Jason's Journal: Spring Cleaning

Jason McKinsey, Lehman Volvo Cars Service Manager, writes about Volvo trending topics, including this month’s segment on the importance of having your Volvo routinely detailed.

Looking for more information on a particular Volvo service topic? Submit your topic suggestion to Jason at jason@lehmanvolvocarsyork.com.

Jason's Journal: Spring Cleaning

By: Jason McKinsey, Service Manager

Purchasing a new vehicle is a major investment. Keeping up with routine maintenance and repair needs is extremely important, however there are also other ways to help protect that investment. Over time the environment can cause damaging effects on your Volvo. Your Volvo is exposed to harsh UV rays, rain, snow, chemicals from roadway salt treatments and many other factors that can degrade your Volvo’s appearance. One way to help combat these unavoidable factors, is to have your Volvo routinely detailed.

A “detail” is a thorough vehicle cleaning and restoration performed by a professional who uses special tools and products. There are variations of vehicle detailing, however most follow a similar process described here.

At Lehman Volvo Cars of York, your Volvo will first undergo an exterior wash using soap specifically designed for automobiles. The wheels are then cleaned using a professional grade wheel cleaner to remove brake dust build up. Once all the suds are removed and the vehicle is dried, the interior undergoes several treatments. The carpeted areas are vacuumed, cleaned and shampooed with a professional grade cleaner. A leather treatment is applied to the appropriate surfaces, including all leather seats. The exterior is finished with a random dual action buffer, which removes light scratches and paint imperfections. A coat of wax is then applied to the exterior painted surfaces. The windows are cleaned on the inside and outside. Finally a dressing may be applied to the tires and non-painted exterior trim to provide shine and extra protection. If necessary, minor chips and small scratches are touched up using the appropriate paint color.

The benefits of vehicle detailing are vast, including:
  • Washing the exterior removes dust, tree sap, bug remains, road salt—to name a few. All of these exterior factors, if left, will permanently damage or degrade the appearance of your Volvo. 
  • Cleaning the interior of your Volvo helps prevent permanent stains in carpeting and upholstery. It also reduces allergens, bacteria, and reduces unpleasant odors caused by a number of factors.
  • Buffing and waxing remove minor paint imperfections and protects your Volvo from those harsh elements. 
  • A freshly detailed Volvo will stay clean longer and will be easier to clean when needed.
  • A routine detail for your Volvo will lead to higher resale or trade in values for your next Volvo when the time comes. 
  • Clean windows and exterior lights increase visibility and safety
  • You will also increase the lifespan of your Volvo by reducing corrosion and the deterioration of the exterior surfaces. 
I recommend having your Volvo detailed twice a year—once in the spring to remove all salt and road chemicals, and once in the fall to provide a protective exterior coating from harsh winter weather and chemicals. Lehman Volvo Cars of York is now offering a full vehicle detail for $184.95 (plus tax)! Ask your service advisor for details.

If you have any questions or comments please contact me at 717-755-7676 or jason@lehmanvolvocarsyork.com. Remember a clean Volvo is a happy Volvo!

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