Even if your stainless steel exhaust system is very resistant, it is necessary to clean it regularly to keep it in good condition and thus maintain the performance that this engine part offers.
It is therefore no surprise that we will inform you that an exhaust exposed to dirt and dust on an ongoing basis can deteriorate.
We will therefore remember that an exhaust must be maintained and cleaned like any other engine component in your vehicle.
That being said, Swapland offers you advice and tips on how to properly clean your stainless steel exhaust, of which here are the indications necessary for its longevity.
Our advice for cleaning your exhaust
Degrease the stainless steel exhaust first by cleaning it with hot water and mild dish soap.
Use a cotton cloth or soft sponge to remove any greasy material .
Then rinse your cloth with clean water and wipe off any traces of soap .
It is recommended to use a clean, dry cloth to completely dry the stainless steel exhaust system .
The more you rub it, the more luster the polished steel will become. Polishing not only helps preserve appearance but also prevents tarnish .
Efficient solutions to clean your stainless steel exhaust
Marseille soap
To give it a high shine , stainless steel should be washed with a mild soap such as that of Marseille or a black soap with olive oil diluted in lukewarm water.
Wet sandpaper
Another cleaning solution for stainless steel is to use a piece of sandpaper by letting it soak in clean water for about 30 minutes beforehand. Then take the paper soaked in water and pass it over the elements of the exhaust system with a back and forth movement (moderate pressure), always in the direction of the grain of the metal . This cleaning-sanding operation helps to rid the metal of small particles that may have attached to it. If necessary, iron your sandpaper in water if it seems to be drying out.
Commercial products
There are a variety of commercial products available for cleaning stainless steel. Read carefully what they contain because some are downright abrasive and risk scratching your exhaust ; which can cause it to degrade.
Some precautions on these cleaning methods
When cleaning or polishing stainless steel, you should:
Avoid rubbing in circular motions ; better to follow the grain of the metal for maximum results.
Avoid using harsh cleaning products (for example, those that contain bleach acid), as you may lose the luster of the metal. Steel wool is also not a good option, as it can leave small pieces of fiber that attach to metal.
A final secret is not to wait until the exhaust system is very dirty before cleaning it thoroughly. Regular maintenance is the golden rule to adopt.
If you still have doubts, questions for which you would like advice, do not hesitate to contact us .
Also visit our online store to discover all the products in our Exhaust range .