How to Wash Your Car in Cold Weather

As winter sets in, the rain, snow and ice dirties cars very quickly. And since all that grime can be harmful to your car, it’s important to wash your vehicle when you get the chance between snowfalls. Some people prefer the convenience of a drive-through car wash, but these too can harm your car. Touchless car washes often add harmful agents to shampoos to force them to break down grime without scrubbing, while traditional car washes with scrubbing can begin to leave swirls in your car’s finish over time. Instead, many car enthusiasts prefer hand washing.

But hand washing isn’t always an easy task in the winter. Many homes have frozen driveways and outdoor water sprockets, making it a near impossible task to accomplish on your own property. However, many people find success at a local DIY car wash bay. Before heading over, pack up a few of your own supplies to ensure their safety for your vehicle. Here’s what you’ll need:

Two buckets with secure lids

Car wash shampoo

A wash mitt

Towels for drying

Spray wax/sealant

Any gloves you wish to use for washing

Fill both buckets with very warm water and dilute shampoo into one of the buckets. Secure the lids, pack everything into your trunk and then drive to the car wash bay.

Once you get there, scrape off any lingering snow or ice until your car is clear. Then use the bay’s pressure washer (on the rinse cycle) to rinse off your whole car. Wash as you normally would with the soapy water and a wash mitt, scrubbing from top to bottom. However, you will have to work fast on very cold days so you can finish before ice can build back up on your car. After scrubbing, rinse again and quickly towel dry the car. Then you can spray on your wax/sealant product of choice, coating windows and lights as well. It may be difficult to keep your car in great shape during winter, but a quick wash is better for your car then waiting until spring.

Winter has all sorts of hidden dangers for your vehicle. Call Auto Insurance Discounters at (816) 252-2255 for more information on Kansas City auto insurance.

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