Winter weather not only lowers tire psi, thickens oil, and drains the battery, it also affects its appearance. Road salt, snow, and ice corrode and scratch auto paint, resulting in unsightly rusty spots that lower resale value. Here, review tips for preserving your car’s paint job and remember to visit your local auto body shop for severe scratches and dents.

4 Tips For Maintaining Auto Paint During Winter

1. Wash & Wax

Wash your car, including the tires. It removes dirt, grime, and other corrosive materials from the paint. Apply carnauba wax after every washing to create a protective layer between the color and elements.

Use spray wax for touch-ups, as well as a thin paint protection film. Apply it to scrape and scratch-prone areas of your car, such as the front and back.

2. Remove Snow & Ice

Lift large chunks of snow off your vehicle with your hands instead of using an ice scraper tool that will scratch the paint. Gently clean your car with a soft-bristled snow or foam brush instead of a broom to avoid further damage.

3. Cover It Often

Park your car in a garage or carport whenever you can to prevent snow, ice, and road salt. If you don’t have garage or carport access, consider a car cover to shield it from winter elements. A quality cover also saves time removing snow and ice.

4. Schedule Auto Painting Services

Contact your local auto body shop for painting services if your car sustains cosmetic damage this winter. Efficient servicing keeps scratches and scrapes from becoming rust patches that weaken the metal, as well as hurt the car’s appearance.

If you need auto painting services to maintain your vehicle, contact Schneider Auto Body. The family-owned auto body shop has been serving Boone County, MO, since 1989 and offers limited lifetime warranties on paint. Call (573) 815-0198 today to schedule an appointment or learn more about auto body shop services online.