Leaked fuel, oil or grease and leaked brake fluid must be removed immediately, otherwise the paintwork will peel off. Preservation must be repeated when the water on the varnish no longer rolls into balls, but remains large spots. Regular maintenance allows you to keep the original gloss of the paintwork for a very long time.
Another option for preserving paintwork is the use of detergent preservatives. However, detergent preservatives protect the coating well when applied at every car wash and when car washes are carried out at least every 2-3 weeks. Use preservatives that contain vegetable or synthetic detergents.
After using detergent (foaming) a subsequent surface treatment with a preservative is especially recommended (pay attention to instructions for use).
Polishing: Polishing of the paintwork is required only when the varnish, due to insufficient care, under the influence of street dust, industrial gases, sun and rain, has become nondescript, and gloss can no longer be achieved by treatment with preservatives. Care must be taken not to use highly abrasive or chemically strong polishing agents, even if the first such attempt seems convincing.
Before each polishing, the car is washed clean and thoroughly dried. However, it is necessary to proceed in accordance with the instructions for use of the respective polishing agent.
Processing must be carried out on a not very large surface to avoid premature drying of the varnish. When using some polishing agents, a preservative must also be applied after that. Do not polish in bright sunlight! Matted parts must not be treated with preservatives or polishes.
Removal of resin stains: resin stains are absorbed into the varnish for a short time, after which it is no longer possible to remove them completely. Fresh resin stains can be removed with a rag soaked in gasoline for washing. In extreme cases, you can use gasoline sold at a gas station, kerosene or turpentine oil. Very good for tar stains and preservative for paintwork. When using this means it is possible to refuse the subsequent washing of the car.
Insect Removal: Insect residues contain substances which, if left untreated within a short time, can damage the lacquer film. Once firmly adhered, these residues cannot be removed with water and a sponge alone and must therefore be washed off with a warm solution of soap or detergent. There are also special means of removing insect residues.
Removing splashes of building materials: Wash off splashes of building materials with a neutral detergent solution. It is very easy to rub, otherwise the paintwork may be scratched. Rinse thoroughly with clean water after washing.
Care of plastic parts: plastic parts, artificial leather seats, ceiling, lamp shades, as well as parts with a matte black finish, clean with water, if possible, with shampoo additives, do not overmoisten the ceiling. If necessary, treat plastic parts with a plastic cleaner. Never use nitro-solvents, ether-based cleaners (Kaltreiniger) or fuel. Glass care: Wipe glass inside and out with a clean soft cloth. With severe pollution, alcohol, ammonia and warm water, as well as a special glass cleaner, help. When cleaning the windshield, fold the wiper arms forward.
When cleaning the windshield, the brushes must also be cleaned.
Attention: When using non-silicone-based cleaners, washing brushes, sponges, leather rags and handkerchiefs used for cleaning the paintwork cannot be used for cleaning windows. When spraying the paintwork with a silicone-based product, cover the windows with a folder or other material.
Maintenance of rubber seals: From time to time, maintain the elasticity of rubber seals by dusting the sealing and glossy surfaces with talcum powder or spraying them with silicone spray. In the same way, squealing and creaking when closing the doors is eliminated. Eliminates noise and rubbing of surfaces with lubricating soap.
Take care of light alloy wheel rims, especially in the cold season, with a rim cleaner. Never use aggressive, acidic, strongly alkaline and coarse cleaners or steamers with temperatures above 60°C. Clean seat belts without removing them, using mild soapy liquor only. Do not use chemical cleaners as this may damage the fabric. Wind up belts with automatic tension only when dry. Do not dry the seat belt at temperatures above 80°C or in direct sunlight.