new to me, getting stuck in to the cosmetics

[exbonneville]

This week, my first of ownership of the X5 (see my intro: http://xdrivers.co.uk/forum/index.php/t ... 494.0.html) and I have set about improving its appearance, which isn't at all bad, but could be lifted with a little time and effort.

Firstly the front headlights covers were starting to bloom and looked sad, as were the tailgate rear light rubies. The autoglym headlight restoration kit has worked miracles and I'm pleased with my efforts. Plan to use their detailing clay and polishes next to bring out the paintwork. It is the sill step that has me wondering:

Firstly is there a trick to making it look a little cleaner, shinier? And how am I supposed to get out without looking like a clown? I'm 5'10" but do like the driver's seat up a bit. whenever I get out I cannot avoid rubbing my shin along the edge of the sill. Should I actually step out onto it. I know this is a daft question but I never had the same issue with a Range Rover Sport with a similar sill arrangement.

Oh well, just wondered.

[Horizon]

Hi and welcome to the forum. I never had trouble getting dirt on my pants, but a few have complained of this happening. As for the side steps I used wonder wheels alloy wheel cleaner.

[ianst0028]

I do have the problem with scuffing my calf along the sidestep
my son uses the step to get in and out but I always think it looks awkward

[Murphybarnes]

Defo Wonder Wheels for the side step, and a scrubbing brush. Used once and never needed to use it again.

[Smeeagain]

Side steps - yes this happens to me and no you won't look like a clown.

Side steps cleaning - first pop out all the little black studs (off the top of my head there are 92 per side I think). Use a plastic trim remover or back/blunt edge of an old knife. Be careful not to split them or scratch. Take your time and you will get through them. They are pennies at a dealership and/or on eBay so get a few spare as they can split crack when removing (more prone to plotting or cracking when cold but the outside temp is perfect now for doing this job). Stick them in a bucket of warm/hot water with a heavy all purpose cleaner/degreasant and leave to soak.

Then you have  nice flat surface to set about cleaning. Autosol or similar metal polish works well, as does Wonder Wheels. With the wonder wheels follow the instruction and let it sit then agitate it then lit is sit some more. Scrub the stubborn stains/marks with a non scouring sponge pad.

Then rinse it all off and let dry. Then apply a regular wax or wheel wax os Gtechniq wheel armour - not cheap but you will only have to apply once year, maybe even every two years.

Rinse off the black studs. Get some tyre dressing and apply onto a sponge and wipe each one as you pop them back in.
Hey presto - showroom condition.Takes no more than 30-40 mins each side.

Smee