Keep It Clean This Winter

Tips for Washing Your Car in the Winter

Summer is often thought of as peak car washing season by gearheads. But actually, washing your car in the winter is even more important for preserving its functionality and enhancing its appearance. Depending on where you live, road salt can quickly begin to corrode your car, particularly the undercarriage. Help your car last longer and look better with frequent winter washings. Here’s how to do it right.

When and How Often

It’s a good idea to wash your car about every two weeks in the winter. If your area has a long stretch of snowy or icy weather and the road crews have been particularly aggressive with the rock salt or brine, then you may want to wash your car more frequently. However, try to schedule your washes for days when the temperature is at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, you may inadvertently freeze up your door locks.

The Right Gear

You’ll want the usual car detailing products that you use in the summer, such as high-quality car shampoo and wheel cleaner. You’ll also want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the job. Wear waterproof boots and gloves, and plenty of warm layers. If you don’t have waterproof gloves, wear rubber or latex gloves underneath your winter gloves.

The Right Prep

It can be tempting to start blasting your car with hot water to remove ice and snow. Unfortunately, this can crack your windshield. It can also strip away the protective wax. Instead, rinse your car thoroughly with warm water. (It’s also helpful to let your car idle for a while beforehand to warm it up.) Spray the surfaces with the APEX Foam Cannon 2.0 to remove salt and road grit before scrubbing. Otherwise, you may grind the salt into the paint, creating scratches. Then, wash and rinse your car as usual, paying particular attention to rinsing the undercarriage. (Remember to clean the wheels first.)

When nothing but the best for your car will do, you can put your trust in APEX Auto Products. We develop industry-leading formulations that will make your car sparkle inside and out. Shop our tried and true car detailing products today and enjoy our 100% risk-free guarantee.