What’s the Hardest Part of Your Car to Clean? Christchurch’s Most-Frustrating Areas Inside and Out (And How to Fix Them)
When we asked Christchurch drivers what the hardest part of their car to clean was, the answers came in fast. A few themes showed up over and over again, but one unexpected reply kept appearing:
“My steering wheel somehow ends up with makeup, sunscreen, and fingerprints baked into it.”
And honestly… that tracks. Even in Porsche, BMW, Audi and Mercedes interiors, grime builds up quickly in ways most owners don’t notice day-to-day. Christchurch conditions make things worse too: coastal air, sudden rain, dust, pollen, and temperature swings all add to the struggle.
So here’s a breakdown of the interior and exterior areas Christchurch car owners struggle with the most, why they’re so difficult to clean, and how professionals actually restore them.
1. The Steering Wheel
Your steering wheel is easily the most touched surface in your car, but probably the least cleaned.
Studies show that it can have more bacteria than a public toilet seat, thanks to constant contact with your hands, food, makeup, and sweat. Over time, oils and dirt build up around stitching and buttons, leaving behind a sticky, dull finish.
A thorough interior detail removes this invisible grime, restoring the wheel’s original feel and ensuring a more hygienic drive.
2. Piano Black Trim
Piano-black trims in luxury cars scratch and smear if you even look at them the wrong way.
Issues:
• micro-scratches from rings, watches, and keys
• constant fingerprints
• fine dust that settles instantly
• dull or hazy appearance over time
Why it’s hard to clean:
Even soft cloths can cause swirls, and most interior sprays leave behind streaks or residue that make the problem worse. Once the gloss finish develops micro-marring, no amount of wiping fixes it.
What we do:
We start by safely cleansing the surface with streak-free, residue-free products. For trims with visible swirls or haze, we refine the finish using a controlled, ultra-fine machine polishing process designed specifically for delicate interior plastics. This restores clarity and depth without burning or distorting the material. After correction, we apply an anti-static interior sealant that helps repel fingerprints, reduce dust buildup, and keep the gloss finish looking clean for longer.
3. Interior Glass & Touchscreens
Ask any Christchurch driver: cleaning the inside of the windscreen is a form of punishment.
Why it’s so difficult:
Interior vapours from plastics, oils, skin contact, heating and cooling cycles, and everyday use create a thin film called off-gassing. Wiping it just smears it around.
Touchscreens also attract fingerprints and haze.
How we fix it:
We break down the film using dedicated low-residue glass cleaners and lint-free interior towels designed for anti-static results.
Why It Matters
Modern cars use sensitive materials, glossy finishes, and coated surfaces that require specific products and techniques. Using the wrong cleaner or towel can cause more harm than good.
A proper detail not only restores these problem areas but adds protection that makes future cleaning easier.
For Christchurch drivers preparing for summer, we always recommend a full interior and exterior detail — especially if you’re dealing with stubborn interior grime, steering wheel staining, or exterior water spotting.
If you’d like help restoring your vehicle properly before the new year rush, we’re taking limited bookings for our Christchurch opening in February.
Want prices or availability? Get in touch anytime.