First Aid For Your Four-Wheeled Friend

Don’t let the fact that your car is a junker get you down. The following tips can help you transform your clunker into a hotter rod … without spending a ton of money.

PROBLEM: I don’t know where to start.

QUICK FIX: When there seems to be no end to the problems with your car, the best thing to do is give the car a good wash and wax. Follow the directions on whichever sort of wax you choose. Wash windows inside and out. Use Armor-All cleaner on the dash and all of the other rubber and vinyl parts inside the car. Vacuum the interior.

PROBLEM: Rusty, crusty tire rims.

QUICK FIX: One day a looooong time ago, those rims were silver and shiny. Rust Remover and Muscle Power can bring those days back. Afterwards, polish with a clean cloth.

PROBLEM: Torn, tattered and faded seats.

QUICK FIX: Sold singly or in pairs, seat covers take just a few minutes to put on and won’t send you to the poor house. Prices start around only $15.

PROBLEM: Stinky car syndrome.

QUICK FIX: The previous owners had a dog. Yuck. Well, your car can smell yummy if you buy a clip-on air freshener or hang one from your rear-view mirror. There are also sprays available in flavors like coconut and strawberry.

PROBLEM: My tires look really old, and the white walls sure aren’t white anymore.

QUICK FIX: There are foams available that you just spray on. After five or 10 minutes, the tires are shiny black, without any scrubbing or rinsing.

PROBLEM: I want some cool accessories for my car, so what should I buy?

QUICK FIX: Definitely a garbage bag. Drink holders are also cool, but alcoholic beverages are not, so stick with the Pepsi. Steering wheel covers look great and cost about $4. A flashlight is a must and can come in handy, so be sure to get one. To add some character to your car, get a cool bumper sticker!