In winter, vehicles often drive in rainy and snowy weather, inevitably becoming dirty. However, washing a car in winter not only depends on the weather but also requires specific techniques. Below are some precautions and tips for winter car washing.
1. What's the Best Temperature to Wash a Car in Winter?
Winter car washing should be based on the weather, much like washing quilts or cotton-padded clothes. Check the weather forecast before washing. If it's going to be rainy for several days after washing, it's pointless.
When considering washing your car in winter, check if there's rain or snow in the forecast for the next few days. Otherwise, it's not cost-effective if rain or snow dirties your freshly washed car. Moreover, consider the temperature. If it's cold enough for ice to form on the ground, it's best to postpone washing, as water droplets hiding in crevices might freeze and damage the vehicle.
2. How Should Cars Be Washed in Winter?
It's better to use lukewarm water for winter car washes. On the one hand, it can melt the icy dirt; on the other hand, it can effectively wash off the de-icing agents stuck to the car. Moreover, water droplets on the car won't freeze immediately after washing, giving you ample time to dry the vehicle.
During the wash, try to avoid spraying water directly into the car's crevices for extended periods. These gaps are hard to dry, and if too much water gets in and freezes, it could damage the car.
3. Dry the Car Timely
You can use a cloth to wipe off the water on the surface. For hard-to-reach crevices, use an air gun to dry. Always ensure parts that frequently move, such as windshield wipers, door handles, and car windows, are dry to prevent ice formation. After washing, if road and weather conditions permit, drive the car around to use the car's generated heat to dry the moisture.
4. Use Special Protectors for Specific Parts
After washing, consider applying a protective wax layer to the paint to prevent damage from de-icing agents. You can also apply protectants to tires, wipers, and door and window seals to prevent these rubber components from becoming brittle and breaking due to low temperatures. Special tire wax is available for tires, and specific rubber protectants are designed for wipers and seals.
