1. Wash away winter residue

Clean the body, wheel arches and accessible underbody areas with appropriate facilities. Clean interior glass carefully because low sun makes film and smearing particularly visible.

2. Inspect chips and corrosion

Look for fresh stone chips, failed paint and corrosion around the bonnet, sills and wheel areas. Small damage is easier to address before it spreads.

3. Check service fluids correctly

Follow the vehicle manual for engine oil, coolant and screenwash. Never open a hot cooling system, and do not mix products unless their specifications confirm compatibility.

4. Assess the battery

Slow starting, warnings or an older battery justify a proper test. Conventional and high-voltage systems require different qualifications; do not improvise around unfamiliar terminals.

5. Choose tyres for actual conditions

Swiss conditions do not reduce to an “October to Easter” rule or one temperature. Consider forecast, route, altitude and legal roadworthiness, then check pressure, damage, age and tread.

6. Inspect wiper blades

Clean the glass and blade edges. Replace blades that are split, hardened or still smear after cleaning.

7. Clean seals

Remove grit from door, window and roof seals and use a compatible maintenance product where appropriate. Dressing cannot guarantee watertightness if a seal is damaged or misaligned.

8. Check ventilation and cabin filtration

Airflow, odour and manufacturer intervals help determine whether the cabin filter or air-conditioning system needs service. No universal 15,000-kilometre interval or “100% pollen removal” applies to every vehicle.

9. Test exterior lighting

Check all lamps and warning messages. Cloudy lenses, moisture or an uneven beam may need technical assessment.

10. Listen for exhaust damage

Unusual noise, fumes or visible corrosion warrant a workshop inspection. Exhaust and emissions components are not cosmetic repair items.

11. Inspect convertible roofs

Clean fabric roofs and drains according to manufacturer guidance, avoiding close high-pressure contact. Check seams, seals and operation before the first longer trip.

A spring clean reveals condition; AVP’s in-house service can then address the technical items that sit beyond detailing.