How Winter Affects Your Car’s Paint and Clear Coat

• Road salt is highly corrosive and can eat away at your car’s clear coat, leading to paint peeling and rust.
• Snow and ice can scratch the surface, especially when using rough brushes or scraping tools.
• Freezing and thawing cycles cause moisture to expand in cracks or chips, leading to further damage.

1. Wash Your Car Frequently to Remove Salt and Debris

Regular washing is the most important step in protecting your car’s paint. Salt and road grime can quickly deteriorate your clear coat, making your vehicle more susceptible to rust and fading. How often should you wash your car in winter?

• At least once a week to remove salt buildup
• After every major snowstorm or icy road treatment
• Twice a week if you drive on highways where more salt is used

Best option: A car wash with an undercarriage rinse to remove salt buildup from hard-to-reach areas.

2. Apply a Protective Wax or Sealant

Waxing your car before and during winter creates a protective barrier between your paint and harmful elements. Types of protection:

• Spray wax for quick touch-ups after washes
• Hand-applied wax for longer-lasting protection
• Ceramic coatings for the best long-term durability

3. Avoid Harsh Snow Removal Techniques

Many car owners unknowingly damage their paint by using the wrong tools to remove snow and ice. Avoid:

• Using a rough ice scraper on painted surfaces
• Brushing snow off with a stiff bristle brush
• Pouring hot water on frozen surfaces, which can cause paint cracking

Better alternatives:

• A soft foam snow brush to remove snow gently
• A de-icer spray to loosen ice without scraping
• A garage or car cover to minimize snow accumulation

4. Keep Your Car Dry After Each Wash

Moisture left on your car can freeze in door handles, mirrors, and other small crevices, causing ice buildup and potential damage.
At THE Car Wash, hot towel hand drying ensures all moisture is removed, preventing water spots and ice formation.

5. Park Smart to Minimize Winter Damage

Where you park can impact how much exposure your car has to road salt, ice, and falling debris. Better parking choices in winter:

• Garage parking to keep your car away from snow and salt buildup
• Covered parking lots to protect against ice and falling branches
• Avoid parking near large snowbanks where salt and moisture collect

If you park outside, use a car cover to provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.

6. Get a Professional Car Wash with Undercarriage Cleaning

Even with the best at-home care, a professional car wash is essential to fully remove winter grime and salt. At THE Car Wash in Northeast Ohio, we offer:

• Express tunnel washes that remove salt and road debris
• Undercarriage cleaning to flush out hidden buildup
• Hot towel hand drying to prevent ice formation
• Wax and sealant applications for added protection

Protect Your Car’s Paint This Winter—Visit THE Car Wash Today

Don’t let winter damage your vehicle’s paint and clear coat. Stop by THE Car Wash in Northeast Ohio for a professional wash, protective wax, and expert service that keeps your car looking its best all season long.