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Drove some very dusty, dirt washboard roads recently. With the short wheelbase of the Mini, I had to take it slow or shake the teeth out of my head! The little car did great, no issues, I am happy to say.
Fine dust was kicking up in clouds as we drove. This got into every nook and cranny of the car, so it was wash and detail time when I returned home.
I use a local quarter car wash that has the hand held sprayer. Many quarters later, paying particular attention to the wheels and brakes (dust will make the brakes squeal), the Mini was looking good again. The final spray was a liquid wax they offer that actually works reasonably well.
When I hand wax, I use Meguire's Cleaner Wax. The stuff is easy on and easy off and does a wonderful job. BTW...Only wax a clean car, or you will see a lot of fine scratches!
One job that always seems to be harder than it should be... cleaning interior windows.
Here is an easy cleaner that really works…
Add about a half a cup of vinegar and a drop or two of liquid dishwashing soap to a quarter bucket of warm water. Use this with a washcloth on the interior/exterior windows and wipe dry with a clean towel... perfect! No streaks, just crystal clear windows.
Very easy and it won't harm the dash if some splashes on it. Will try this on my home windows next time I get motivated.
The round digital display also needed some help. Lots of fingerprints... I opened the doors, moved the key away from the car and waited for a short time. This allowed me to wipe the screen without it being active.
I know some don't like the interiors of the new Minis... I do. I vacuum the cloth and wipe the seats and hard surfaces with a damp cloth.
Enjoy those Minis!
Last edited by BULLPUP01; Nov 19, 2025 at 08:13 PM.
I've owned a variety of 'exotics' over the years... Lotus, Alfas and others, but this Mini is as much a blast to drive as the others. It really is the best of both worlds.
It handles winding mountain roads with ease, and I always enjoy taking it out for road trips.
Unfortunately, with the end of nice Fall weather, I will have to wait until next Spring.