When it comes to cars, the engine often gets the lion’s share of maintenance time. However, there is a part of your ride that deserves just as much attention: your windshield.
After all, it’s your window to the world—if it’s dirty or blurred, you may very well get into an accident. That’s why regularly cleaning it is a crucial part of good vehicle maintenance.
That said, how exactly does one clean their windshield? A leading Volkswagen dealership in Albuquerque, NM, offers the following tips:
- Know the order of cleaning — If you’re cleaning the rest of your car, leave your windshield for last to avoid pushing dirt onto the glass. Only start with your windshield after you’ve washed and rinsed all other car surfaces.
- Mind your wipers — Gunk can build up on your wiper blades, too, so take the time to clean them as well. You can use the washer fluid mixed with warm water to get rid of the dirt. Dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth, and you’re good to go.
- Prepare what you need — For faster and more efficient cleaning, make sure that you have everything you need on hand before starting. That includes cleaning supplies like lint-free microfiber rags, glass cleaner, rubbing alcohol, and a bucket of water.
- Pre-clean the glass — Use your towels to wipe off any debris on the glass. This makes it easier for your cleaning solution to get rid of the muck and grime. Then a rag moistened with rubbing alcohol to degrease the windshield.
- Mix and match — Speaking of which, you have a lot of options for your cleaning solution. If you’re using a store-bought product, use a ratio of 70% water, 15% window cleaner, and 15% alcohol. If you prefer a DIY mixture, mix 50% alcohol with 50% water and add a tablespoon of vinegar. Whatever solution you choose, pour it into a spray bottle.
- Get cleaning — Now it’s time for the main attraction. Liberally spray the cleaning solution to the glass. Clean it using alternating vertical and horizontal strokes to avoid streaks, and swap out the rags when they get too dirty. Important note: don’t forget to clean the interior side of the windshield, too!
PRO-TIP: Do your cleaning indoors! Sunlight can cause cleaning solutions to evaporate faster, making them less effective at their job. Moreover, the heat can cause streaks to form on the glass.
- Apply some wax — Want to keep your windshield looking pristine for as long as possible? Apply some wax to the glass so that dust and debris won’t attach to the surface quickly. This, in turn, ensures that you can get maximum visibility when you drive.
As the saying goes, if you take care of your car, it will take care of you. And that applies to all its components, including the windshield. If you keep it spic and span, you can put your mind at ease each time you drive.
Are you looking for the latest Volkswagen cars? Drop by Fiesta, the top Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM. Our team won’t just sell you a vehicle—we’ll show you to keep it in excellent condition, too.
