Cleaning and maintaining a sanitized car is more important than ever with the current state of the country. Washing hands and disinfecting high-touched surfaces are two of the best ways to defend against spreading germs. Your car should also receive special treatment. It doesn’t take much for dust and dirt to accumulate every time you drive your vehicle. Frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, the steering wheel, the shift lever, and any buttons carry bacteria. Find a suitable area for a car wash that allows you to give your vehicle the bit of elbow grease it deserves. Below are a few suggestions to adapt to your next cleaning regimen to defend against spreading illness-causing germs:
- According to the CDC, alcohol-based solutions that contain at least 70 percent of alcohol are effective against COVID-19. Household cleaners that kill coronaviruses on hard surfaces at home are suitable cleaning agents for your car’s insides without damaging its interior.
- Using a microfiber cloth to clean and wipe surfaces is the most effective method because this fabric consists of tiny little loops that capture and sweep away dirt and dust particles. Friction from wiping or scrubbing cleaning also works hand in hand with the destruction of germs. Keep note that paper towels used on display screens or gauge clusters can leave scratches on the surfaces.
- If cleaning products aren’t handy, soap and water are just as effective for cleaning car interiors—especially fabrics and older leather. Ensure you do not flood your car with too much cleaning solution as you can cause electrical damage.
- Vacuum the floor and seats. Before you start, make sure the vacuum itself is clean and change the filter if necessary. Make a habit of vacuuming your car at least once a month because small dirt, grains of dust, and sand can become trapped in the carpet with frequent usage.
- Thoroughly wipe down the inside of your windows with a regular glass cleaner found at general grocery stores.
- Most experts advise against using any harsh chemicals on your vehicle interior. Bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia can cause irreversible damage.
These car cleaning suggestions will help keep your vehicle germ-free and sanitized for your next trip. There isn’t an amount of cleaning that can guarantee you won’t spread or catch COVID-19, but these suggestions may help minimize the risk or spread of the infection. Besides combating germs, your car will enjoy a new status as a mean clean driving machine.
In today’s world of advanced engine diagnostics and high-tech vehicles, you might wonder: do cars still need tune-ups? The answer is a resounding yes. While the term "tune-up" has evolved, the purpose remains the same—to keep your car running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. At Elite Auto Experts in Northwest Houston, we know that modern vehicles may not need service as often as older models, but they still need maintenance to stay at peak performance. Here's why tune-ups are still essential and what they include in today’s automotive world.
Learn why your vehicle’s exhaust system is vital to performance, safety, and efficiency—and discover the warning signs that it’s time for a professional repair. When you think about vehicle maintenance, oil changes and brake pads may come to mind—but don’t forget about your exhaust system . Often overlooked, the exhaust system plays a critical role in how your car performs, how safe it is to drive, and even how much fuel you burn. At Elite Auto Experts , we want drivers in Northwest Houston to know just how important your exhaust system is—and how to spot issues before they become dangerous or expensive.
Elite Auto Experts in Houston, TX, explains why rear-end collisions are so frequent and shares tips to avoid them, whether you’re driving or repairing.
Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming more common on Houston roads—and they’re changing the way we think about vehicle maintenance. If you drive an EV or a hybrid, it’s important to find a repair shop that understands the unique systems under your hood. At Elite Auto Experts , our certified technicians are trained and equipped to service the latest electric and hybrid models with precision and care.
There’s nothing like a road trip to kick off the summer—and Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular times for families and friends to hit the highway. Whether you're heading to Galveston, Austin, or just a nearby getaway, one thing should always come first: your car’s safety and reliability . At Elite Auto Experts , we want you to enjoy your holiday weekend worry-free. That’s why we’re offering a FREE Road Trip Check-Up now through Friday—just in time to get you and your car ready for the road.
Don’t ignore your check engine light! Learn what it means, common causes, and how Elite Auto Experts in Houston offers a free diagnostic scan to keep your car running right. Your check engine light just turned on—now what? You might be tempted to ignore it, especially if your car still seems to run fine. But the truth is, that little warning light could be the start of a much bigger issue. At Elite Auto Experts , we’re offering a FREE check engine light scan so you can get answers fast—and avoid costly repairs later.
Traditionally, oil changes were recommended every 3,000 miles. However, thanks to advancements in engine technology and synthetic oils, many vehicles today can go 5,000–7,500 miles between changes. Still, it depends heavily on: Your driving habits (short trips vs. highway miles) Climate conditions (Houston heat, we see you ☀️) Your vehicle’s make and model The safest bet? Check your owner’s manual—or better yet, ask our experts at your next visit. Our team is trained to recommend the best maintenance schedule for your specific needs.
Elite Auto Experts in Houston, TX, explains five possible reasons your car vibrates when idling and how to address each one.
Your car’s transmission is one of its most vital components. It’s responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, controlling how fast those wheels spin, and ensuring each gear change is as smooth as possible. Despite its importance, many drivers overlook transmission maintenance—until there’s a significant (and expensive) problem. Let’s dive into the basics of how your transmission works and why routine care is key.
Why Choosing a Professional Collision Center Is Crucial: Saving Money, Ensuring Safety, and Gaining Peace of Mind