Winter weather can take a toll on your car’s paint. That’s why it’s important to prepare your vehicle properly for the cold temperatures and the road salt and sand that accompanies slick and snowy conditions. From waxing your car to checking the condition of your tires, there are several steps you can take to keep your car looking its best during the cold months. Automotive Paint Protection is the answer. Let’s explore the options.
Wax On, Wax Off
After a good wash, the next step is to use a clay bar or clay mitt to remove any stubborn dirt or contaminants that may have become embedded in the paint over time. Clay bars are also effective at removing surface rust that develops over time due to exposure to moisture. When using a clay bar, you must use clay bar lubricant so that you do not scratch or damage the paint in any way. Once you have finished with the clay bar, be sure to wash and wax your vehicle again as an additional layer of protection against any contaminants.
Another option for automotive paint protection is waxing – one of the most important steps in protecting your car from winter weather. A good wax job helps protect against debris, salt and grime that can be kicked up by passing vehicles or sticking to the sides of your car due to ice buildup. If you’re not confident in applying wax yourself, consider getting a professional wash and wax done every couple of months during the winter season.
Applying a sealant or protective coating on top of the existing wax layer is yet another form of winter protection. A sealant provides an extra layer of protection that helps prevent water spots from forming on your car and assists in blocking dirt from embedding in the paint. Sealants are available at most auto parts stores and come in both liquid and paste form – whichever one you choose will depend on personal preference and budget constraints. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully when applying sealants or protective coatings so that you get optimal results with no damage done to your vehicle’s paint job.
The most effective and long lasting way to protect your vehicle year round is through automotive paint protection film – an increasingly popular process that provides lasting protection to automotive finishes. It adds a layer of durability and product longevity to car paint that regular waxing cannot achieve. Installing automotive paint protection film is the surest way of keeping automotive finishes free from stone chips, scratches and ultraviolet damage. Though costlier than other solutions, such as ceramic coating, automotive paint protection film provides long-term protection for automotive surfaces, making it a wise investment for car owners wanting to protect their vehicles’ appearances over time.
Check Underneath
The underside of your vehicle takes a lot of abuse during winter driving, so it’s important to inspect it regularly for any rust or corrosion that may have accumulated over time. Additionally, make sure all nuts and bolts are tightly secured and check for any signs of damage or wear and tear on hoses and belts under the hood. Taking care of these issues now can help prevent larger problems down the line.
Lights On
Your headlights are essential for safe driving at night and during inclement weather so make sure they are working correctly before heading out on a long drive. Inspect each light bulb from time to time as well as all other exterior lights such as fog lights, brake lights, hazard lights, etc., ensuring they are clean and fully operational. Keep some extra bulbs in case one ever burns out while on the road.
By taking a few simple steps, like waxing your car frequently and inspecting its components regularly, you can ensure that your vehicle is prepared for whatever winter throws its way. Doing so will also help maintain its value and extend its life span into many winters to come! As always when dealing with automotive maintenance tasks, if you’re unsure about how to handle something yourself it’s always best to consult an expert auto detailer or mechanic who will be able to advise accordingly. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to tackle any winter weather conditions!
Choose the Right Installer
Call us! Here at Automotive Elegance, we specialize in Paint Protection Film, Ceramic Coatings, and Window Tints using products from XPEL. We are the recipients of the XPEL US Dealer of the Year Award in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. Contact us today to schedule a booking.