chicago, the company is recognized for manufacturing environmentally-friendly appearance and performance car care products for the retail consumer market and the commercial car care and professional detailing industries.
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