A vehicle exposed to fire or heavy smoke requires more than ordinary cleaning. Heat, soot and combustion residue can affect technical systems, painted surfaces, fabrics and hidden cavities in different ways.

If a vehicle has suffered direct fire damage, do not start it. The condition of wiring, fuel systems, batteries and other critical components may be unknown. A qualified garage or emergency specialist should first confirm that the vehicle is safe to move and inspect.

Only after technical clearance should cosmetic restoration be assessed. Some components may be cleanable, while others must be replaced. The decision depends on heat exposure, material change, contamination and the safety function of the part.

A car parked near a fire may avoid direct heat yet still become covered in oily soot. This residue can settle across the exterior, enter the cabin and spread through ventilation paths. Dry wiping should be avoided because soot can be abrasive and easily smeared over the surface.

Exterior cleaning begins with a method designed to lift contamination without dragging it over the paint. The interior may require a complete clean of textiles, leather, plastics, glass and accessible ventilation areas.

Odour treatment comes only after the physical contamination has been removed. Smoke odours can remain in porous materials and hidden spaces, and no responsible specialist should promise complete removal before inspecting the source and extent of the damage.

For fire, smoke or water damage, contact your insurer and a qualified technical workshop first. AVP can then assess which cleaning and surface-restoration steps are appropriate for the vehicle that remains.