Hello,

I just purchased a used '03 Max SE and I need to do some cleaning.
Can someone help me with a few questions?

1. What is the best product to clean the interior seats? This is a light gray cloth interior.

2. The plastic covers on the headlights are sl;ightly scratched. Is there a good way to restore/polish this covers?

3. If I take the car to a carpet cleaning shop to do the seats and carpet, is there anything to watch out for?

4. I am planning to tint the windows. This is a dark gray vehicle. Any particular tint that I should consider?

Thanks,

Mike.

 

1. I removed my seats, took them inside, and used my Steam Vac on them. You could rent a shampooer if you don't have one. With the seats removed, you can shampoo/steam clean the entire interior. I've also had good luck with the Tuff Stuff spray upholstery cleaner (available at Auto Zone,etc, in a yellow can), mainly on spots.
2. Novus #2 Fine Scratch Remover. Amazing product. Call 1-800-548-6872 for your nearest distributor. Mother's Mag & Aluminum polish also works very well on plastic headlights, but may not be able to remove the scratches. It will get rid of any yellowing/haze, though.
3. You're paying someone else to do a job you can do for probably a lot cheaper. Not a bad alternative, though, if your time is very valuable.
4. I don't know much about different tints, but do check with your DMV about legal issues (percentage of light transmission). Also keep in mind that dark tints REALLY decrease night time visibility. My rears are only 25%, and on dark nights I can't really see behind me even with my reverse lights on. Just something to really consider before getting dark tint for cosmetic reasons.

Hope this helps.

Dave

 

Vacuum. If they are very dirty use an extractor of some type. I have a Bissel Little Green that is AWESOME for the car.
There is a product called Novus. It comes in 1 2 and 3...1 being the lightest. I recommend picking up 1 and 2. It is polish specifically for plastic pieces and works very very well (it does take some rubbing so keep at it!). I ordered mine on line but I ahve seen it at harley dealerships next to the s100 wax.

Take it to an auto detailer. I doubt a capet place would even do it. Find a reputable detailer and you should be all set. the Bissel Little green was only about 100 bucks though and works great for the car...that's the cost of 1 or 2 interior detailings right there...and you can use it as often as you want. Highly recommended.

Just go to a reputable shop that you know does good work. 3m makes good tint as do a few others.