Competition BMW of Smithtown

Blog / BMW

CLEANING YOUR BMW INTERIOR

As the owner of a BMW, it’s important to maintain the quality of the car to ensure that it continues to have appeal over time. If you take care of leather, you’ll get an extremely comfortable and beautiful seating surface that makes your BMW a cut above other vehicle interiors. A comfortable interior makes traveling more pleasant all the way around, keeps your BMW looking new and vibrant, and gives the interior seating a longer lifespan. At Competition BMW of Smithtown, we want to help you keep your interior clean by listing ways to make it as easy as possible. No matter if you have cloth or leather seats, use these step-by-step instructions to keep your ride comfortable during every trip through Nesconset and beyond!

How to Clean Leather Car Seats.

To get started, you will need the following products:

  1. Leather cleaner, saddle soap, mild leather soap, or 1 part white vinegar/2 parts linseed oil solution
  2. Microfiber towels
  3. Interior brush (soft-bristled, not a stiff carpet brush)

Instructions:

  1. Before starting, check your owner’s manual for any specific instructions for your model and product recommendations.
  2. Vacuum the seats to remove all particles, being sure to not scratch the leather. Use the smaller attachments or an air compressor to get into the cracks.
  3. Spray your leather cleaner on the microfiber towel to wipe the seats clean, removing surface dirt and oils.
  4. If you have perforated leather seats, spray onto the brush to apply to the seats, gently scrubbing the surface with the brush.
  5. Wipe the seats with a dry microfiber towel.

How to Clean Fabric Car Seats.

You will need:

  1. Cleaning solution spray designed for fabric (but not an all-purpose cleaner)
  2. Interior brush (soft or medium-stiff bristles, no stiff carpet brushes)
  3. Microfiber towels

Instructions:

  1. Vacuum the seats to remove all dust, dirt, crumbs, and hair. Use the smaller vacuum attachments to get into the cracks and seams of each seat. (If you have a lot of pet hair in your car, you may need to also wipe down the seat with a lint roller or special pet hair removal tool.)
  2. Open the doors or windows for ventilation, and then lightly spray the cleaning solution onto the seats. Avoid oversaturating the fabric to prevent mildew issues.
  3. Use the interior brush to gently massage the cleaning solution into the fabric.
  4. Wipe suds out of the fabric with the microfiber towel. Be sure to work quickly, because if the fabric dries before you do this, the dirt will be pulled back into the fibers.
  5. Continue this process until you are satisfied with the condition of your seats.
  6. Vacuum the seats once more to accelerate the drying process. Let the seats finish drying before using the car.

(Note that cleaning cloth seats will make them damp, so give yourself enough time to clean before your next drive).

Alternatives to Fabric Cleaner.

If you don’t have any upholstery cleaner accessible, try using these additional cleaning options:

  1. Baking Soda: Mix ¼ cup of baking soda and 1 cup of warm water together, using a toothbrush to scrub out tough stains. After scrubbing, let sit for 30 minutes, then use a clean cloth or towel to blot away the stain.
  2. Vinegar: Combine1 cup of vinegar, a few drops of dish soap, and a gallon of hot water. Dab onto the seats and scrub with a brush. Use clean water and a microfiber towel to remove the dirt and suds.
  3. Club Soda: Use a spray bottle to apply a light layer of club soda to the fabric, and a soft-bristle brush to scrub out the stains. Be sure to wipe away the dirt as it comes to the surface.
  4. Laundry Detergent: Mix detergent with hot water and apply the solution with a spray bottle or sponge. Use cold water on a microfiber cloth to scrub and wipe the dirt away.

Maintain Your Vehicle with Competition BMW of Smithtown.

The service pros at Competition BMW of Smithtown have a wide variation of service tips and tricks to keep your new car performing at its best for years to come! Whether you have questions about your warning lights or want to learn how to program your key, we’re here to help! Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment.

At Competition BMW of Smithtown, we strive to provide the best for our client’s whether you come to visit us to pick out your new car or to get your car serviced. Call or visit us today for any other questions you may have! 

599 Middle Country Rd. Smithtown NY, 11780 

(631) 265-2208

Posted in:

Related Posts

THE NEW 2027 BMW IX3!

Discover the 2027 BMW iX3 The all-new 2027 BMW iX3 is here to redefine electric driving. Built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, the iX3 combines long-range capability, premium technology, and dynamic performance for drivers who want both efficiency and exhilaration. Expected to arrive in summer 2026, the iX3 starts around $60,000 and sets a new benchmark for luxury electric SUVs. Performance That Excites The iX3 delivers up to 463 horsepower and can accelerate from 0–60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. At the heart of the experience is BMW’s innovative Heart of Joy system, which integrates drivetrain, braking, and energy recuperation into one unit. Paired with BMW Dynamic Performance Control, this ensures a responsive, precise, and controlled drive every time. Up to 463 horsepower with smooth acceleration Advanced driving dynamics with integrated systems Impressive Electric Range Designed for both city and long-distance driving, the iX3 offers an estimated up to 400 miles of range. Its next-generation 800-volt architecture also allows for ultra-fast charging—reaching 10% to 80% in roughly 21 minutes at a DC fast charger. Up to 400 miles of estimated range Rapid 10–80% charging in about 21 minutes Smart Charging and Connectivity Equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS), the iX3 provides access to a growing network of fast chargers. Its intelligent route planning automatically maps out optimal charging stops, making long drives easier and more convenient. Access to extensive charging networks Intelligent charging stop planning based on driving habits Next-Level BMW Technology The iX3 introduces the BMW Panoramic iDrive system, powered by BMW Operating System X, offering an intuitive interface via touch or voice. BMW Panoramic Vision projects key information directly on the lower windshield—keeping attention on the road while providing vital data. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant further personalizes the experience, learning from prompts to assist with navigation, entertainment, and vehicle controls. Panoramic display spanning the windshield Voice-controlled assistant for a personalized experience Elegant Design Inside and Out The iX3 blends clean, aerodynamic lines with signature BMW styling. Highlights include the available illuminated kidney grille, flush door handles, and sculpted body surfaces. Inside, premium materials, ambient lighting, and a driver-focused layout create a luxurious, functional cabin. With generous cargo space and smart storage solutions, the iX3 balances style with everyday practicality. Sleek, aerodynamic exterior design Refined interior with flexible storage and comfort features Advanced Safety and Driving Support The iX3 comes with standard Driving Assistant Plus, including distance control, steering assist, active blind spot detection, and active park distance control with side protection. These features enhance confidence and convenience in all driving conditions. Comprehensive driver-assistance technology Safety and convenience for daily driving

BMW’S IMPACT ON THE U.S. ECONOMY — AND WHY IT MATTERS TO DRIVERS IN SMITHTOWN

When people think of BMW, they usually think of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge engineering. But there’s another side of the BMW story that doesn’t get talked about enough — its massive impact on the U.S. economy. From American jobs to U.S.-made vehicles and billions invested right here at home, BMW is deeply rooted in the United States with their Spartanburg, South Carolina BMW Plant. And that commitment directly benefits BMW drivers everywhere — including right here at Competition BMW of Smithtown. Let’s break it down. BMW’s American Story Started Over 30 Years Ago Employees signing the first steel beam at BMW’s grand opening ceremony in Spartanburg County. on November 15th, 1994. BMW officially put roots down in the U.S. back in 1992, when it announced plans to build its first full assembly plant outside of Germany in South Carolina. At the time, the company committed to investing $600 million and creating 2,000 jobs. Fast forward to today, and that investment has grown to nearly $16 billion, with seven major expansions completed over the years. The most recent expansion — announced in October 2022 — included a $1.7 billion investment to prepare the plant for electric vehicle production and to build a new high-voltage battery assembly facility in Woodruff, SC. The expansion will enable BMW to build at least six fully electric models by 2030, and the high voltage batteries to fuel those vehicles will be assembled right down the street in Woodruff. 🔗 Source: https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/history.html Inside BMW’s Largest Plant — Right Here in the U.S. BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is now the largest BMW manufacturing facility in the world, and it’s an absolute powerhouse. Here’s what’s happening there every day: Over 11,000 employees working onsite More than 1,500 BMWs assembled daily Around 70% of the steel and aluminum used is sourced in the United States Vehicles exported to nearly 120 countries worldwide In fact, BMW is one of the largest automotive exporters by value in the entire U.S., with exports totaling about $10.1 billion in 2024. 🔗 Source: https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/our-plant.html Many of the BMW X models you see on the road — including the X3, X5, X6, X7, and XM — are built right there in South Carolina. BMW = Jobs, Jobs, and More Jobs BMW’s impact goes way beyond the factory floor. According to studies from the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, BMW’s presence in the U.S. supports: Over $38.5 billion in annual economic impact from manufacturing alone $43.3 billion when including sales, marketing, and financial services More than 120,000 American jobs that wouldn’t exist otherwise And while South Carolina feels the biggest impact, BMW also operates facilities in states like New Jersey, Ohio, California, Utah, and Illinois, spreading economic benefits across the country. 🔗 Source: https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/our-plant/popup/economic-impact.html Why South Carolina Feels It the Most Nearly 89% of BMW’s total U.S. economic impact comes from its South Carolina operations — and the numbers are impressive: $26.7 billion in annual economic impact statewide Nearly 43,000 jobs supported across South Carolina $3.1 billion in wages and salaries Over 500 in-state suppliers, most located in the Upstate BMW also has one of the highest employment multipliers in the industry. For every 10 jobs created at the plant, another 25 jobs are created elsewhere in the state. 🔗 Source: https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/our-plant/popup/economic-impact.html So What Does This Mean for BMW Drivers in Smithtown? Even though the factory is hundreds of miles away, BMW’s U.S. investment matters here in Smithtown, NY more than you might think. 🇺🇸 Strong U.S. production helps ensure consistent vehicle availability 🔧 A massive supplier network supports parts quality and reliability ⚡ Continued investment in EV production supports BMW’s electric future 🚘 A stable American footprint helps BMW deliver long-term value to owners When you shop at Competition BMW of Smithtown, you’re not just buying a luxury vehicle — you’re supporting a brand that’s invested heavily in American workers, innovation, and manufacturing excellence. Experience BMW for Yourself Whether you’re looking for a new BMW, a certified pre-owned model, or expert BMW service right here on Long Island, Competition BMW of Smithtown is here to help. Stop by our showroom or explore our inventory online to see firsthand what makes BMW — and its American-built lineup — so special. Sources BMW Group Plant Spartanburg – History & Investment https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/history.html BMW Group Plant Spartanburg – Facility & Economic Impact https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/our-plant.html BMW Manufacturing Economic Impact Studies https://www.bmwgroup-werke.com/spartanburg/en/our-plant/popup/economic-impact.html

HONORING SERVICE | THE BMW MILITARY INCENTIVE ON VETERANS DAY

As we observe Veterans Day, it’s a fitting time to recognize and honor the men and women who have served our country – and the sacrifices made by their families. At Competition BMW, we are privileged to serve a community that includes many veterans, active-duty, reservists and military families. In that spirit of gratitude, we invite our military-eligible customers to take advantage of the BMW Military Incentive – a special way for BMW to say “thank you” for your service. What is the BMW Military Incentive? BMW’s Military Incentive is a program that offers eligible individuals $500 to $5,000 toward a new vehicle lease or purchase (depending on model and configuration). Eligibility includes: Active duty, reserve, National Guard personnel Veterans and military retirees First responders (where applicable) How it works – what you should know Verification: To access the incentive, you’ll verify your eligibility using the online tool ID.me (used by BMW for secure identity confirmation). Eligible Vehicles: Most BMW models qualify. Combine Offers: The military incentive can typically be combined with other BMW offers or campaigns (with some exceptions) At our dealership: We can help you confirm eligibility, submit the verification, and apply the incentive toward your new BMW. A Message of Thanks To all veterans, active duty members, reservists, military families, and first responders: thank you. Your commitment and sacrifice enable us to carry on our daily lives safely and freely. On this Veterans Day, we pause with gratitude – and hope that this incentive from BMW helps make your next BMW ownership experience a little brighter.