Winter Paint Care Tips & Tricks
Your car's paint takes a beating in the winter, especially with the harsh and unpredictable New England weather. Dirt, salt, ice, and snow are all unforgiving. We know winter paint care can be challenging but we're here to help. Here are a few tips and tricks to help your paint stay picture-perfect during the winter months:
Washing
Washing your car in the winter can be a real challenge. Between storms, use a high-pressure sprayer to rinse away the leftover grit. The pressure will help to loosen and remove road salt and grime- especially on the wheels, wheel wells, and undercarriage- reducing the chances of permanent damage in hard-to-reach areas. Occasionally opting for a full touchless wash, when the weather allows, will also help prevent damage from the salt, ice, and dirt build-up.Brushing
Brushing is one of the easiest ways to damage paint, as most people don’t use great care when clearing snow off their cars. It’s best to use a soft snow brush, or a foam brush, and avoid using hard plastic scrapers you might use on your windshield, as they can scratch painted surfaces. Make sure to leave yourself plenty of time to clear your car after a storm, as it’s easier to scratch and scuff paint when you’re in a rush.Storage
If you have to park outside during the winter months, you should wash your car often as that's the best way to ensure optimal winter paint care. Your car will be exposed to the salt and elements but frequent washing will minimize this damage. If you can, storing your car in a garage is probably the best way to prevent damage from the winter weather. But, if your vehicle is covered in snow, your garage floor will also be. Using a floor mat with a raised, removable lip around its edges will help to hold all the liquid until you have the opportunity to squeegee it out of the garage. The mat also catches oil to prevent stained concrete. If your car is older, you might also consider a car cover. Many options offer heavy-duty protection against moisture and impact; some lighter-weight covers are also manageable enough for everyday use while offering excellent protection against the elements.Give it a spring cleaning
When spring (finally) arrives, give your car a thorough detailing- washing, cleaning off stuck-on residue with a clay bar, and applying a compound and waxing if you want extra protection. This will remove all traces of the harsh winter and make your paint look its best.At V&F
At V&F Auto, we strive to provide our customers with a well-rounded knowledge of all things automotive. Since 1988, our family-owned and operated service center has been providing top-quality auto repair services to Agawam, Feeding Hills, Southwick, West Springfield, and the surrounding Massachusetts communities. If your car needs maintenance or repair before this winter season, call us at (413)314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.
This article was originally published in November 2017 and has been updated.