If you have a car equipped with a touch screen or infotainment system, chances are you’re used to being able to access everything from your music library and navigation maps to climate control settings at the touch of your fingertips. But what happens when that touchscreen is laden with fingerprints and dirt, causing the display to become less responsive? Don’t worry – cleaning the interior of your car’s touch screen isn’t all that difficult. In this blog post, we will walk you through some easy steps for keeping your car’s digital dashboard looking its best!
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Step 1: Turn off the car screen
Before you do anything with the touch screen, it’s important to turn off the power to your system. This will help keep you from inadvertently pressing buttons or launching apps while you clean.
You don’t want to fire any pixels that can be damaged by water. Additionally, be sure to disconnect your car from any power source before you start cleaning.
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Step 2: Find your cleaning materials
When you’re ready to get started, gather your cleaning supplies:
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Microfiber cloths or wipes
This type of cloth is the same material used in cleaning eyeglasses and other delicate surfaces, so it won’t scratch the screen. It also absorbs more dirt and dust than other materials, making it ideal for wiping away grime.
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Important Note!
Do NOT use paper towels or tissue paper to clean your car’s display. These materials may leave behind fibers or lint, which can interfere with the touch screen’s sensitivity. They are also highly abrasive and can easily scratch the interior’s surface.
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A small bowl of distilled water
Distilled water will help you get a streak-free finish when you clean your car’s touch screen. Avoid using tap water, as this can leave residue behind that could damage the display.
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A mild detergent
If your car’s touch screen is particularly dirty, you may need a bit of extra cleaning power. A mild detergent can help break down any grease and grime on display.
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Step 3: Start wiping
Using a dampened (never dripping wet) microfiber cloth, start wiping the display in gentle circular motions. Pay special attention to fingerprints and other smudges on the screen. Once you’ve wiped away as much dirt as you can, use a dry microfiber cloth to dry off any remaining moisture.
Do not press too hard on the touch screen as this can cause permanent damage.
If you need a bit more power to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime, you can use a damp cloth combined with your mild detergent However, be sure to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous part of the display before applying it directly to the screen.
Should I use alcohol?
Using an alcohol-based cleaner may damage the touch screen’s oleophobic coating, which is there to repel oil and fingerprints. Stick to a mild detergent and water mixture for the best results (and the least amount of damage).
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Step 4: Polish
When you’ve finished wiping the display, use a dry microfiber cloth to polish away any remaining residue. This will help your screen look as good as new! It is recommended to clean the touch screen in a motion from top to bottom; this will help prevent streaks from forming.
Important Note!
The carport and other exposed parts of the screen should only be cleaned with a dry microfiber cloth. Make sure you never spray liquid directly onto these areas, as this could damage any delicate components. So avoid getting moisture and cleaning solutions in close proximity to the carport.
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Step 5: Power on
Once you’re done cleaning with your detergent/water mixture and have finished polishing with a dry cloth, it’s time to turn the power back on. This will restore your car’s touchscreen to its original glory!
To ensure proper care and regular maintenance, it’s best to clean the touch screen once a month. This will help keep your car looking like new and ensure that all of its features are functioning optimally.
In the future, as much as possible, do not touch the screen if your fingers have any oil or dirt, wet, chip stains, or any other substance that could damage the surface. This will help you keep your car’s touchscreen display looking like new for years to come.
With these five steps, you can keep your car’s digital dashboard looking as good as new. Taking care of it regularly and using only the right cleaning materials will help ensure that it continues to look its best for years to come.
FAQ
How do I clean fingerprints off my touchscreen?
Using a damp microfiber cloth and a mild detergent, gently wipe the fingerprints off in small circles. Make sure you use only distilled water to avoid any residue or buildup that could damage the display. Finally, polish away any remaining residue with a dry soft cloth. Fingerprints tend to be sticky and may require a bit of extra elbow grease to get rid of.
Can I use glass cleaner to clean my car's touch screen?
No, it is not recommended that you use glass cleaner on your car's digital display. Glass cleaners are highly abrasive and contain ammonia, which can damage the oleophobic coating of the touch screen.
What should I clean my car's touch screen with?
Microfiber cloths are the best materials to use when cleaning your car's digital display. They are gentle and non-abrasive, which makes them perfect for wiping away fingerprints and other smudges without damaging the screen. They are tested for cleaning tablets, cellphones, laptops, and other delicate surfaces.
Can you use alcohol wipes on touch screens?
It might be tempting to use alcohol wipes on your car's touch screen, but it is not recommended. Alcohol, of any type, damages the screen's ability to repel oil and fingerprints, making the screen more prone to smudging in the future.
Conclusion
Keeping your car’s digital dashboard clean is not difficult, but it does require a bit of extra care. With this guide, you’ll have no problem wiping away fingerprints, smudges, and other dirt from your touchscreen display – without damaging its delicate components. Just remember always to use the right cleaning materials and techniques, and you’ll have a clean and shiny display for years to come!
