Winterizing Your Car’s Exterior

Snow and ice, as well as the scraping it takes to remove them, can be as rough on your vehicle as they are on you. This article will walk you through a few products and procedures that will give your vehicle just what it needs to weather the winter storm.

The Paint

Because of how often cars get dirty in the winter months, car owners tend to wash their car less- the opposite of what your car needs! Thanks to all the grit, salt and slush on the roads, it’s even more important to keep your car clean during the winter.

But it’s not too late.. there is still a lot you can do to retain your car’s value. A quality wax or sealant combined with correct maintenance will get your paint finish through the winter.

The Wheels & Tires

Tire protection is two-fold. For starters, the rubber needs to be kept supple in freezing temperatures to prevent cracking. Secondly, make sure your tires are properly inflated. The air inside tires shrinks in cold temperatures. If they become under-inflated, the tread will not make enough contact with the road to maneuver on icy asphalt.

There are also protective waxes which acts as a snow and ice repellent. It does require regular reapplications to maintain a high level of protection but the results are well worth the effort.

The Windshield & Wipers

In preparation for winter, we recommend changing your windshield wiper fluid with one that has antifreeze added to it. That way, your windshield can stay clean and frost-free. Also, Fall’s a great time to inspect windshield wipers and replace them if they are worn or have become hardened.

If you have a garage, use it for sheltering your car. This will help protect your paint job, guard against ice on the windshield and guard against the fluids and/or water in your radiator from freezing. If you do not have shelter for your car, invest in a car cover. While it won’t save you from freezing fluids, it will keep snow and ice off the windshield and your paint, and help protect your car from salts that might be used on the streets in your community.