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Harsh weather can do a number on your vehicle’s paint job. Snow and ice and all that scraping are just as rough on your car as they are on you, dulling its shine and making it susceptible to rust. Give your car what it needs to weather the winter storm. Try these four strategies for protecting your car’s finish during the next cold season.
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Keep It Clean
During the winter months, dirt and road salt accumulates on your car’s painting finish and can wreak havoc on its appearance. Not only is worn paint unattractive, but it will also reduce your vehicle’s value if you ever decide to sell it or trade it in.
Take your wheels through the car wash or use a pressure washer to blast away grime. Rinse well and remember to use a microfiber towel to dry it thoroughly. You don’t want the water to freeze on your finish.
Pay close attention to the lower parts of your vehicle, such as behind the wheels and under the quarter panels. Ice, snow, and salt tend to build up and stick in these areas. To keep your vehicle protected all winter long, make sure to wash your car before the cold weather hits.
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Apply Wax or a Finishing Polish
Don’t forget about the importance of wax during the winter months. Sure, wax protects a vehicle’s paint job during summer’s heat, but keeping it polished all year will ensure it always looks its best. Adding a fresh coat of wax before the snow starts falling lays down a layer of protection during the cold months. This sheen helps protect your car’s paint, creating a shield against road salt and grime.
As tempting as it may be to start with the wax, remember to follow step one first. Otherwise, all you’re doing is waxing over the dirt, causing micro-scratches in your paint job. Those scratches will lead to corrosive damage over time.
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Go the Extra Mile With a Quick Detailer
To get your car through the winter months with its paint intact, consider going the extra mile with a quick detailer. This versatile liquid spray is the ideal complement to polymer wax and provides car-fanatic level paint protection. Detailers are easy to use and deliver that glossy finish we all love.
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Put Your Car in Storage
Consider storing your car inside during the winter months. Your garage or carport may be filled to the rafters with storage, so take a weekend to make room for your vehicle before the snow flies. If you don’t plan on driving it often, invest in a fleece-lined car cover. This added tier of defense will keep your paint job in pristine condition.
Winterizing your car is an essential step in the overall maintenance process. Providing additional protection for your vehicle during winter’s harsh conditions is vital to maintaining its finish. Protect your car’s resale value with these tips. Don’t wait until the first freeze. Start winterizing your car or truck today.
Image via Flickr by Jim Bauer | CC BY-ND 2.0.
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