7 Tips for keeping your car clean this winter

Think you don't need to wash your car in the winter? Think again.   

Ontario winters are tough on cars. With all the snow and slush build-up, your car needs extra protection from the elements and road salt. So, it is essential to keep your car clean to protect it from rust. 

The good news? A little effort goes a long way. Keeping your car clean in winter isn’t just possible—it’s essential. With the right tools and techniques, you can protect your vehicle from the season’s worst offenders. Here’s how to stay ahead of the grime and keep your car looking (and running) its best.

Layer up

Dressing for the job is half the battle. If you’re braving the cold to clean your car, think layers. Choose warm base layers and a waterproof outer layer.  

Insulated rubber boots will keep your feet dry and warm, and waterproof pants and a jacket will keep you comfortable. Waterproof gloves can help protect your hands from becoming damp or frostbite while you get your car all squeaky clean. If you don't have waterproof gloves, try layering thin gloves like running gloves under rubber or latex gloves. 

Take shelter

Wind and water don’t mix—especially when you’re trying to wash your car in sub-zero weather. If you can, find a sheltered spot like a garage or carport to keep the chill at bay. No luck? A coin-operated car wash is your next best friend. Not only do the bays block the wind, but they also have everything you need to blast away salt and slush. 

But, if manual carwashes aren't your thing, enjoy a wash from the comfort of your warm vehicle at Shell. Plus, CAA Members save 10 per cent on car washes. 

Avoid hot water

Glass and hot water never mix well, especially in cold temperatures. Using hot water on your windshield or windows can expand minor cracks or scratches in the glass. Very hot water can also cause any protective wax on your car to melt.  

Before cleaning, warm up your car, defrost the windows, and hose it down. Alternatively, find a sunny spot to let your car sit before washing it. Plus, warm water, the sun, and preheating your car can help avoid freezing while you wash your vehicle this winter

Ditch the scrub brush

When it comes to winter car washing, leave the scrub brush behind. A dense scrub brush can be great for removing caked-on mud and dirt from your vehicle in the summer. But this can grind rough salt and sand into your paint and scratch your car in winter. Instead, rely on a good rinse to get your car clean.   

Or use a foaming soap spray for some suds. Soap sprays can remove stubborn dirt and grime without risking scratches to your paint job. 

Don't forget the underside

When washing your car, pay close attention to the undercarriage. The nooks and crannies of your vehicle are vulnerable to rust and corrosion from road salt. Use a hose to spray down your wheel wells and anything underneath. You can buy anti-corrosion soap additives to add to your winter car wash arsenal.  

But for the top defence against rust this winter, trust the rust experts at Krown. They are Canada's number one rust protection company and provide top-of-the-line rust protection to keep your car in top shape. 

Winter wax

After your car is all nice and clean, consider some preventative measures. Waxing your car can help it stay clean longer and protect it from the winter elements. Wax acts as a protective layer on your vehicle, repelling water and snow. Plus, the more you wax, the longer you can go between car washes. 

Stop the freeze

After washing, do your best to dry off your vehicle. Compressed air can help remove water from nooks. To prevent your vehicle from freezing, clean in sections. Pick one panel and focus on it before washing the rest of your car.   

Next, give your wipers a bit of extra attention. Turn on your wipers and washer fluid and spray for at least 10 seconds. It will protect your wipers from freezing. Then, roll down your windows (yes, even the sunroof) a few inches to prevent freezing in the seals, and don't forget to open the fuel door. After each wash, wipe the rubber seals along the inner edges of your doors, then use compressed air to clear any water from them. 

Stay warm this winter with Shell

Download the Shell Mobile App and set up Shell EasyPay™ to pay for your fuel from your phone. Plus, there is no need to freeze outdoors. Using the app, you can also prepay for your car wash. 

Make sure to link your CAA Membership in the Shell app and pay using Shell EasyPay to have all your savings at your fingertips. CAA Members save 3c/L on fuel, and 10% on car washes and in-store purchases. 

At participating locations. Conditions apply.