🛒 Recommended products
HOTO 4-in-1 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner – 15000Pa
Mini handheld vacuum cleaner with suction, blowing, inflation and vacuum sealing functions. Powerful 15000Pa brushless motor, ideal for cars, homes, pets and outdoors.
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AREXONS Universal Car Cleaner – 500ml
Multipurpose cleaning spray for car interiors and exteriors . Antistatic, no-rinse, lemon-scented . Quick and easy to use on any surface.
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AIRLAB XXL Microfibre Cloth 90x60cm – 500GSM
Professional, ultra-absorbent microfiber cloth. Ideal for drying cars and motorcycles , cleaning windows, polishing, and multipurpose use around the home. Streak-free and quick-drying.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon🔧 Workshop recommended method
- Preparation: Empty the glove compartments and trunk. Gently tap the floor mats out of the car.
- Cross-vacuuming: Vacuum diagonally in slow motions over carpets and seats; use the nozzle for crevices and seat rails.
- Lift dirt: Lightly brush fabrics and seams to release trapped sand, then vacuum again.
- Targeted cleaning: Spray the cleaner onto the cloth (not directly onto the surface) and wipe the dashboard, door panels, tunnel console, and steering wheel. Repeat with a clean cloth.
- Dual action microfibre: damp cloth to remove residue, dry cloth for anti-smear finish.
- Details that matter: pass the climate vents, seat belts, seals and storage compartments.
- Drying & Airing: Open the doors for a few minutes; turn on the ventilation to dry the dampest spots.
💡 Workshop tip: Work from top to bottom (dashboard → seats → carpets). For screens, use a dedicated dry cloth. For leather, always test the product on a hidden area before treating the entire surface.
ℹ️ Technical notes and frequency
- Recommended frequency: deep cleansing every 4–6 weeks, light maintenance weekly.
- Mistakes to avoid: Excess product on leather/fabrics; spraying directly onto screens and controls; using already damp cloths on electronic components.
- Persistent odors: if they persist, replace the cabin filter (preferably activated carbon) and consider a specific sanitizing cycle.
Workshop tip : Vacuum diagonally, brush fabrics lightly, and use wet + dry microfiber for finishing.
🛒 Recommended products
MA-FRA CARWASH SHAMPOO & WAX – 1000ml
Car shampoo with polishing and protective wax . Self-drying effect, fights stains and stubborn dirt. Up to 30 washes with one bottle.
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MEGUIAR'S ULTIMATE POLISH – 473ml
A repairing and polishing agent that gives bodywork an intense shine and brilliant highlights. Ideal before waxing for a professional finish.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon🔧 Recommended procedure (post-summer)
- Prewash (essential): Rinse at low/medium pressure to remove salt, sand, and coarse dirt. Start from the wheel arches and lower area , then work your way up to the roof.
- Two-bucket method : one with shampoo , one with just water to rinse the glove (reduces micro-scratches). Wash in sections (roof → windows → panels → bumpers).
- Rinse thoroughly : Do not let soap dry on the paint, especially in the sun or hot wind.
- Drying with a microfiber cloth : pat dry without dragging; work from top to bottom. Avoid synthetic leathers that can scratch.
- Renewing polish (only on clean, dry panels): Apply a small amount of product using crisscrossing motions. Remove with a clean microfiber when it begins to glaze.
💡 Workshop tip: Work in the shade, on a cool body. Use different gloves for upper and lower parts (minimize swirls ). Remove resin and insects immediately: the longer they remain, the more they stain. For stubborn salt deposits, repeat a gentle pre-wash instead of scrubbing.
ℹ️ Technical notes and attention to special surfaces
- Wash frequently : better to use a pH-balanced shampoo and the right technique than aggressive products.
- Matt and PPF paints : avoid polish/abrasives; use only compatible cleaners recommended by the manufacturer.
- Limescale stains : Always dry; hard water leaves streaks. If they appear, repeat the wash and dry with a clean microfiber.
- Unpainted plastics : Apply polish only to paint; if touched by mistake, remove immediately with a damp microfiber.
GAV – Professional Tire Inflator Gun
Inflator gun with 80mm digital pressure gauge , ideal for cars and trucks. Professional precision for checking and adjusting tire pressure.
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Antifreeze Tester – Car Hydrometer
Car antifreeze gauge with a scale up to -43°C . Practical and precise tool for checking the coolant's protection during the winter.
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AREXONS 8406 Windshield Washer DP1 – 2L
Ready-to-use windshield washer fluid with anti-mosquito and anti-limescale properties. Lemon scented, ideal for clear, clean visibility in any season.
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VALVOLINE BRAKE CLEANER 500ML – 887059
Powerful brake and clutch cleaner spray. Effectively removes grease, oil, and residue, improving the safety and performance of the braking system.
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AREXONS CAR SPRAY RUBBER 300ML – 8473
Car tire repair and inflation spray. Instant puncture repair without removing the wheel, convenient and quick to keep on board.
🛒 Buy now at Autoricambi Tritella🔎 Tires — 5 checks in 5 minutes
- Cold pressure : read the “normal/full load” values on the door jamb and set them with the gauge (also for the spare wheel/space-saver wheel).
- Tread : legal minimum 1.6 mm (recommended replacement at ≤3 mm; ≤4 mm on winter tyres).
- Shoulders and sides : Check for cuts, dents, screws/nails. If you see exposed canvas, do not ride .
- Valves & TPMS : Caps present, no vents. TPMS light? Check pressures and then reset from the dashboard if required.
- Road test : listen for abnormal noises and vibrations (especially when braking). If present, check the balance/discs.
🧪 Levels — How to Check Them Correctly
🧊 Coolant (antifreeze)
- With a cold engine, the level must be between MIN and MAX on the reservoir.
- With the antifreeze tester you can aim for protection at least −25°C for the cold season.
- Do not mix different types/colors: always follow the manufacturer's specifications.
🛢️ Engine oil
- Hot off/10 min control (or manual): dipstick between MIN–MAX.
- If frequent top-ups are needed, schedule a leak/consumption check.
- Use only the correct ACEA/OE grade and specification.
🟡 Brake fluid
- A level close to MIN may indicate worn pads or leaks: have the system checked.
- Hygroscopic fluid: typical replacement every 24 months (unless otherwise prescribed).
💧 Windshield washer (with antifreeze)
- Use concentrated antifreeze with the dilutions on the label.
- Adjust the nozzles if the jet does not cover the entire surface of the windshield.
🔵 AdBlue (SCR diesel only)
- Top up when indicated on the dashboard; do not use uncertified alternatives.
- Avoid contamination: dedicated funnel/gun.
🧠 Quick diagnosis: symptom → cause → remedy
| Symptom | Possible cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Wear on the outer shoulders | Low pressure / aggressive cornering | Restore correct bars; check trim |
| Serration (cupping) | Tired shock absorbers / toe-in | Suspension & alignment check |
| Vibration when braking | Ovalized discs / deposits | Brake check; wheel balancing |
| Drift to the right/left | Convergence out / uneven pressures | Align pressures; check geometries |
| Recurrent pressure loss | Nail/screw/faulty valve/rim | Immediate repair in the workshop |
⚠️ Safety: Don't open the coolant reservoir when it's hot; avoid using brake cleaner on rubber/plastic; don't mix antifreezes of different chemical types; if you see cuts/dents on your tires, stop and have them checked.
🛒 Recommended products
SYNPOWER VALVE MST C5 0W20 – 907861
Latest-generation synthetic engine oil, specifically designed for BMW, Mercedes, Ford, Jaguar, and Fiat engines with DPF/GPF. It guarantees protection, efficiency, and reduced fuel consumption.
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BARDAHL OIL ADDITIVE B2 – 300ml
Oil additive suitable for all petrol and diesel engines . Improves performance, reduces wear and extends engine life, ensuring greater efficiency.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon🧰 Recommended procedure (30–45 minutes)
- Preparation : Place the car on a level surface, with the engine warm (2–3 minutes running) to liquefy the oil. Wear gloves; protect the bumper and wheel arches.
- Draining : Unscrew the top fill cap, then the sump cap and the filter cap /external filter. Collect the water in a basin and wait for it to drain completely.
- Oil filter : replace with a suitable replacement; lubricate the gasket with a drop of new oil. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended tightening torques .
- Closing : fit a new washer onto the cup cap (if applicable) and tighten to the specified torque (do not tighten by feel).
- Refueling : Pour in new oil in several batches until it reaches ~90% of its capacity; wait a few minutes and check the dipstick.
- Starting : Run the engine for 30–40 seconds, check for leaks, turn it off, and wait 5–10 minutes. Recheck the level and align the MIN–MAX lines.
- Service reset : reset the maintenance indicator from the on-board menu (or via diagnosis where required).
- Disposal : take used oil and filter to a recycling center or to your local spare parts dealer (no waste disposal/environment).
💡 Workshop tip: Always measure the amount of oil you drain (liters) to compare it to the rated capacity. If it's significantly less than expected, check for any consumption or leaks.
ℹ️ Important technical notes
- ACEA/OE specifications: always comply with the instructions in the manual (e.g. ACEA C5/C3 families, manufacturer approvals).
- Do not mix oils of different specifications unless in an emergency; match the correct grade as soon as possible.
- Additives : Use only if compatible with Low SAPS oils and post-treatment systems (DPF/GPF/catalysts). Follow the dosages on the label.
- Intervals : mileage or time (typically 12 months). Short trips/heavy traffic → advance.
🧠 Quick diagnosis: symptom → cause → remedy
| Symptom | Possible cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Valve noise when cold | Degraded oil or low level | Check level, replace oil/filter |
| Higher than normal oil consumption | Valve band/guide wear or leaks | Leak diagnosis; additive assessment and monitoring |
| Very dark and thick oil in advance | Short cycles, stop & go, high temperatures | Schedule a service early; check oil quality |
| Oil pressure warning light | Low level / pump / sensor | Stop the vehicle; check the level and request a diagnosis. |
⚠️ Safety: Do not work under the car without suitable supports; do not open the coolant reservoir cap when hot; avoid spills on belts and electrical components.
🛒 Recommended products
AREXONS 4155 NEO BIOCID – Germicidal disinfectant
Germicidal disinfectant specifically for vehicles: sanitizes and protects the passenger compartment, surfaces, and systems. Safety and freshness for your car.
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AIRCO CLEANER VALVE – 887067
Sanitizing foam for car air conditioning systems . Eliminates bacteria and unpleasant odors, improving cabin air quality and driving comfort.
🛒 Buy now at Autoricambi Tritella🧰 Recommended procedure (15–30 minutes)
- Preparation : Open the windows, remove any fabric floor mats. Set recirculation to OFF .
-
Method 1 – Foam with probe (recommended) :
- Turn off the engine and air conditioning. Insert the probe into the central vent or into the duct leading to the evaporator.
- Dispense the foam until the canister is empty: it will act on the evaporator and flow out of the condensation drain.
- Wait 15 minutes ; then start the air conditioning with recirculation ON , medium fan, and windows open for another 10 minutes.
-
Method 2 – “Auto-bomb” in the cockpit :
- Start engine, A/C ON, recirculation ON , fan medium, cold temperature.
- Place the can in the passenger footwell, activate it and close the doors for 10 minutes .
- At the end of the cycle, air out the car for 5–10 minutes.
- Surface sanitization : use AREXONS 4155 NEO BIOCID on the steering wheel, levers, handles, dashboard (spray onto the cloth, not directly).
- Final check : reduced/absent odors and fresher air. If odors persist, repeat the foaming process and evaluate the cabin filter .
💡 Pro tip: Replace your cabin filter if you notice odors, frequent allergies, or fogging . Choose activated carbon (better for odors and NOx) or HEPA where available.
ℹ️ Technical notes and warnings
- Frequency : 2 times/year (spring and after summer) or every 10–15,000 km.
- Skins and displays : Always test the product on an inconspicuous area; use a dedicated screen cloth.
- Don't block the condensation drain; if it drips little or not at all, check that it is not blocked.
- Ozone : effective but should be used with caution (risk of damaging seals/plastics if overused). Choose certified products.
✅ QUICK POST-SUMMER CHECKLIST
| Check | What to check | When |
|---|---|---|
| Interiors | Complete vacuuming + cleaning of surfaces/fabrics | Immediately upon return |
| Body | Wash, dry, light polish | Within 7 days |
| Tires | Pressure, wear, any cuts | Immediately + every 4 weeks |
| Levels | Oil, coolant, windshield washer, brakes | Right away |
| Brakes | Noise, vibrations, pedal response | Road test |
| Hygiene/Visibility | Sanitization, glass, cabin filter | Within 7 days |
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I really have to wash my car right after the beach?
Yes: salt water is corrosive. Washing within a few days prevents oxidation and stains on the lens.
How much tire pressure should I put on when returning?
Always refer to the value on the door jamb. If you frequently travel fully loaded, use the "fully loaded" values.
When to change the oil after the summer?
If you are close to a mileage/time limit or have made many short/busy trips, bring forward the service.
How to eliminate persistent odors in the passenger compartment?
Fabric cleaning, dedicated sanitizer, and activated carbon cabin filter . Avoid perfumes that only mask.
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