Following a thrilling ice racing adventure on Vermont’s Lake Elmore, I returned with my Honda coated in a layer of salt akin to the rim of a drink from an airport lounge. This wintertime dilemma is all too common, leading me to wonder about others’ strategies for car care in the colder months. What does your winter car cleaning routine look like?
My current approach involves visits to automated car washes. Despite the potential damage to the paintwork, sometimes the chill justifies the choice. The drawbacks, however, are undeniable. Touchless washes employ severe chemicals and potent water jets to break down filth, while soft-touch washes can leave scratches, particularly when distributing the salt encrusting the vehicle. Clearly, these methods are flawed.
When it comes to my older, well-worn Civic, I’m less concerned about scuffs than I am about corrosive salt. Nonetheless, braving the icy elements to wash it myself often feels too daunting. Consequently, into the automatic wash it goes, though I try to avoid making it a regular habit.
Whenever it’s viable, I prefer to use a standard spray booth, arming myself with robust gloves designed for chemical handling to prevent frostbite. These gloves not only help me stay dry, but they’re also thick enough to provide comfort while I kneel on the harsh concrete to target the underbody of the car with the pressure washer.
Ordinary dishwashing gloves won’t cut it—I acquired these durable ones from a hardware store, offering both protection and dexterity. Andrew P. Collins
Truth be told, I find little joy in the act of car washing and I’m far from skilled at it, even under optimal conditions. Yet the notion of road salt silently corroding my winter-driven vehicles in New York is an even less pleasant thought.
What kind of tactics or advice do you have for maintaining a clean car during the frosty season?
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FAQs about Winter Car Wash
- Is it really necessary to wash my car in winter?
- Yes, washing your car in winter is essential to remove the road salt that can cause rust and corrosion.
- What is the best time to wash my car in winter?
- The best time is on a relatively warm day and when the temperature is above freezing to prevent the water from freezing on the vehicle.
- Can automatic car washes damage my car’s paint?
- Potentially, yes. Touchless car washes may use harsh chemicals, and soft-touch washes might leave scratches, especially when salt is present on the paint.
- Are there any tips for washing my car by hand in cold weather?
- Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and cold, and try to wash the car in a sheltered area if possible to avoid the wind and cold.
- How can I protect my car’s undercarriage from salt?
- Use a pressure washer to clean the undercarriage thoroughly and consider applying an undercarriage protectant.
Conclusion
The wintry months present a unique challenge to vehicle maintenance, particularly in regions where road salt is a necessary evil. While automated car washes offer a convenient solution, they can also pose risks to your vehicle’s finish. Hand washing, with the right protective gear, seems to be a safer bet, though it requires braving the cold. The balance between vehicle preservation and comfort during winter car washes is a personal choice, and often, a compromise. It’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but staying informed and taking preventative measures can help ensure your car emerges from the winter season unscathed.
