It’s important to keep your vehicle in top condition, and winter weather presents a unique set of challenges for car care. With plummeting temperatures, snow, and ice, the beauty of a fresh car wash can quickly deteriorate due to salt stains and road grit. To preserve the life and value of your investment, continue reading to learn about some important tips for protecting your car exterior in winter weather.
Do Regular Cleaning and Waxing
Regular car cleaning and waxing isn't just about keeping up appearances—it's a line of defense. In winter, dirt, salt, and grime can stick to your car's exterior, causing long-term damage. To properly clean your vehicle, you should use car-specific soap, a soft sponge, and plenty of water. After the wash, give your car a wax to protect the paintwork from the elements. Waxing helps water bead and roll off your vehicle rather than sitting and potentially causing corrosion.
Use Car Covers or Tarps
In extreme winter conditions, using a car cover or tarp can be a simple yet effective strategy in protecting your vehicle. Besides keeping your vehicle clean, a good cover can also provide insulation, potentially reducing the amount of time your car needs to warm up before driving. When using a tarp or cover, ensure that it fits snugly over your car and is secure to prevent any flapping that can cause damage to the paint.
Avoid Salt and Chemicals
One of the most critical tips for protecting your car exterior in winter weather is avoiding salt and deicing chemicals. These substances can promote rust and corrosion throughout your vehicle. To minimize exposure, try to drive when roads are dry, and immediately wash your car after driving through any salt or deicing agents. Focus on the undercarriage as well, as this area is highly susceptible to damage during winter.
Apply a Protective Coating
For an advanced level of defense, a protective coating can be a worthy investment. Products like ceramic coatings not only provide a shield against dirt but also against minor scratches and swirling. Application can be time consuming, requiring meticulous preparation, such as paint decontamination and ensuring surfaces are 100-percent clean. However, the benefits can last several months, making subsequent cleaning sessions much easier.
At Owner’s Pride, we offer a variety of ways to keep your vehicle looking its best, including professional ceramic paint coatings in Omaha, NE. The ceramic we use will increase your paint’s hardness, add depth to the color, and enhance your vehicle's gloss and shine. To protect your car paint from environmental contamination, corrosive materials, and harsh winter weather, contact us and schedule your appointment today.
