What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen some shockers after a family trip up the coast or a run through the red dirt. Most people just give the seats a quick wipe and call it a day, but that's how you end up with sun-damaged plastics and a car that smells like a wet dog. This is my personal checklist for a proper deep clean that'll actually protect your gear from the Aussie sun. It's the same process I use for my mobile customers, whether they've got a brand new Everest or a beat-up Hilux.
The Essential Gear
What You'll Need
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
While you're here...
The Methodical Clean
The Big Blowout
Use compressed air or a blower to kick dust out of the vents, seat rails, and buttons. It’s messy, but it’s the only way to get the hidden grit.
Dry Vacuum
Spend 20 minutes here. Use the brush attachment for the carpet to agitate the sand. If you don't get the dry dirt out now, it'll just turn to mud later.
Headliner Touch-up
Be gentle. Use a dry microfibre or a very lightly damped one. If you soak it, the glue will fail and you'll have a saggy roof lining by next month.
Hard Surface Scrub
Spray APC onto your brush, not the dash. Work it into the grain of the plastic, then wipe away with a clean cloth before it dries.
Leather or Fabric Deep Clean
For leather, use a dedicated cleaner and a soft brush. I once saw a mate use dish soap on his leather seats, dried them out like a prune. Stick to the proper stuff.
UV Protection Application
Apply your protectant to all vinyl and plastic. This is vital in Autumn when the UV is still biting. It keeps the plastic supple so it doesn't crack.
Glass and Mirrors
Two-cloth method: one to apply/scrub, one bone-dry cloth to buff. This is the secret to getting zero streaks when the sun hits the windscreen.
Door Jams and Seals
Wipe the metal inside the doors. Use a bit of rubber protectant on the seals so they don't stick or perish in the heat.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
Watch Out
Job Done
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