Shine On! How to Take Proper Care of Your Car

Some love it, others could do without it – the car wash. For some, it’s a relaxing ritual on sunny days; for others, just another chore. But no matter how you feel about it: regular cleaning is important – not only for how your car looks, but also for maintaining its value.

In this article, you'll learn how often your car really needs to be washed, what’s included in basic car care, when a “special treatment” makes sense, and how to deal with stubborn dirt like tree sap or insect stains.

How often should you really wash your car?

As a general rule, you should wash your car every one to two months. At Carvolution, we recommend a monthly wash – especially in winter, when road salt, mud and moisture can seriously harm the paint and underbody. There’s one important exception: safety. Critical parts like headlights, taillights, indicators and, of course, the windows must always be clean and functional. Dirty lights or a smeared windshield can reduce visibility – and become a real danger on the road.

What’s included in a standard car wash?

A clean car not only looks better, it also holds its value longer. And proper care goes far beyond just washing the body.

On the outside, windows, lights and wheels should be cleaned regularly – especially because dirt can affect your visibility and safety. Door frames, mirrors and entry areas also collect dirt and deserve regular attention.

Inside, you should keep the dashboard, steering wheel, center console and seats clean. Carpets and floor mats should be vacuumed or shaken out to prevent stubborn dirt and unpleasant odors. And don’t forget the inside of the windows – clear glass ensures a better view, day and night.

Even during your subscription period, regular cleaning is important – not just for comfort, but also to prevent wear and long-term damage.

Before returning your car, we ask you to give it a standard car wash. This allows us to assess its condition clearly and fairly – and helps avoid any misunderstandings.

Note: While almost everything is included in your Carvolution subscription – from insurance to servicing – a few small things, like car washes or topping up washer fluid, remain your responsibility. That way, you decide when your car shines.

What counts as “special treatment”?

You don’t have to do it every time – but now and then, your car deserves some extra attention.

That includes:

• Paint care like polishing or sealing to restore shine and protect against weather
• Wheel rim sealant to prevent brake dust buildup
• Cleaning plastic parts, so bumpers and trim look fresh again
• Interior deep cleaning, such as shampooing seats and treating leather

What to do with stubborn dirt?

With tough stains like tree sap, insect residue or bird droppings, the key is to act fast! Fresh spots can often be wiped away gently with water and mild detergent. Always use a soft microfiber cloth – rough sponges or scrubbing can do more harm than good.

If the stain has dried, water alone may not be enough. A good car shampoo is helpful here, and for really stubborn dirt, cleaning clay can remove residue without damaging the paint.

One proven tip for bird droppings: cover the spot with a wet cloth or piece of newspaper for a few minutes. Once it’s softened, you can usually wipe it off easily with a microfiber cloth – and protect the paint in the process.

Still have questions? If you’d like to know more about car care, dealing with tough stains or how the Carvolution car subscription works, feel free to book an appointment with us or check out our FAQ – you’ll find plenty of helpful answers there.

Looking for a car that truly shines? We’ve got over 40 models from various brands ready to go. Find your next car here – with our all-inclusive subscription.