Freezing temperatures, road salt, ice, and snow can make winter harsh on your vehicle, especially its paint job. To avoid an untimely visit to the mechanic or auto body shop for repairs, perform routine maintenance. Here’s what you can do to keep your car protected during the colder months.

How to Protect Your Vehicle in Winter

1. Change Wiper Blades

Some auto specialists recommend replacing wipers as often as twice a year to ensure they get the job done efficiently. However, that doesn’t mean they can get rid of snow, frost, or ice on your windshield; instead, use a scraper to avoid damaging your blades. Set them in a raised position when parked to prevent them from freezing onto the windshield.

2. Keep Windows Clear

Whatever the season, visibility is of utmost importance while driving. Clear all the windows—from front to back—to ensure you have an uninhibited view of the road. Minimize fogging on your windshield by positioning the heater to blow warm air directly onto it. Use a nonfreezing washer solution for fuss-free cleanups.

3. Protect the Auto Body

Vehicles tend to get dirty quicker during winter because of snow, slush, road grime, and salt. Prevent these from clinging onto your car and hard-to-reach spots like the undercarriage and wheels with regular washing. While your vehicle may develop scratches and dings over the years, applying a protective layer of polymer wax over the paint will prevent a premature visit to the auto body shop.

4. Switch to Winter Tires

Your safety on the road this winter largely depends on your tires. Worn-out rubber on your wheels can send the car skidding or spinning on slick or ice-covered pavement because of poor grip and traction. Before heading out, check that the tread depth and tire pressure are within the recommended ranges. Once temperatures dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to gear up with winter tires.

5. Check Under the Hood

If you’re not familiar with the engine, leave these tasks, such as oil changing and battery testing, to the professionals. They will check whatever’s ailing your vehicle to make it run more efficiently during cold weather. As for you, ensure that your fuel tank is more than half full in case of emergencies.

Without proper preparation, winter can take its toll on your vehicle—especially its body. For quality repairs, head to Novak's Collision Center in St. Peters, MO. This auto body shop has provided top-notch services, including car scratch removal and paintless dent repair, to St. Charles County motorists since 1995. Call (636) 936-0020 or visit them online to learn more about their collision repair and auto body services.