Before cleaning your car, check the recommendations made in your owner's manual and on the labels of any products you use.

The sun can be brutal on cars. Make sure you treat yours before the dog days of summer set in.

• The roof, trunk lid, and hood need the most attention on the outside of your car. Make sure you wax your car before the temperature soars too high.
• Dashboards and other plastic, rubber, or vinyl parts may become faded from the sun. Use a protectant to help prevent this type of damage.
• Leather seats should be treated with a conditioner to help prevent cracking.
• Park undercover as much as possible to avoid direct sunlight.