Ways To Protect Your Car's Exterior In Winter

Your car is obviously a great investment, so it is only natural to try extending its life and protecting it from extreme weather. Winter comes with cold winds, ice, snow and low temperatures that are sure to take a toll on your car, especially its exterior.

To prevent costly damage, you have to think of practical precautions to take to keep your car's paint, body, wheels and other exterior parts safe during winter. Here is a look at how you can protect your car from the harsh extremes of winter.

Wax your car

Waxing your car is tedious, but it is hard work that pays off by keeping your car looking great. Additionally, waxing also protects the car's paint from ultraviolet rays and corrosive materials such as salt, slush and grit on winter roads. Traditional carnauba-based waxes are less likely to withstand the harsh extremes of winter, so you are better off going with synthetic wax as good cover for your car paint.

Sealants based on an acrylic resin are the best for providing that much-needed protection for your car's exterior during the cold months. A coat of sealant will prevent corrosion caused by snow and salt as well as fading caused by ultraviolet radiation.

The sun's rays can be extremely fierce during winter especially when reflected by ice, and they often cause rubber seals around the doors and trunk of your car to crack. A good solution is to use rubber spray in these areas to keep the seals elastic and structurally sound.

Getting the right wax finish can be difficult in winter due to the low temperatures, so you might have to take the car to the local detail shop for a wax touch-up. However, you can nail the required consistency if you wax your car in a heated garage.

Your tires and wheels are also susceptible to winter damage. Wheel wax can help prevent corrosion caused by salty deposits in the wheel wells, while you can talk to your local mechanic about an appropriate sealant product to protect your tires from the harsh road conditions.

Wash your car frequently

Washing your car in winter is very important as it removes slush, sand and salt on the body and in the wheels to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a high-pressure hose to regularly flush out debris from the car's undercarriage and other areas that are usually difficult to clean such as the wheel wells and bumper.

Be sure to take your car in for regular oil changes and fluid checks as well, especially if you live in a very cold area. Different shops specialize in different types of vehicles, such as BMW repair services, so be sure to take your car to a shop that is certified to work on your car.

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