Our top tips for a DIY car valet

Bumps & Scuffs started on the site of the Bourne Mill Industrial Estate. Yet all the business had to leave when permission was given to build the Premier Inn which is certainly taking shape.

We were very lucky to find alternative premises in Wrecclesham, just 5 minutes from the Shepherd & Flock roundabout on the way the Birdworld. This has also brought us closer to towns like Bordon and Alton, which has been a real bonus.

The main casualty has turned out to be Farnham and district’s car owners! They used to have their cars cleaned and valeted by the Express Car Wash but they were unable to find alternative premises. Even though some 3 years have elapsed we frequently receive enquiries about this service.

We obviously inspect cars that are brought to us very closely and are very surprised at the number of repairs required simply due to negligent car washing by some operatives who do not seem to care.

We are pleased to give some tips but we are also about to launch a new service that will go some way to replacing the Express Car Wash. Watch this space!

In the meantime we are pleased to give a few pointers:

• Bird droppings are not only unsightly; they are corrosive. As soon as you notice them they should be removed using hot water. Any delay will damage the paintwork.
• Cleaning your car not only makes it look and smell nice; it’s also important in order to minimise wear and tear. For example pollutants, which collect on your vehicle, can have a corrosive effect on paintwork the longer the residue is left to build up.
• A regular, thorough, clean and polish will also reveal any bumps, scratches or scrapes, as well as highlighting any damage to your alloy wheels. And when it comes to these minor bodywork issues, it’s always best to deal with them quickly before they become more of a serious problem requiring expensive and extensive repair later on.
• When you pick up your car from us please allow 24 hours before you take it to a car wash. The chemicals they use can react with the new paint.

Here are Bumps and Scuffs top tips for a great DIY valet:

• No shortcuts. Tempting as it may be to bring out your jet washer, it’s always worth cleaning your car the old fashioned way – by hand. This will allow you to spot any paintwork issues as you go along. Start with a good rinse of water, and then follow with a dedicated cleaning product before finishing with a wash using a soft sponge.
• Proper cleaning products. DON’T be tempted by that bottle of Fairy on the windowsill. Invest in a proper car shampoo that will protect your body work.
• Nooks and crannies. Once the body is done, wipe around the sills, car doors and other hard to reach areas – including those which aren’t normally exposed – with a damp cloth.
• Wax on, wax off. Ensure your car is thoroughly dried off with chamois leather, and then apply your wax. Try to do this in your garage and not in direct sunlight, or extreme temperatures, as this can make your product difficult to work with.

Do make a note of any damage you find during the above processes such as scratches, dents, marked alloys and worn carpets. It’s easy to fix these problems with a fast, flexible and affordable service such as that offered by Bumps and Scuffs – just give us a call on 01252 217  086 and we’ll arrange a convenient time for you to drop your car in and get these issues resolved.