Six Tips For Your Winter Wash Up

If you’re like most people, washing your vehicle during the winter months probably isn’t at the top of your to do list. And, let’s be honest, we can’t say we blame you. Braving the cold to make your car sparkle and shine until about five two minutes after you hit the road can be a little discouraging, but it’s well worth it. You could put off this chilly chore until spring arrives, but doing so has its consequences. 

Failing to keep your car clean during the cold season can lead to a slew of problems for your vehicle in the long run. To put it simply, cold weather is no friend to your car. It can cause metal and steel to contract or shrink, fluids to thicken and become sluggish, and all of that salt on the road can mean major corrosion if left unattended. Not to mention scraping snow and ice from your vehicle can really do a number on your paint job. 

Luckily for you, Centennial Auto Wash takes the hassle out of keeping your car clean all year long. Follow these simple steps to protect your vehicle (and its resale value) from everything winter throws your way.

Step One - Be Prepared

We don’t like to side with Disney villains, but Scar actually got this one right. Preparation is key for a winter wash. So what comes first? Don’t dress to impress. Layer up and wear as much water-proof clothing as possible. Next, you’ll want to pack a clean towel or two, lock de-icer or WD40, and make sure your vehicle’s washer fluid reservoir is topped up. 

Step Two - The Heat Is On

When you arrive at Centennial Auto Wash, the very first thing you’ll want to do is crank up your radio and throw on Glenn Frey’s old classic (just kidding). What you’ll really want to do is crank up your heat to its maximum setting before leaving your vehicle, and don’t forget those front and rear defrost buttons, either. While this will make your ride nice and cozy when you finish your wash, it will also prevent water from freezing to your windows, weather seals, and more. 

Step Three - No Scrubs

TLC didn’t have time for scrubs, and neither do you. Going hard with a scrub brush when your vehicle is covered in dirt, grit, and whatever else was laying in the road will leave your vehicle looking like it’s fresh out of A Nightmare on Elm Street. Grinding these particles into your paint will damage its clear coat and can result in some pretty nasty scratches.  

Instead, opt for rinsing with warm (not hot) water, making sure to pay special attention to the wheel wells and undercarriage. Once you’re finished, give the area around your wiper blades some special attention. This is where the cabin air vents are located, and if they get clogged up with ice or slush, your heater and defroster won’t work properly. 

Step Four - Life In The Fast Lane

At this point in your wash, time is of the essence. The second you finish rinsing the salt, snow, and grit from your vehicle, hop into the driver’s seat and put your wipers to work. Don’t be afraid to really soak your windshield - hold your lever for a good 10 seconds or so while the wipers are in motion. This will help coat your blades with wiper fluid, preventing ice build-up, while clearing away any water that might freeze over the small openings of your washer nozzles. 

Step Five - Cold As Ice

You may not be willing to sacrifice your love, but you’re going to have to sacrifice a little warmth at this stage of the game. You’ll need to roll down your windows (and open your sunroof if you have one) about an inch or so to prevent any ice from forming between your windows and their seals. The same thing goes for your doors, trunk, and fuel opening. When you have everything opened up, grab your clean towel and go to work on the rubber weather seals around the inner edges of your doors and trunk. Wipe everything dry and leave it all open until you’re completely finished to prevent anything from freezing shut. 

Step Six - Handle Me With Care

Last but not least, take a few moments to work each of your vehicle’s door handles. This will help keep any ice out of the mechanisms. And if you really want to go the extra mile, find that WD40 or lock de-icer you brought and spray some into your vehicle’s keyholes to keep them clear.