As winter approaches and temperatures dip below freezing, drivers must start preparing their vehicles for the harsh conditions of snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. Cold weather can impact everything from your battery to your tires, so ensuring your car is winter-ready is essential for safety and longevity. Here’s a guide to some key tasks to help ensure your car stays in good shape during winter.
Avoid Washing Your Car in Freezing Temperatures Below -5°C (approximately 23°F)
When temperatures drop below freezing, washing your car outside is not recommended. If you’re using a hose, the tiny water droplets can freeze almost immediately when they hit your car’s cold surface. This can damage your car’s paint and lead to scratches. Even hot water doesn’t help much; it evaporates quickly and can freeze almost instantly, causing more harm than good. If you must wash your car in cold weather, use lukewarm water, but be aware of the risks.
Use Caution When Removing Snow from Your Car
While clearing snow from your car before driving is important, avoid using brooms or sticks. Snow can act like tiny glass shards and scratch your vehicle’s paint. Instead, gently remove snow by hand, using a soft brush or a specialized snow scraper. Wear gloves to protect both your hands and your car’s finish. Never pour hot water on snow or ice to melt it, as the sudden temperature change can crack your windshield, especially in icy conditions.
Remove Road Salt and Calcium Chloride Immediately
If you’ve been driving on snowy roads, your car will likely pick up calcium chloride, commonly spread on roads to melt ice. While effective at preventing ice buildup, calcium chloride can be highly corrosive to your vehicle’s body, wheels, undercarriage, and windows. It’s important to wash it off as soon as possible. A salt remover product can be helpful, or regular car soap and water can be used. Clean the undercarriage, as salt can accumulate there and cause long-term damage.
Thoroughly Dry Your Car After Washing
After washing your car, it’s essential to dry it properly. Use a microfiber towel to wipe down your car, especially in areas where water can get trapped, such as mirrors, door handles, wheels, and windows. If you leave moisture on your car in freezing conditions, it can freeze and cause problems, such as door handles freezing shut or windows that won’t roll down. Also, dry your tires completely, as they can freeze and become slippery.
Store Car Washing Supplies Indoors
It’s important not to leave car washing supplies in your trunk during winter. The cold temperatures can cause bottles of cleaning products to freeze and crack, potentially causing spills or leaks. Instead, store these items indoors at room temperature to avoid damage and ensure they’re ready for use when needed.
Wash Your Car During Daylight Hours
It’s always colder in the early morning and late evening, so the best time to wash your car is during the middle of the day when temperatures are generally warmer. This reduces the risk of water freezing on your vehicle. Aim for the hours between noon and 4 p.m., when the sun is typically at its peak, even in winter.
Dry and Clean Floor Mats Thoroughly
Winter often brings more dirt, snow, and slush into your car. Left unchecked can lead to mold, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. Clean and dry your floor mats thoroughly before reinstalling them in your car. Damp mats create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, so it’s important to dry them thoroughly before putting them back.
Use Lubricants and Rust-Proofing Sprays
After washing your car, consider applying lubricant and rust-proofing spray to parts more vulnerable to cold and moisture, such as door hinges, locks, and the undercarriage. These sprays help prevent rust formation and reduce the risk of parts freezing or becoming stiff due to cold temperatures. Rust-proofing products are widely available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers.
Be Efficient When Washing Your Car
While it’s tempting to take your time and wash your car thoroughly, it’s best to be efficient in winter. Even after drying, some moisture will remain on your car, and in freezing temperatures, it can quickly turn into ice. To prevent this, finish washing your car as soon as possible. You may also want to cover your car with a vehicle cover to keep it warmer and help prevent moisture from freezing.
Start Your Engine Before Washing
Before cleaning ice or snow off your car, starting the engine and letting it run for about 10 minutes can be helpful. This will warm up the car, and the engine and defroster heat will help melt the ice and snow on its surface. This makes it easier to wash off and reduces the risk of scratching your car’s paint when removing the ice or snow.
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