Preparing your vehicle for the winter is a task that is often overlooked or forgotten until it is too late. Many vehicle owners have found themselves in a long line at the hardware store, or finding essential items sold out or overpriced. But having your tires, wiper blades, heating, and lighting systems checked is mandatory to keep your vehicle running effectively throughout the cold winter months. Caring for your vehicle’s exterior should also not be an afterthought. Snow, ice, sand, salt and other harmful winter elements can shorten the life of your vehicle’s finish if it is not properly prepared and maintained. Here are a few things to consider:

Snow and ice removal can cause surface scratches on your vehicle’s paint, chrome, glass, and wheels. Do NOT attempt to remove scratches with a machine buffer. This can cause serious damage or paint burn to your vehicle’s exterior. These scratches are most effectively and safely removed by professionals. Treat all your vehicle’s vinyl tops, tires and rubber bumpers with a cleaner and conditioner to prevent further damage. You may also choose to have your vehicle mirror-glazed followed by a carnauba wax application offered at Service First.

Have your vehicle’s interior vacuumed regularly during winter months. Make sure to also have your floor mats replaced or cleaned and treated with a cleaner and conditioner to protect against harmful winter elements and maintain your vehicle’s appearance. This will protect your vehicle’s interior from slush, salt and mud brought in from outdoors.

Salt is the most common cause of corrosion. With an abundance of this harmful substance on roads, parking lots, and driveways during the winter months, metal components of your vehicle must receive special care. Salt is kicked upwards and underneath your vehicle, where is dries. If it is not removed, the salt will corrode the metal parts underneath your car. Bring your vehicle into Service First for our complete and/or undercarriage wash.

Make sure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies such as jumper cables, a shovel, flashlights and a tow chain. Also make sure you have a breakdown kit (See fall tips). Winter is unpredictable

On the most basic level, make sure you keep your windows clean by having your vehicle washed regularly. Carefully wipe down door jambs and any weather damage if possible. Turn the heat on high while you roll windows up and down 3-4 times. Displace water in your vehicle’s keyholes by manually turning your key in the slots- don’t forget your trunk!. Have our staff at Service First inspect your vehicle to ensure that all systems such as heating and defrosters are running safely and effectively. You will be surprised at how much you will learn and how much time and money you can save by doing this.

If you have any questions, please feel free to visit us at Service First Carwash and Detailing Centre. Our friendly and professional staff can recommend the right service for your vehicle. See Detailing Services