While you should never spray WD-40 directly onto your car’s brake pads or rotors (as it can reduce brake effectiveness), you can use it to fix squeaky brake components that are causing unnecessary noise. Apply WD-40 to the brake calipers, brackets, or any parts that might be squeaking, ensuring it doesn’t touch the actual friction surface.
6. Keeps Windshield Wipers in Top Condition
If your windshield wipers are squeaking or leaving streaks behind, it might be due to dried-out rubber. Spray a bit of WD-40 on the rubber blades to restore their flexibility and reduce squeaking. This will help your wipers work more efficiently, especially during rainy weather.
7. Eases Sticking Seat Belts
Over time, seat belts can become sticky and difficult to retract. A quick spray of WD-40 on the seat belt mechanism can help lubricate the parts, making the seat belt retract and extend smoothly again.
8. Removes Bugs and Insect Residue
Summer drives often leave a collection of dead bugs on your car’s front grill, bumper, and windshield. WD-40 is an excellent solution to removing bug residue without damaging the paint. Just spray it on the affected areas and wipe clean with a cloth to get rid of the sticky mess.
9. Cleans Leather Seats and Upholstery
Leather seats can get scuffed, scratched, or dirtied over time. WD-40 can help clean leather upholstery by wiping it down gently with a cloth sprayed with a small amount of WD-40. It will help lift grime and restore the leather’s natural shine, keeping it looking fresh for longer.
10. Prevents Frozen Locks
During the winter, car locks can freeze, leaving you stuck outside your car. To prevent this, spray a little WD-40 into your car’s locks before the cold weather sets in. This will keep moisture away from the lock mechanism, preventing freezing and ensuring that your locks continue to function smoothly.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Use Sparingly: When applying WD-40 to your car, always use it sparingly and avoid overspraying. A little goes a long way, and excessive product can lead to unwanted residue.
- Proper Storage: Keep your WD-40 can in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources. The product should last a long time as long as it is stored properly and kept away from direct sunlight.
Variants:
- WD-40 Specialist: For more specific needs, such as rust removal or degreasing, WD-40 offers a specialist range designed for tougher jobs and more specific applications like automotive maintenance.
FAQ:
Q: Can WD-40 be used on the car’s paintwork? A: WD-40 is safe for most car paint, but it’s best used for cleaning small areas or removing sticky substances like tar and sap. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first, and avoid using it excessively on painted surfaces.
Q: Is WD-40 safe for my car’s interior? A: Yes, WD-40 is generally safe for most interior components, such as dashboard parts, seat rails, and leather upholstery, but it should be used carefully. Avoid using it on fabrics or seats that are delicate.
Q: Does WD-40 help improve my car’s fuel efficiency? A: While WD-40 can help lubricate various moving parts and improve performance in other areas of your car, it will not directly affect fuel efficiency. However, it can reduce friction and improve the longevity of certain components, which can, in turn, support overall car efficiency.
Q: How often should I use WD-40 on my car? A: The frequency of use depends on your needs. WD-40 can be used as needed for maintenance, such as lubricating door hinges, cleaning tires, or removing tar. Regular cleaning or lubrication tasks can be done as part of a seasonal maintenance routine.
WD-40 is undoubtedly a multi-purpose tool in your car maintenance kit. By using it strategically for the above hacks, you can maintain your vehicle’s performance, cleanliness, and longevity, all while saving time and money on professional car services. Give these life hacks a try and see how this simple product can make a huge difference in caring for your car!
