Winter Weather & Your Ride!

T

Theroy

New member
Hi all and Happy New Year!



Well, we got some snow here in the Northwest and it got me thinking about winter weather and how Autopians prepare for it. I'm also curious to know how you keep up your cars during the winter months. What do you do, how do you do it, and why? Being new to detailing, I'd like to use this as a learning experience. I'm sure it changes depending on where you live but what can you tell me?



Thanks!



Theroy
 
Welcome to Autopia :wavey

During the winter, I try to wash the car as frequently as possible. Of course when it's cold out, it's not as enjoyable. My limit is 30 degrees.

Prior to winter, I did an overhaul and put a sealant on the car to help protect it from the salt and sand.

For starters, click on the Learn button up top and check out David's articles. They are very well written and there is one for "Taking on Winter".

Good Luck !
 
I threw some #20 on all of our cars right before winter came, and then got in application each of them again a couple days ago. I try to wash my vehicles about every two weeks because it's hard to find time with school and work when the weather is warm enough. I've been out in the morning at 29 degrees once, but decided that heated water and playtex gloves only do so much when it's that cold. Mid 30's is fine though.



-FordTaurus
 
>>During the winter, I try to wash the car as frequently as possible.



How often does that usually end up being? I read David's article above and it was very enlightening but I wonder how many can maintain that rigorous system? I live in an apartment and it's hard enough to keep my car clean in the summer but really difficult in the winter.



David mentioned using a synthetic wax in the winter. I'm a newbie so my question is, is this the same as a sealant? Do you use non-synthetic waxes in the summer? Are synthetics bad for the finish or something?



David also mentioned quick detailing sprays when it's too cold to do the job properly. What are some good ones?



What about those who live in the REALLY cold parts of the country?



I can see it being easier to treat the interior in the winter: just crank up the heat, close the doors and turn on the music!:cool:



Theroy
 
During the summer, spring and fall, I'm usually able to wash my car once a week. Sometimes I'll let it go for 1 and 1/2 or 2 weeks.

In the winter, I aim for every 2 weeks due to weather. If I get 2 nice weekends in a row, I'll do it each week.



Sealants are known to be more durable. So most people will put a sealant on the car like Zaino, Klass or Meg's #20 prior to the winter. Then try to wash the car when they can and the sealant will hopefully last throughout the winter.



Quick Detail sprays are personal preference. I like Zaino Z6 and Meguiar's Final Inspection. I use Zaino on my car and those 2 QD sprays work well for me. Some people who use the Klass AIO and SG may use Sonax or Einman Fabrik's Clear Pearl.



Some other products that are used during winter months are Poorboy's spray and wipe and QEW (Quick and Easy Wash). QEW has multiple threads throughout the forum as of late. These are two products that allow you to wash/clean a car with out a hose.



Hope this helps a little.
 
I just don't live where the winters are harsh! ;)



No real extra prep down here in the Dallas area, but I do recommend a sealant for winter to my customers because occaisionally we do get rainy periods and one or two snow or ice days on average per year and sometimes I might only be able to wash their cars twice a month instead of every day. With a sealant, I have a little more peace of mind.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top