RV Repairs & Upgrades that increase Value
There are some steps you can take to boost your RV’s resale value and keep it in the best shape possible as you head out on new adventures. In addition to making sure that your RV undergoes regular maintenance to stay road-ready, there are things you can do to the interior to increase appeal.
Why RV Repairs Increase RV Value
Over the past couple of years, you probably either hit the road with your RV or camper more than usual or you may have bought one for the very first time. You may notice that when living in your RV part-time, it begins to show some wear and tear very quickly. We’ve put together a few repairs and upgrade ideas that can not only help you maintain your RV value but increase your value and help get prepared for your fall/winter adventures or the next upcoming season.
Now, while you might consider your RV an extension of your home where valuable family memories are made, you also realize that, like any automobile, it is a depreciating asset. It is very likely that your RV lost 10 - 30% of its value the minute you drove it off the lot. Class A RVs will lose up to 50% of it’s value after a decade in service, according to J.D. Power, which is a leading vehicle data and information provider.
Depreciation
There are many factors that influence a camper’s depreciation. Understanding these factors can help you maintain your RV’s value. The hardest depreciating factor to combat is time. While mileage does not play a significant role in the value of your recreational vehicle, time certainly does.
There are some steps you can take to boost your RV’s resale value and keep it in the best shape possible as you head out on new adventures. In addition to making sure that your RV undergoes regular maintenance to stay road-ready, there are things you can do to the interior to increase appeal. This is where Color Glo International comes in…
Upgrades That Increase Sale Price
Reupholster the furniture
RV upholstery is built to withstand the elements, but normal use or wear and tear and the damaging rays of the sun can cause fading and blemishes. Ensuring your upholstery is in prime condition by making repairs will dress up your RV interior.
Change the carpet
If your RV has carpet, you may want to replace it when it starts to show signs of wear. Children, pets, and outdoor debris can do a big number on the carpet in your recreational vehicle. Carpet is also known to trap unpleasant odors and bacteria. In addition to vacuuming regularly, replacing our carpet can go a long way to making your RV shine with glory!
Replace window coverings
Having the proper window coverings or blinds offers privacy and can help protect your interiors from damaging UV rays. As manufacturers improve the quality of window coverings, staying on top of the latest styles and quality trends can make a buyer take notice.
Update cabinetry
You’ve had your RV for years - let’s face it, the styles change. What once was chic and functional is now old and archaic. Cabinets that were cutting edge now look dated and worn. It’s not cost-effective to replace them, but swapping out the hardware is a simple way to give them an upgrade and bolster your resale value. In a similar vein, adding a peel-and-stick backsplash can brighten up your RV’s appearance and give it a contemporary touch.
Who doesn’t want that??
Sanitize the cabin
If your RV gets used, then you’ve probably wondered “what is that smell”?if you have dogs, cats, children (or spouses), then it’s likely stuff just doesn’t smell fresh. Furthermore, the average steering wheel contains several times more dirt, grime, and bacteria than the average public restroom. Getting your RV sanitized at least once a season will ensure it’s free of germs and that it stays in tip-top shape for the next adventure.
Add storage
If you have space in your RV that can be repurposed or maybe a corner or wall with dead space behind it that doesn’t make sense, then consider adding more storage and opening everything up. Keeping things stowed properly and in an organized fashion will help you declutter and appear more attractive to potential buyers.
RV Pro Tip ***
Often when people buy used RVs or even larger motorhomes, their first inclination is to rip out some of the built-in seating. Try to resist… One of the best ways to ramp up the value of your RV is to have plenty of sleeping spaces. You might like the look of a modern sofa or freestanding table, but unless it can convert to a bed, it will only decrease the attractiveness of the vehicle.
Request a free quote
Color Glo International can help with many upgrades inside of your RV. Some of our specialties are actually in categories above and beyond the basics mentioned above. We can bring the yellow tinge on your headlamps back to crystal clear. We can refurbish your leather, vinyl, and upholstery while working on-site, at your location. Burns, fading, tears, etc, will all be restored to new, saving you up to 70% over buying new.
Contact a Color Glo Specialist about your RV restoration project.
How To Restore Your Car Headlights To New
If your headlights are looking dingy, you can restore them with household supplies. Auto shops can be fairly expensive and provide lackluster results in some cases. We recommend contacting your local Color Glo headlight restoration, specialist for a professionally done, long-lasting job that cost less than the auto shop and saves you frustration.
Restore your headlights
Are you car headlights looking a bit foggy? It's an inevitable part of owning an automobile for a period of time; the plastic picks up residue, endures weather and fades. This fogginess is due to oxidation on the lens (polycarbonate is a porous material). Once oxidation begins to take place, it can quickly degrade the headlight lens. It's important to have clear headlights for many reasons. The obvious one is for your safety during night driving, but it can also be a major factor in the resell value of your car.
If your headlights are looking dingy, you can restore them with household supplies. Auto shops can be fairly expensive and provide lackluster results in some cases. We recommend contacting your local Color Glo headlight restoration, specialist for a professionally done, long-lasting job that cost less than the auto shop and saves you frustration.
Headlight Restoration
by Color Glo International
What you'll need to restore headlights
To start, you'll need to get a few things organized:
You will need a 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch drill, insulated and preferably not battery powered unless it turns at least 1300 RPM no load. (The ideal speed is 1300 RPM, a battery powered drill that turns 1300 RPM no load will turn about 1000 RPM with a load. Lesser speeds will work they will simply lengthen the process a bit. Do not worry about exact speeds.)
A spray bottle full of water with the nozzle set on spray vs. stream.
A clean soft rag plus a lint-free cloth.
2-inch blue painters tape.
The Process
Tape off your headlights with the painter's tape to protect the paint around the headlight enclosure. Again, we suggest 2-inch painters tape. This will keep the sanding disc from damaging the hood in the event you get too close.
Image: Viralnova.com
Put your back into it
The next step involves sanding the surface. Some like to use sandpaper; Color Glo specialists use sanding discs on a drill for an evener surface cover. When working with Color Glo, our specialists will place an 180 disc onto the backup pad, then onto the drill. You'll wet the headlight with your spray bottle full of water. You should also wet the sanding surface or paper. Next, sand the headlight until there is an even haze. Rinse with water.
Color Glo specialists will repeat this process five more times until ending with a 4000-grit pad on the drill. You can totally go through this process on your own. You will invest money into the initial products if you don't already have them. You'll also spend a good chunk of your Saturday afternoon, perfecting your process. If you're ambitious, we say go for it. If you'd like to restore your headlights or do automotive restoration on-site and affordably, then simply give us a call. We help thousands of customers at their homes, garages, and businesses with industry-leading, efficient time frames, and costs.
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Color Restoration and So Much More
Color Glo International is the world leader in restoration and repair of leather, vinyl, velour, cloth and hard plastics commonly found in the markets of automotive, aircraft, marine and furniture. Formally incorporated in 1975 Color Glo began franchising in 1982. Today we can be found in hundreds of markets throughout world. Color Glo products are proven everyday to offer the correct results and best value every time they are put to the test.
Color restoration and more
Color Glo International is the world leader in restoration and repair of leather, vinyl, velour, cloth and hard plastics commonly found in the markets of automotive, aircraft, marine and furniture. Formally incorporated in 1975 Color Glo began franchising in 1982. Today we can be found in hundreds of markets throughout world. Color Glo products are proven everyday to offer the correct results and best value every time they are put to the test.
We initially began our franchising in the United States and have since then expanded into Canada and over 50 countries worldwide. Our focus is restoring and repairing common defects such as worn and faded interior components such as leather upholstery, headliners, burns and broken plastic or composite molding. These problems are found in the interior of every automobile, RV, truck sports vehicle, plane or boat in use today. You can learn a bit more about How RV Owners and Dealers Benefit From Color Glo.
A Little Bit of History
Since it’s beginning in 1975, Color Glo has become the recognized leader in the mobile automotive reconditioning industry. Founded by Everett C. Smith to address the growing demands, Color Glo has from the very beginning been the benchmark of this industry. Having been in the reconditioning industry for years, Mr. Smith knew that the existing products were not of the quality he would need to build a strong and successful brand. Although it was very costly and challenging, he decided that for his company, the only direction that would satisfy his pursuit of perfection and quality was to formulate his own line of exclusive and proprietary products.
Color Glo opened their own research and development labs to formulate the best products in this industry. He hired chemists that had strong backgrounds in new product formulation and research, and over a period of several years is team developed the original Color Glo proprietary line of restoration and repair products. Today the original 8 products in the line have grown to over 100 different and unique products. Each of the over 100 products are developed and selected to work seamlessly within the Color Glo system.
What We Do
This table gives you an overview of the materials we fix, where they’re found and the specific problems we can repair, restore or re-dye. We can find a solution for any problems that arise where these materials are found.
Color Glo Specialists
Our Color Glo franchises are located around the globe. In the US our 75+ franchises are all mobile units. They come to you! Color Glo's mobile-based technicians will come to your home, office or other location to repair damaged plastic, vinyl, leather, fabric and upholstery. Worn, torn, stained, burned, scratched or otherwise damaged materials can be restored to like new for just a fraction of the cost of replacement.
We are located internationally in over 50 countries. These are location-based shops, set up to provide complete and professional repair and restoration services.
You can find all our CGI International franchises on our website location finder under “Locations”.
Renewable Resources
A very relevant attribute to Color Glo is our commitment to the environment and our commitment to be a green company. Color Glo’s process uses specially formulated proprietary water based and environmentally friendly, non flammable, odor free products.
Our environment is a growing concern and special factors are often taken into consideration when a potential customer is choosing a company for repair and/or restoration. This is where Color Glo comes in. Special attention given now to these considerations can be used to our advantage highlighting the continued implementation and research Color Glo International Environmental impact of products (subject to strict quality controls according to ASTM standards) that led to the creation of color-based eco-friendly, water based, odorless and nontoxic products.
Our environmental policy is based on the belief that no one operates in isolation. Everyone shares the same earth, and everything we do matters to those around us. At Color Glo International, we put people first. The health, safety, and welfare of our customers, employees, and the people of the communities we serve are paramount. That is why we take our commitment to environmental stewardship seriously and have developed specific principles to guide us in our work. At Color Glo, we will ensure that our employees & franchisees have the training, skills and knowledge necessary to adhere to these principles.
Color Restoration and So Much More
Color Glo international and Color Glo franchisees world-wide are specialists in color restoration and repair of vinyl surfaces, accessories and furniture. Color Glo specialists are available to help restore your valuable property. We offer an on-site service, safety and convenience, eliminating the downtime of transport and ensuring our best work. Our work is permanent and environmentally safe. Color Glo specialists use non-flammable, odorless, water-based products that dry quickly.
Keep your investment for years to come. Revitalize. Restore. Save money. Contact us today for more information.
The Benefits of Refurbishing Fleet Vehicles
If you’re in the business of fleet vehicles, then you know that the unknown variable of mechanical, auto-body and refurbishment repairs can be devilish. They crop up at the least expected times and cause your vehicles to be out of service, thus costing you money.
Refurbishing Fleet Vehicles Works
If you’re in the business of fleet vehicles, then you know that the unknown variable of mechanical, auto-body and refurbishment repairs can be devilish. They crop up at the least expected times and cause your vehicles to be out of service, thus costing you money.
When fleet vehicles is your business, you either have an in-house automotive repair shop and auto-body repair shop or you have a list of tried and true vendors that work at your speed and budget.
But what about the rest?
Whether you’re buying a fleet of used vehicles or fixing up the ones with miles on them, you’re going to run into decisions to replace or restore. For many, restoration is not a consideration because the benefits are not second nature. At Color Glo International, we are experts in the business of fleet vehicle refurbishment and restoration for “the rest”. Your mechanical and auto-body repairs can often take a day if not only hours, but when faced with cleaning the vehicle up to make the driving experience good for drivers - the time out of service can be a bit lengthier, thus costing you money.
What does this mean for my bottom line?
Your vehicles not only need to run well, but look good and function well. Things tend to fall apart over time, headlights yellow, leather and fabric get torn, the dash fades from the sun, the carpeting gets worn out from foot wear.
If you happen to be in the business of tractors for semi trucks and hauling, buying used and refurbishing can save you between $40,000 - $50,000 per tractor when you consider refurbishing the entire tractor. Your color and fabric restoration from Color Glo can save you up to 70% of the cost of replacing fabric, leather and plastic items.
The professionals at Color Glo can help
Color Glo specialists come to you. We've been doing it for over 45 years and have built incredible relationships with fleet vehicle companies and their customers. All of our repairs are done on-site, meaning you can stay busy with your fleet in service while we get them ready to hit the road. You don't have to transport them anywhere, wait for the repair or lose precious time in sales.
Our franchisees can fix just about anything. With Color Glo, you can make one call to fix almost everything in the dash, seating, interior, headlights and some exterior paneling. We repair and restore vinyl, leather, fabric, plastic, and carpet to a like-new condition.
Think of it as a full makeover. If you're looking to sell your home, you may hire a professional painter to give a brand new feel and give the rooms a flow that leads you through the house. The emotional piece of spending money is very real when it comes to homes, cars, RV's and other items of large expense. In your fleet vehicles, Color Glo can dye surfaces like vinyl, plastic, leather, rubber and more. We can also repair and restore scratches, tears, and burns to new.
Putting a fresh coat of paint inside a home you’re looking to sell is one of the easiest ways to spruce a place up, so why not do the same for the interior and some exterior elements of your fleet vehicles?
Repair vs. Replace
Repairing and restoring the features on your fleet of previously-owned or in-service vehicles can help make the cost of replacement cheaper. In fact, it will be much less in most cases. You can expect to see as much as a 70% savings when restoring to new with Color Glo and you can extend the life an enjoyment of your fleet.
Are you a fleet vehicle business that needs an on-site restoration specialist?
How RV Dealers & Owners Benefit from Color Glo
Summertime is upon us and that means that RV sales will soon be ramping up for the fall. "Recreational vehicles (RVs), caravans, campers, vans or motorhomes - whatever size they are and whatever you call them, they are back and picking up a new generation of eager fans just wanting to hit the road", according to CNN.
RV's Owners benefit from Color Glo
Summertime is upon us and that means that RV sales will soon be ramping up for the fall. "Recreational vehicles (RVs), caravans, campers, vans or motorhomes - whatever size they are and whatever you call them, they are back and picking up a new generation of eager fans just wanting to hit the road", according to CNN.
Recent surveys taken in 2017 at dealerships across the U.S., in Europe, and in Canada are reporting that they are seeing younger and younger buyers. There are definitely a couple of reasons for this – first vehicles, particularly the smaller 'value' models that offer a lot of flexibility, are being designed with a younger demographic in mind.
Dealers also are not alone in this surge of growth. The recreational vehicle industry association (RVIA) reports that the RV rental business is a $350+ million sector that will continue to grow as more baby boomers retire and hit the road as well.
What does this mean for dealers?
This boom and a continued surge in the RV industry has led to increased competition for dealers and renters to move their units quickly. Ensuring their vehicles are in tip-top shape is critical to this mission and it's also a very important factor to the millenial generation.
Purchasing a previously-owned vehicle or renting one can be a very cost-effective way for customers to enjoy the RV life, traveling, etc. But giving consumers the feeling that they are in a new RV can be the difference between moving your inventory or losing out to the competition.
The professional at Color Glo can help
Color Glo specialists come to you. We've been doing it for over 45 years and have built incredible relationships with recreational vehicle dealers and their customers. All of our repairs are done on-site, meaning you can stay busy selling and renting your RVs while we get them ready to show. You don't have to transport them anywhere, wait for the repair or lose precious time in sales.
Our franchisees can fix just about anything. With Color Glo, you can make one call to fix almost everything in the dash, seating, interior, headlights and some exterior paneling. We repair and restore vinyl, leather, fabric, plastic, and carpet to a like-new condition.
Think of it as a full makeover. If you're looking to sell your home, you may hire a professional painter to give a brand new feel and give the rooms a flow that leads you through the house. The emotional piece of spending money is very real when it comes to home, cars, RV's and other items of large expense. In your RV's, Color Glo can dye surfaces like vinyl, plastic, leather, rubber and more. We can also repair and restore scratches, tears, and burns to new.
Putting a fresh coat of paint inside a home you’re looking to sell is one of the easiest ways to spruce a place up, so why not do the same for the interior of the RV? Color Glo can dye any items in the interior made of vinyl, leather, plastic or fabric.
Repair vs. Replace
Repairing and restoring the features on your fleet of previously-owned recreational vehicles can help make the cost of replacement cheaper. In fact, it will be much less in most cases. You can expect to see as much as a 70% savings when restoring to new with Color Glo and you can demand top dollar for your slightly used RV's.
Are you an RV Dealer that needs an on-site restoration specialist?
How to Clean Your Automobile's Interior Wood Trim
Wooden trim can really bring the class level of your automobile investments to a new level but if its not cleaned and cared for properly (like all other parts of your car) it will begin to look faded and tired, and can leave the overall impression of your interior looking drab.
Cleaning interior wooden trim
Ahh wooden trim... Think classic jaguar. Wooden trim can really bring the class level of your automobile investments to a new level but if its not cleaned and cared for properly (like all other parts of your car) it will begin to look faded and tired, and can leave the overall impression of your interior looking drab.
If your wooden trim is excessively dirty or has been left unattended and it has build up on it, then it should be thoroughly cleaned with a diluted all purpose cleaner and a microfiber towel. Using soft-bristled detailing brushes can also be used to access tight areas, corners and curves. It is important when using an all purpose cleaner that you ensure you thoroughly remove all residue and do not allow it to dry anywhere on the trim.
Next Step
After contaminants, dust, and grime have been cleaned off you will be able to see the true condition of the wooden trim. If it has become oxidized or lightly scratched/swirled over time you can polish it to remove these imperfections.
An all in one polish product made for the paintwork of your car may ideal for polishing wooden trim. A small amount should be applied to a sponge or microfiber applicator pad, then worked into the trim using both circular and linear motions. Once the polish has dried it should be buffed off with a soft microfiber towel.
“An all in one polish product made for the paintwork of your car may ideal for polishing wooden trim.”
While polishing your wood, you should be careful not to contaminate the surrounding trim with polish residue. In fact taping off the trim with painters tape may be a good idea depending on the car.
If the trim has been neglected over a considerable amount of time you may need to repeat the polishing process a number of times until the trim has been restored to a satisfactory standard.
Some classics may have wooden steering wheels.
What do I do now?
You've polished; what now? After polishing, your wooden trim can be waxed with a good quality natural carnauba based product. This will help to protect and seal the trim. It will also bring out the clarity of the grain in the wood and vastly enhance the reflections of the clear coat. The wax should be applied via a sponge or microfiber applicator pad, left to cure, then buffed off with a clean, soft microfiber towel. You'll want to ensure again that you do not contaminate any of the surrounding trim with wax residue or your job will become a bit more involved...
Maintenance is key
After your wooden trim has been cleaned, polished and protected it should be routinely maintained. Owning an automobile is either a passion or a pain for many people and wooden trim can increase your time invested. It needs be properly maintained along with the rest of the interior of your car to keep it looking its best. It should be vacuumed off using a soft brush attachment to remove any dust and loose contaminants, then wiped over with a soft microfiber towel and a detailing spray. Using a detailing spray works very well in maintaining interior wooden trim. You may want to read our other advice on how to clean the interior of your car.
If you find that you have a problem with your trim attracting allot of dust and other loose debris soon after it has been cleaned. This could be due to static that has been created from buffing it with a microfiber towel. A good way to combat this problem is to use an anti-static screen cleaner that is designed to clean computer monitors, mobile phone screens and other similar surfaces. The cleaner should be misted over the surface then lightly wiped over with a fine, soft lint free cloth.
For more reading, check out how to clean plastic exterior car parts.
Want to hire a professional?
How to Clean Plastic Exterior Car Parts
Your car has a lot of exterior plastic (believe it or not), which may require a different approach than the interior of your car. Knowing what to use is key, as plastic can be discolored or adopt a permanent haze if you're not real careful.
How to clean plastic car parts
We've talked about how to clean the exterior of your car in the past, and even the leather seats and upholstery. We also covered how to clean your car's interior plastic parts. But what about all the exterior plastic parts that weather the elements?
Your car's plastic will build up dirt and dust naturally just by moving and operating or even sitting there. Your clean natural clean tendencies are simply not enough. By cleaning your car's exterior as well as the interior, you can keep it looking newer much longer. Very good for resale and very good for you as you cruise the strip.
Your car has a lot of exterior plastic (believe it or not), which may require a different approach than the interior of your car. Knowing what to use is key, as plastic can be discolored or adopt a permanent haze if you're not real careful. Many years ago, we had to be careful not to confuse rubbing compound for turtle wax... Well, with today's chemicals and endless options, you'll want to excercise the same caution when clean your car's plastic parts.
Your potential for failure :-)
Your car is made of several types of materials, though most of the parts that are for aesthetics or looks are plastic. Plastic is used because it is easily molded to a desired shape and can be tinted to match the vehicle’s color. It can also be painted to match. Plastic parts range in purpose including:
Molded plastic parts for door panels or quarter panels.
Close-out panels designed to block mechanical parts from view.
Smooth, painted components such as bumper covers and trim areas.
Textured plastic parts.
Soft-touch plastics for attractive interior/exterior finishing.
“A general rule of thumb is painted plastic on the exterior of your car can be cleaned in the same fashion as the rest of your paint.”
Plastic components can (and do) get dirty just like the rest of your vehicle. Common offenders are oil from the road, dust, and debris, and potentially even food, beverages, bugs and more. Plastic may need to be treated differently than the rest of your car depending on its composition and finish.
Clean the textured plastic exterior parts
Textured black plastic on the exterior of your car is typically very rich in color. And whether they are black, grey, or tinted to match the rest of your auto's paint job, they can fade from the sun. Textured black plastic is typically used for parts such as mud guards, unpainted bumpers, windshield wiper cowls and other similar accessories.
You'll notice when this fading has happened because what used to be deep and rich will now appear to have a white tinge or cloudiness to it.
Your plastic can be restored.
Materials Needed
Clean lint-free cloth
Plastic trim cleaner (we recommend a Color Glo product that your local color restoration specialist will use when working on your project).
Trim brush or toothbrush
Image: Your Mechanic
Step 1:
Apply the cleaner. Apply a quarter-sized drop of trim cleaner directly to the plastic part. Work in small sections just like when you're washing your car. So don’t use a spot of cleaner larger than a quarter and keep your work area tight and controlled.
Step 2:
Brush in the cleaner. Brush the cleaner into the trim with a small, plastic-bristled brush or toothbrush - everybody keeps these around for just this purpose. First spread the cleaner thinly over as large a section as you can with the brush. Then, brush the wetted spot with the brush until the plastic underneath appears un-faded and even. You'll be surprised.. it will come right out.
Step 3:
Wipe the area dry. Wipe the spot dry with a clean, lint-free cloth, removing any remaining cleaner and dirt. And that's it! From here you can read up on how to clean the exterior of your car to bring the entire vehicle back to new.
Want to hire a professional?
How To Clean Plastic Interior Car Parts
There is more to cleaning a car than just filling up a bucket with mild soapy water, scrubbing it down and rinsing it off. The plastic interior needs to be kept clean as well. Follow our simple tips to dust, clean, and restore yoru plastic car parts.
How to clean plastic car parts
We've talked about how to clean the exterior of your car in the past, and even the leather seats and upholstery. But what about your plastic car parts?
Well, there is more to cleaning a car than just filling up a bucket with mild soapy water, scrubbing it down and rinsing it off. The plastic interior needs to be kept clean as well. Your car's plastic will build up dirt and dust naturally just by moving and operating or even sitting there. Your clean natural clean tendencies are simply not enough. By cleaning your car's interior, you can keep it looking newer much longer, which is good for resale and good for you.
Your car has both interior and exterior plastic, which may require some different methods. You just need to make sure you are using the right products on your plastic interior.
You can keep your classic car or sports car looking this good with a little bit of TLC.
What you need to clean interior plastic
Vacuum the interior first. Before you begin this project, vacuum out your car to remove any debris, dirt, and dust. Your cleaning products of choice will perform much better if you take care to vacuum before getting started. You can avoid scratching your plastic dash and other areas by using the soft brush attachment.
Remove the floor mats BEFORE your start to vacuum.
Take extra care around vents, knobs, and accessories. You can damage these easily if you're not paying attention.
“Vacuum out your car first, to remove any debris, dirt, and dust”
Cleaning the interior
Dust the plastic. Use a soft damp cloth (water only) or soft hand-held dust mop (available in the car care section of any grocery or discount store) to clear away dust. Some people use a vinegar solution for this too. Generally speaking, this should be ok as vinegar is a non-abrasive natural cleaner but depending on the composition of the plastic, you may find that it leaves a residue. With today's composite materials and expensive replacement costs, sticking to water is a great option.
A small, soft-bristled paintbrush works well to clear dust from crevices around the gear shift and hand brake, the radio controls and other tight spaces where dust can settle. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and Q-tips to clean crevices and hard to reach areas.
Tip. If you used a damp cloth, go back with a dry soft cloth to dry the plastic.
Photo: Your Mechanic
Treating stains on plastic
If your plastic is stained, apply a very small amount of mild soap, laundry detergent, or plastic auto cleaner to a damp cloth. If you need advice on what auto cleaner to use, just ask your local Color Glo Specialist.
Never apply any cleaning solution directly to the plastic. Wipe the area until it is clean and follow it up with a clean, dry rag. If you cloth begins to show dirt, turn it to a clean spot otherwise you'll simply be in the business of re-distributing dirt.
Tip. Always apply any cleaner to an inconspicuous spot to test how it may react to your plastic.
Image: Wikihow
Keeping your shine
Apply a protectant. Once your plastic is cleaned, you should apply a protectant. For DIY'rs, you can visit the automotive section of of any larger retailer or auto parts store to get some advice on what might be a good option. Always apply sprays or chemicals to your cloth or rag vs. directly on the plastic. You'll avoid spots and over-treated areas. Replace your cloth or applicator as necessary.
Use a polish. To add some shine to your plastic, use a plastic polish. Or you can use some natural products such as olive oil or boiled linseed oil. Put some oil or polish on a soft cloth and then rub it into the plastic. Then use a clean soft cloth to rub away any excess product. Boiled linseed oil can be purchase from a hardware or paint store. You can find your favorite strength of virgin olive oil at your favorite grocer.
Tip. If you find a good all-in-one product that you like, you can cut down the amount of products you use and potentially some cost. They are out there.
Need to hire a professional?
How To Clean the Exterior of Your Car Like a Pro
When it comes to washing your car, its a love/hate relationship. But as simple as washing your car may seem, there are some things to watch for so that you don't accidentally scratch or degrade the finish. Check out these tips.
How to wash your car
When it comes to washing your car, its a love/hate relationship. You either enjoy your vehicle as a hobby and it is your pride and joy or you hate the thought of even cleaning a floor mat and just assume it rot where it sits. So here are some tips for the enthusiast to clean your car's exterior like a pro.
Are there general guidelines I should follow?
Yes. If you're in the category of enthusiast and washing your car is chicken soup for your soul, then you know there are some things you need to think about. Washing your car can be easy and enjoyable and regular washing helps a new paint job keep its luster. But as simple as washing your car may seem, there are some things to watch for so that you don't accidentally scratch or degrade the finish. Below are some basic car-washing tips.
Shade is your friend. Your vehicle’s surface needs to be cool. If the car is hot, the soap suds will dry too quickly, staining the surface and requiring another wash. Enjoying washing your car goes as far as doing it one time on your afternoon off.
Pre-soak. Pre-soak your vehicle to remove grime, bug shrapnel, and heavy contaminants like rocks, water bottles, McDonald's wrappers and bunny remains.
DO use mild liquid soap and a soft car wash mitt or some other towel designed to respect your paint job's luster. Renew your water regularly.
Patience young Jedi. Many times, we just soap up the entire car and get to work. Negative ghost rider - wash one section at a time, and then rinse it off. You should start with the roof of the car, then proceed to the hood and the rear. It makes perfect sense to go top-down rather than create more work for yourself.
Next, clean the upper quarter panels, then move to the lower areas, including the rocker panels. The lower area of your car will always have extra "stuff" on it and the longer pre-soak as you work your way down will help eliminate this crud. The top to bottom sequence is also important because you run the risk of having small pieces of debris adhere to the mitt or sponge which may scratch your vehicle.Hose off your mitt! This is the toughest piece of advice because it is a human diligence requirement. We all want to just put the mitt or cloth back in our water and rinse it there while soaking up some more soapy water. This is bad! Always hose off your mitt or sponge before putting it back in the wash bucket to re-soap. Start with clean water and end with clean water. Dipping your dirty mitt into your bucket, just helps you apply the grime right back onto your automobile. If you've every wondered why the car is streaking while you're washing it, this may be your answer.
Rinse, rinse, rinse. Rinse your vehicle thoroughly and all over. When you feel satisfied and think you're finally done rinsing, go ahead and rinse it one more time.
Rims and tires. Your car washing drawer should have a few different mitts and cloths in it. We heavily suggest using a different mitt to clean the tires and rims of your car then the body. Using a separate mitt for the wheels will reduce the chance that you’ll scratch the car’s paint with brake dust and dirt you pick up from the rims. You'd be surprised how many people just use the same water and same mitts for washing and rinsing everything. You might as well drive right to the auto body shop when you're done.
Wheels. Ahhh, your pride and joy. Be very cautious when cleaning wheels, especially if you’re using a spray-on wheel cleaner. Wheels can be extremely hot if the car has just been driven or sitting in the sun. When you spray wheel cleaning chemicals on hot metal, the chemicals will vaporize and you will inevitably inhale them. Needless to say, this is not good for you health routine and depending on temperature and the chemical, you could cause some damage to products like Chrome or special coatings.
DON'T buy the pricey automotive cleaners. Instead, use a mild, liquid soap that is well diluted. This will accomplish everything you need, such as removing dirt, grease, and films without damaging plastics or other materials. Some people use household soaps but you also need to be careful to not use a harsh detergent. Stick to mild soaps and if possible find one that is safe for cars. The huge benefit is that it will cost you pennies over the heavily marketed auto detailing brands.
The drying process. Dry your vehicle immediately to prevent water spots. Chamois work very well and can help you move quickly through a vehicle that may have the sun on it.
What's next after I wash my car?
You should follow your wash process by waxing and cleaning the windows both inside and out. Applying wax to your car is like putting sunscreen on your skin. It adds a layer of protection from UV rays to prevent fading, as well as anything that may land on the paint.
You will be able to preserve your high gloss finish for a much longer span of time. You can find wax in a carnauba or polymer form. Both types of wax perform the same, but a polymer wax won't haze as it dries and can usually be wiped off soon after applying. The choice between using carnauba or polymer wax is similar to choosing synthetic or regular engine oil. A polymer is a bit more expensive but is easier to apply and some say performs better.
For the glass, the rules are pretty simple. Stay away from what you inherently want to do which is to grab Windex and other household glass cleaners. They can contain ammonia which can damage your car's window tint. Use an auto window cleaner for best results and wipe down twice to ensure the cleaner is removed. In a pinch, you can use a diluted white vinegar solution as it's a natural, low-cost, healthy household cleaner that should be fairly streak-free.
Last thoughts and tips...
Don't... move your sponge or mitt in circles. This can create light, but noticeable scratches called swirl marks. Instead, move the sponge lengthwise across the hood and other body panels. If you drop your sponge, rinse it thoroughly. Never reapply a sponge that has hit the ground or gone into polluted soapy water. Take that extra time to change out your bucket.
Maintain a shine. If you're going to lose sleep at night because the thought of pulling your freshly waxed car out to run an errand or (God forbid) go to work, then you may want to keep some supplies on hand to maintain your shine. There are several spray mists out there designed to remove daily debris and keep your wax job in top form. Toss this and a micro-fiber cloth in the trunk and you're armed and ready.
Headlights
For headlights that are sun-faded, full of crud, or just plain old, you can check out our guide on "How To Restore Your Car Headlights to New".
If your car is nearing that "vintage" stage or you just can't bear to part with it, but it's an eyesore, you may want to recondition it. You can read about the difference between detailing and reconditioning your car.
Should I Use Silicone Based Conditioners In My Auto Interior?
You should pass. Let's talk about out auto leather conditioner for a bit. Car leather today is the product of advanced engineering and manufacturing. It is highly resistant to wear and tear and daily use and abuse.
Top questions about cleaning leather
- Does my leather really need conditioning?
- What kind of conditioners are best?
- What about cleaning my car leather?
Color Glo specialists work to repair worn auto interiors and bring them back to life.
Starting With The Basics
With decades of experience in cleaning and refurbishing surfaces, we've learned a few things along the way. The single most important thing to remember is that we live in a marketing society that is overloaded with information - much of it incorrect. So how do you disect what is good and bad for you care interior, for your boat interior, for the health of your home, for your family... You catch our drift...
"In Our Opinion", based on experience
Research has only confirmed that leathers of today are not the leathers of yesterday. Hopefully, you've come to this same conclusion with many products in your life. Today's modern pigments, dyes and finishing processes have produced a car leather that is very resistant to the wear and tear that leather must endure inside the operating environment of our families, our jobs and our recreation vehicles.
This also means that the days of searching for the best auto leather conditioner are mostly a thing of the past. Since many of you may be "old dogs" and since old rules die very slow deaths, you will likely continue your search for the best auto leather conditioner that your money can buy, regardless of updated teachings.
Quest on my friend.
About cleaning leather interior
- Virtually all car leathers used today are finished with a clear protective coating that is applied for protection and durability of the leather. What does this mean? It means you will actually be cleaning, treating, or conditioning a clear protective layer that is made up of different types of resins, polymers, synthetics. The point is that you are not dealing with the actual leather, but the clear protective layer; just like the clear coat on your car paint.
- Keeping your car leather clean is the most important and critical part of the health and beauty of your car leather. In the experience of Color Glo professionals, keeping your leather clean and safe from elements consistently over the life of the car can keep your interior looking just like new 10 years later.
- With all that said, SOME auto leather conditioners can still play a role in the health and beauty of your car's leather interiors. Do your homework or ask your local Color Glo specialist.
So let's get to it
As mentioned, if you want your chariot to look clean and new for its lifetime, then weekly cleaning of its interior is a key point here, specifically for your leather. So what are the essentials?
Leather Care
Color Glo International specializes in leather cleaning and refurbishing.
If you have an older car, you just might have leather that is un-coated with modern day clear coats. Your high-end luxury exotic has a completely different technology behind it's leather pilot's seats than your 1964 Ford Fairlane that took you on Friday night pink slip laps around the neighborhood.
Silicone dressing for automobile interior.
You should pass. Let's talk about out auto leather conditioner for a bit. Car leather today is the product of advanced engineering and manufacturing. It is highly resistant to wear and tear and daily use and abuse. Most of us that are in our early 40's and beyond, remember the day of hard cracked leather seats, hot surfaces, and deep conditioning. Gone are these days.
The thoughts of massaging some magically engineered car leather conditioner into our car leather that can take it from a state of wear to gleaming new, is the stuff of legends. These philosophies still sit deep-rooted in our society's heads, but in reality, this is clever marketing to keep you buying into manufacturer's "kool-aid".
- Don't think you can apply auto leather conditioner without cleaning your leather first. The only exception is if your car is literally brand new. There will always be some form of dirt regardless of how clean your leather looks...so make sure you clean it first. Talk to your local Color Glo professional about mild cleaners that are designed to the job well.
- Cleaning your car leather only will leave it with a satin, or matte appearance. If you want it to have a little shine then a dressing or conditioner may be the way to go, but be warned about dressings. Ryan explains why below.
- Black or very dark leather interiors will typically have an inconsistent appearance after cleaning, making them more difficult to keep looking "like new". For this reason, we do suggest using a conditioner/dressing in most cases to create a perfectly even appearance after the cleaning process.
- As you may have noticed, humans get lazy and like to skip steps. So you might find yourself wanting to skip the cleaning part next time around and simply be seduced into applying a fresh coat of dressing. This will create a worse problem over time as you will be rubbing a fresh coat of dressing along with any dirt deeper and deeper into every area of your fine upholstery. Over time you will create a nice build-up of dirt and conditioners which will actually begin to deteriorate your automobile's protective top coat. Keep our number handy... you will need it. :-)
- Lastly, beware of the brands labeled as "long-lasting" or "water-resistant" as these silicone based dressings/conditioners will be difficult to clean completely off each time you do clean your car leather. Don't take the Tim Allen approach here form Tool Time and assuem that more is better. When it comes to dressings/conditioners, you actually want a product that will clean off easily each time and therefore allow for complete cleaning of your leather each time prior to a new application of conditioners.
Ryan Feeborn from Color Glo Oregon gives us his thoughts on silicone based dressings.
A few tips on auto leather conditioners
Just be smart and educated about your leather and auto interiors. Now that you're armed with a little bit of information based on real world experience, you can use the recommendations above to begin your own search. You may want to implement a schedule on your calendar if you're serious about protecting your investments. The "garage" or Man Cave schedule.
- Clean your car leather once a month. If done regularly, it's just minutes of your time. If you procrastinate, it's a much bigger job which requires some beer and complaining - maybe that's better for you.... A microfiber cloth dampened with cleaner and aggressive rubbing is all your particular car leather may require if done so regularly.
- Use a Color Glo leather conditioner if it makes you and your car leather feel a bit better about it all.
- Use a canned aerosol dressing after cleaning any colored car leather to create a nice sheen. This will provide a consistent appearance after cleaning your car leather. This auto leather conditioner/dressing will also address the black/dark colored leather/vinyl interiors issue mentioned above.
Motor On!
Auto Reconditioning vs. Auto Detailing. What's the Difference?
Today, now, more than ever, clean reconditioned vehicles and boats are selling at premiums. The average price of a new car now sits at over $30,000 - a price not reasonably entertained by much of society, so reconditioning is more popular now than ever.
What’s the difference between auto reconditioning and auto detailing?
Auto detailing is the complete cleaning and preservation of a vehicle. However, auto reconditioning takes that concept further. The definition of Auto Reconditioning is to repair, restore and renew your vehicle back to pre-accident condition. In many cases, automotive reconditioning is done on-site at your home or office, rather than in the high-cost environment of a body shop.
Auto Reconditioning
Bring vintage back to life.
Dents, dings, bumpers, wheels, and "fender bender" repairs are all independent services that can be handled quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively without you being away from your vehicle or your business.
Auto reconditioning not only means fixing cosmetic problems for your vehicle but also can offer services that help prevent future damage. Examples of these services might be clear bra protection that helps keep scratches, chips and other debris from damaging your automobile's paint.
Auto reconditioning for resale
Separate yourself from the masses. When it comes to the resale of a used vehicle, auto reconditioning separates the players from big bosses. Most automobile dealerships that take vehicles on trade ensure that pre-owned trade-in vehicles are inspected thoroughly for mechanical and aesthetic problems before potential customers have an opportunity to see them. Reconditioning an automobile will help you stay ahead of the game and retain some value.
Today, now, more than ever, clean reconditioned vehicles and boats are selling at premiums. The average price of a new car now sits at over $30,000 - a price not reasonably entertained by much of society, so reconditioning is more popular now than ever. This is why so many used car managers are hiring auto reconditioning companies to perform various reconditioning services, such as headlight restoration, plastic trim restoration, cigarette burn hole repair, rock paint chip repair, vinyl and leather repair, carpet dying and odor removal services.
Recondition for Resale
Collectors and enthusiasts pay top dollar for reconditioned vehichles.
Consumers are displaying a preference for pre-owned vehicles. They also are keeping their new cars longer. TheFiscalTimes.com wrote an article in 2015 "Why Americans are keeping their cars longer than ever", which indicates that by the year 2018 the average age of cars being owned on the road will be over 11 years. Savvy auto traders know that auto reconditioning services will help increase trade-in and resale value for formerly owned vehicles.
Here's a list of some of the top new cars owners keep for 10 years.
Is reconditioning for you?
Yes. Here's a simple rule: Every used car and boat on the road or water is a potential candidate for reconditioning. In days past, the general attitude was that reconditioning was for vintage vehicles. With the continued increase in the average price of new automobiles and watercraft and the increased length of time that owners keep their vehichles longer - reconditioning your car or boat will only aid in your ability to either sell or keep your babies longer.
Color Glo International specializes in the reconditioning and refurbishing of automobiles, watercraft, furniture, medical equipment and more. Chances are that a Color Glo specialist is near you through one of our Color Glo Franchise outlets. Call them today for a quote.
