REVAMPING YOUR RIDE: HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR OLD INTO NEW CAR

TOYOTA COROLLA 1987

 Do you have an old car sitting in your driveway, longing for a fresh start? Whether it's a classic beauty or a faithful companion that's seen better days, there's something special about revamping an old car and giving it a new lease on life. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of transforming your aging vehicle into a stunning, rejuvenated ride that turns heads and feels like new again.

This is my car in the above picture and I am going to share the complete journey of transforming its old condition into new stunning looks 

Car Information and issues

Make: Toyota

Model: Corolla DX SALOON (1987)

Engine: 12 Valve, 2E

Issues

• Severe Leakage of engine oil and transmission oil
• Noisy Suspension 
• Rusted Radiator
• Dim Head Lights
• Back tail lights not working
• Faded out paint from outside
• Small rust patches
• Dirty Interior
• Dirty Engine Bay

📊 💰 "THE  MOST IMPORTANT TOTAL EXPENSE/BUDGET."

PKR rs40,000 / 146$ USD

This is the total amount I spent on it to transform it looks

SOME STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW

• Start with the basics.
• First, start fixing your car mechanically.
• Then, give attention to the exterior
• Fixing Interior
• The Final Step is complete Detailing

1- ITS TIME TO GREET THE MECHANICS

While appearance is important, don't neglect the performance and reliability of your revamped vehicle.
Schedule a comprehensive inspection with a trusted mechanic to address any underlying mechanical issues and perform necessary maintenance tasks

• After a general inspection, the mechanic replaced the tapered cover seal, timing belt seal, and lower chamber seal. They also replaced the gear lower chamber nut and changed the ball joints and suspension boots. The shocks and springs were found to be in good condition. The last thing that was done was tuning the vehicle and replacing the plugs.
• The oil leakage issue was resolved and suspension noises were also resolved
• Due to tunning its fuel average turns from 9kms/L to 16kms/L
• Now it comes to cleaning the radiator and replacing rusted water with car radiator coolant
• I suspect radiator pipe leakages but they were good enough. But I strongly suggest replacing them in extreme weather conditions, especially in hot summers.
• Check Brakes, Tire condition, Wheel Balancing, and Alignment.
• Before leaving the mechanic, always remember to check the nuts and bolts of the suspension and tires. This important step will ensure your safety on the road.

2- IT IS TIME TO GREET THE ELECTRICIANS

Inspecting your car by an electrician is crucial because they can identify and rectify electrical issues that may compromise safety or performance. 

• This includes checking the battery, wiring, lights, and electronic components to ensure everything functions properly, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents caused by electrical failures.
• The car's front headlight and tail lamp bulbs were changed
•  its tail light covers and turning indicator covers were replaced. This is not only important for road safety but also enhances the car's exterior appearance. 

The light covers were replaced after the paint job and denting process to protect them from damage and paint overspray.

This picture was taken after the paint job

3- IT IS TIME TO GREET DENTER AND PAINTER 

As mentioned earlier, when inspecting a car, it's always important to start with the basics. Don't solely rely on the workers, as they are simply doing their job and servicing many cars. It's best to observe the car yourself. Look for any wavy surfaces or dents and inspect the entire body for rust. If any plastic parts of the car need to be removed, make sure you are present and take them with you to protect them from breaking or getting misplaced.

Note: The paint condition of the roof, trunk, and bonnet was good and original, so there was no need for me to do anything with them. However, the sides and doors were completely resprayed from the inside and outside to improve their appearance and protect them from rust.

As the car underwent its transformation, each new exterior detail ripened with anticipation, mirroring how my patience was bearing fruit with every passing moment.

Also Got the engine tapered cover repainted. will share its picture of before and after in the end

4- THE LAST STEP DETAILING/WASHING OF THE CAR

You have a choice if you want your car detailed by yourself or from trusted outside detailing service

I Detailed it myself

THERE ARE SOME TIPS

• Remove all the seats and carpets from interior 
• Remove the car battery and cover all important electrical components
• Remove water drainage rubbers from the interior
• Wash the seats and carpets with a pressure washer (Mix petrol, Cloth detergent, All Purpose Cleaner, and Water. Evenly spray them on seats and carpet, Use soft brushes to remove strain marks, At the end rinse them with water) Use this formula if you have no detailing products or no knowledge about them.
• Repeat the above step for fabric and leather parts.
• I suggest not using any acidic product for interior plastic parts as it damages the paint. 
• Use soft brushes and soft microfibers for the interior. Use the recommended All Purpose Cleaner for the interior according to your car.
• For the engine use a good quality engine degreaser or you can apply the formula I mentioned above for cleaning fabric and leather parts as I found it to be very helpful.
• Let all the stuff to dry 
• Fit them back.
  

I have also written a blog on how to wash your car at home you can read it by clicking the link given below : https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/04/how-to-wash-car-at-home-tips-for.html

NOW I AM GOING TO SHARE THE BEFORE AND AFTER OF MY CAR

AFTER

BEFORE

INTERIOR

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

EXTERIOR 😎

"Maintaining your car isn't just about preserving its condition; it's a reflection of pride and respect for the journey it takes you on. Keep it pristine, and every drive becomes a testament to your care and attention."

How to wash car at home : Tips for Scratch Free Washing"

          

RULES TO BE FOLLOWED BEFORE WASHING CAR AT HOME

When washing your car at home, be mindful of local regulations regarding water usage and runoff.

• Use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose to minimize water waste
• Use eco-friendly detailing products
• Dispose of wastewater properly
• Avoid washing your car during drought conditions
• Always check your local  authorities for specific regulations

MASTERING THE ART OF SCRATCH FREE WASHING AT HOME, EASY AND BRIEF STEP BY STEP GUIDE 

In the pursuit of keeping your car gleaming and scratch-free, washing it at home can be a rewarding task. However, without the right techniques and precautions, you might inadvertently introduce scratches or swirl marks to your vehicle's paintwork. Fear not! Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure your at-home car wash leaves your vehicle shining without a scratch in sight.

1- Gather Your Supplies

• Two buckets: One for soapy water and another for rinsing.
• Pressure washer with foam gun.
• High quality microfiber wash mitts/sponges
• High quality microfiber towels for drying 
• Air blower for drying car and removing water from your car to prevent rust, scratches and water spots
• pH-Balanced car wash shampoo is very important for protecting your car paint. Don't use cloths washing and dish washing detergents.
• Grit guards for the buckets to trap dirt and prevent scratching.

2- Pre-wash Rinse

• Start by rinsing your car thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
• You can also use pre-wash rinsing products of different companies.
• Use a gentle nozzle and pressure washer on a low setting to avoid blasting dirt into the paint
• Don't apply microfiber cloth directly on dirty body

3- Wash Method:

• Fill one bucket with clean, soapy water and the other with plain water for rinsing.
• Use the two-bucket method: Dip your wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water, wash a section of the car, then rinse it in the clean water bucket before reloading with soap.
• Work from the top down, washing one section at a time to prevent soap from drying on the surface.

4- Mindful Technique:

• Use gentle pressure and long, straight motions when washing to avoid trapping dirt particles between the wash mitt and the paint.
• Rinse the wash mitt frequently to prevent dirt buildup and scratching. Avoid using circular motions, as they can create swirl marks.

5- Wheels and Tires:

• Use a separate wash mitt or brush for cleaning wheels and tires to prevent cross-contamination.
• Apply wheel cleaner and agitate with a brush to remove brake dust and grime.
  
  
  

6-Drying:

• Pat the car dry using soft, clean microfiber towels.
• Avoid rubbing or dragging the towel across the paint, as this can cause scratches.
• Consider using a quick detailer spray or spray wax as a lubricant while drying to minimize friction and add shine.

• Use air blower to remove water from rubbers and tight spaces

7- Interior Cleaning:

Cleaning the interior of your car without causing scratches requires careful attention to detail and the use of appropriate tools and techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your car's interior safely:

• Remove Debris: Start by removing any large debris such as trash, papers, or items from the interior. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove dirt and crumbs from seats, carpets, and floor mats.
• Choose the Right Cleaning Products: Use interior-specific cleaning products that are gentle on surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage or discolor upholstery, plastic, or leather. Optimized for mild cleaners or specialized interior detailing sprays.
• Test in a Hidden Area: Before applying any cleaner to visible areas, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse effects such as staining or discoloration.
• Use Soft Brushes and Cloths: When cleaning surfaces like dashboard, door panels, and center console, use soft microfiber towels or brushes specifically designed for interior detailing. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch surfaces.
• Dust and Wipe Down Surfaces: Start by dusting off surfaces using a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Gently wipe down surfaces with a dampened cloth or a mild cleaning solution, depending on the level of dirt and grime. Work in small sections and avoid excessive moisture.
• Clean Upholstery and Fabric: For fabric seats and upholstery, use a fabric cleaner or upholstery shampoo designed for car interiors. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use a soft brush to agitate the cleaner and lift dirt. Blot excess moisture with a clean towel and allow the fabric to air dry completely.
• Treat Leather Carefully: If your car has leather seats or trim, use a leather cleaner and conditioner specifically formulated for automotive use. Apply the cleaner using a soft cloth, gently massaging it into the leather. Wipe off excess cleaner and follow up with a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple.
• Clean and Condition Vinyl and Plastic: Use a mild all-purpose cleaner or interior detailing spray for cleaning vinyl and plastic surfaces. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and wipe down surfaces, paying attention to textured areas and crevices. Follow up with a plastic or vinyl conditioner to protect and restore shine.
• Address Glass and Mirrors: Use a glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth to clean interior glass surfaces, such as windows and mirrors. Buff the glass to a streak-free shine.
• Finish with Vacuuming: Once all surfaces are clean and dry, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any remaining dirt or debris from carpets, upholstery, and floor mats.

8- Engine Bay Cleaning:

BEFORE

AFTER

• I cleaned my car engine bay using these steps
• Prepare the Engine: Before starting, ensure the engine is cool to the touch to prevent water from evaporating too quickly and leaving behind water spots. If the engine is warm, allow it to cool down completely before proceeding.
• Cover Sensitive Components: Use plastic bags, aluminum foil, or specialized engine covers to protect sensitive electrical components such as the battery, alternator, fuse box, and electronic sensors. Secure these covers tightly to prevent water from penetrating.
• Disconnect the Battery: If you prefer to err on the side of caution, disconnect the battery to prevent any chance of electrical damage. Remember to reconnect it once the cleaning process is complete.
• Degrease the Engine: Use a degreaser specifically formulated for car engines to break down grease, oil, and grime buildup. Apply the degreaser to the engine surfaces, focusing on areas with heavy dirt accumulation. Allow the degreaser to dwell for a few minutes according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Agitate with Brushes: Use soft-bristled brushes, such as detailing brushes or paintbrushes, to gently agitate the degreaser and loosen stubborn dirt and grime. Avoid using abrasive brushes that could scratch or damage surfaces.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Use a gentle stream of water from a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting to rinse away the degreaser and loosened dirt. Ensure that the water pressure is not too high to prevent water from forcing its way into electrical connectors or sensitive components.
• Dry the Engine: Use compressed air or a leaf blower on a low setting to blow excess water off the engine surfaces. Alternatively, you can use clean microfiber towels to gently pat the surfaces dry. Avoid using excessive force or rubbing, as this could cause damage.
• Inspect for Remaining Dirt: Once the engine is dry, inspect it carefully for any remaining dirt or grease spots. Use a clean microfiber towel and a mild cleaner to spot-clean any stubborn areas if necessary.
• Apply Engine Dressing: If desired, apply a water-based engine dressing or protectant to enhance the appearance of plastic and rubber components. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and allow it to dry completely.
• Reconnect Battery and Remove Covers: If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it once the engine is dry and the covers are removed. Carefully remove any protective covers or bags from electrical components. And start the engine.

9- Trunk Cleaning

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dirt and loose particles from the trunk floor and walls. Pay attention to the corners, seams, and under the spare tire.
• Inspect spare tire and tools
• Use fabric or All purpose cleaner after vacuum

10- Final Touches

• Inspect the car under bright light to ensure no water spots or streaks
• Use a clean Microfiber towel to buff any remaining water spot.

11- Waxing

• Waxing your car creates a protective layer that helps prevent scratches and maintains the shine
• Park your car under shaded areas whenever possible to minimize exposure to UV rays and environmental contaminants

12- Steps you should follow

1. Start with engine cleaning
2. Interior and Trunk
3. Exterior
4. Waxing

13- Precautions

• Use quality wash mitts and microfibers
• Avoid acidic products
• Avoid circular motions
• Use proper technique during drying and waxing
• Use soft brushes and microfiber towels
• Use gentle water pressure
• Use grit guards
  

PROTECT YOURSELF 😀

AVOID WASHING CAR IN EXTREME TEMPREATURES AND KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED 😉💦

In My Next Blog I Will Share a Before and After and a Dirty Car Cleaning Journey. 

"Empower your purchase" Tips for Checking a Used Car's Condition

 Buying a used car can be a smart financial move, but it comes with its share of risks. To avoid purchasing a lemon, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making any commitments. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to assess a used car's condition and make an informed decision.

1. Research Before You Roll:

Before even laying eyes on a potential purchase, do your homework. Research the make and model you're interested in, including common issues, average prices, and market trends. This knowledge will arm you with valuable information during negotiations and help you spot any red flags during the inspection.

2. Start with the Basics:

Take a complete round around the car. Begin by examining the car's exterior for signs of damage, rust, or mismatched paint, which could indicate previous accidents or neglect. Check the body panels for alignment and consistency, as irregularities may suggest repairs or structural damage. 

Read my previous blog for how to judge car paint.

Take a complete round around the car.

For checking the alignments of body panels sit at the side of front or back corner of the car and carefully observe the complete side. observe the door edges and match its continuity with the next panel. Mostly repaired parts have rough finishing around the corners and character lines are not sleek. 

Character lines

Carefully inspect the tire arch frame from the inside for rusted area or any cuts and welds or repairs after an accident

You can easily detect any major accident or repair work due to rust from tire arch frame

Inspect all door seals 
press them down with your fingernails if they leave a nail mark that means they have been repaired or later refixed

Inspecting Engine bay ( Most important )

Mileage 3 lacs kilometer 

• Carefully inspect car strut towers ( Compare right with the left one )
• Carefully inspect strut panels and its joints with strut towers and core radiator frame 
• Now carefully observe the condition of the engine. First start with engine assembly outlook. If its shinny and fresh, it definitely means that vehicle mileage is low. Low mileage cars usually have paint marks on the nuts and bolts.

Low mileage engine

• Look for engine oil and transmission oil leaks
• Check engine oil level (Before starting engine)
• Start car engine and allow it to maintain its normal temperature
• Open the engine oil cap and check engine blow ( Blue smoke from the engine oil cap is an indication of engine weakness )
• Shift the gear into reverse and check gear oil level
• Take a car for drive with the ac on
• Accelerate the vehicle and note any unusual noises from engine
• Note any unusual noises from suspension on rough roads
• Note any unusual noises during gear shifts  (I will discuss in detail on jerk and noises in gear in my next blog)
• Note smoke from silencer

Suspension check

1. Visual Inspection: Look for signs of wear or damage on the suspension components such as shocks, struts, springs, and control arms.
2. Test Drive: Pay attention to how the car feels while driving. Any unusual noises, vibrations, or excessive bouncing could indicate suspension issues.
3. Bounce Test: Push down firmly on each corner of the car and release. The car should bounce back and settle quickly. If it continues to bounce or feels unstable, there might be a problem
4. Uneven Tire Wear: Uneven wear on tires could indicate suspension problems. Inspect for patterns such as cupping or scalloping.
5. Alignment Check: Misaligned wheels can be a sign of suspension issues. If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel isn't centered when driving straight, get the alignment checked.
6. Check Fluid Leaks: Inspect under the car for any signs of fluid leaks, which could indicate a problem with the shocks or struts.
7. Listen for Clunks or Rattles: While driving over bumps or rough roads, listen for any unusual noises coming from the suspension that could indicate worn-out components.

 Dive into the Interior

Step inside the cabin and assess the overall condition. Check the seats, upholstery, and carpeting for stains, tears, or excessive wear. Test all the electronic features, including the air conditioning, stereo system, power windows, and door locks, to ensure they're functioning properly.

Check tires condition

• Visually inspect for any visible damage, like cuts or bulges
• Look for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues
• Check the sidewalls for cracks or signs of aging

Check car boot and tire tool kit

 Get a Second Opinion

 Check the Paper Trail : Blog coming soon

 Negotiate with Confidence

Armed with a thorough understanding of the car's condition, you're ready to negotiate a fair price. Use any issues uncovered during the inspection to your advantage, but be prepared to walk away if the seller isn't willing to budge or disclose necessary information.

**Conclusion:**

Buying a used car doesn't have to be a daunting task. With careful research, thorough inspection, and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can confidently navigate the pre-owned car market and find a reliable vehicle that meets your needs and budget. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to hitting the road with peace of mind and a quality ride at your side.

Read my previous blog on how to spot car original paint https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/04/how-to-spot-original-car-paint-like-pro.html

Comment below if you are interested in reading blogs on cars and suggest topics you'd like me to cover.

How to spot original car paint like a pro : A guide for auto enthusiasits

• THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSESSING CAR PAINT : WHY IT MATTERS FOR YOUR VEHICLE

1-Asthtetic Appeal : Enhances visual appeal of your vehicle 

2- Resale value : Condition of paint plays a crucial role in determining its resale value

 When it comes to purchasing a used car or evaluating the condition of your own vehicle, the paint job speaks volumes. However, you don't always need fancy gadgets or tools to determine the quality of a car's paint. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the art of assessing car paint without relying on any gadgets.

Back door has mismatched and blurred lines indicating that it is repainted

Inspecting the Surface and paint texture

• Start by examining the surface of the car under natural light. Look for any irregularities such as paint surface bends, dents and discontinuity of paint texture. 
• Inconsistent color or texture between panels suggests that the car may have been involved in an accident and undergone partial repainting.

  

  Right back door and fender reflecting different shades and texture 

  
  
• Examining Paint Lines: Pay close attention to the edges where different paint colors meet, such as around doors or fenders. Original paint lines should be crisp and well-defined. Blurred or mismatched lines indicate that the car has been repainted.
•  Run your fingertips gently over the paint surface. Original factory paint tends to have a smooth texture, while repainted areas may feel rough or uneven. Be wary of excessively thick or bumpy areas, which could signal a botched paint job.

• Analyzing Reflections: Observe the car's reflection in the paint surface. A uniform and clear reflection suggests a well-maintained paint job, whereas distorted or wavy reflections may indicate underlying issues with the paint quality.

  

  SIGN OF A REPAINT 
  Overspray on a rubber  
  
  

•  Spotting Overspray: Inspect areas like door jambs, trunk edges, and under the hood for signs of overspray. Overspray occurs when paint drifts onto unintended areas during the painting process, hinting at amateur repairs or aftermarket modifications

Overspray paint drop

Checking for Consistency:

• Move around the car and observe the panels consistency and character lines. Inconsistent borders of panels represents bad repair works and repaint indications. In the picture below arrows represents door lines inconsistency. Next door edge is out from the body. Suggests that car may have been involved in an accident.  

  

  The front door edge is out from the body
  
  

•  Inconsistent color or texture between panels suggests that the car may have been involved in an accident and undergone partial repainting.
• Checking for Fading or Discoloration: Look for any signs of fading, discoloration, or oxidation on the paint surface, especially on horizontal panels exposed to sunlight. Faded paint can detract from the car's appearance and may require costly restoration efforts.
• Scrutinizing Panel Gaps: Evaluate the consistency of panel gaps and alignment throughout the car. Large or uneven panel gaps could be a result of previous collision damage and subsequent repairs 

LACQUER  EDGE
ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT SIGN OF ORIGNAL PAINT

One of the most significant signs that a panel has its original paint is the lacquer edge. This feature can be found on all edges of each panel and appears as a small bump on the edge of the panel. To observe it, one needs to look very carefully.

• .Conclusion: Mastering the art of assessing car paint without relying on gadgets is a valuable skill for any car enthusiast or prospective buyer. By following these simple yet effective techniques, you can confidently evaluate the quality and integrity of a car's paint job, ensuring that you make informed decisions and preserve the beauty of your vehicle for years to come

FEEL FREE TO ASK QUESTIONS IN COMMENT SECTION

https://knowledgelogics.blogspot.com/2024/04/empower-your-purchase-tips-for-checking.html