Georgia winters may be mild compared to the North, but they still present unique challenges for vehicle care. Cold temperatures, road treatments, and winter grime require adjusted washing techniques to keep your car protected without causing damage.
Why Winter Washing Matters in Georgia
Even in our relatively mild winters, Georgia roads get treated with salt and brine when ice threatens. These chemicals are corrosive and will damage your paint, undercarriage, and brake components if left to accumulate. Regular winter washing removes these contaminants before they cause permanent damage.
Additionally, winter brings different types of contamination: road grime, mud from construction sites, and organic matter from fallen leaves. This winter cocktail bonds more stubbornly to cold paint than summer dirt.
Best Practices for Winter Washing
Choose the Right Time
Wash your car when temperatures are above 40°F and rising. Midday on sunny winter days is ideal. Avoid washing when temperatures will drop below freezing within a few hours, as water trapped in door seals, locks, and trim can freeze and cause damage.
Use Warm (Not Hot) Water
Warm water helps dissolve winter grime more effectively than cold water. However, avoid hot water on cold paint, as the thermal shock can potentially damage the clear coat. Lukewarm water is the sweet spot.
Focus on the Undercarriage
Road salt accumulates on your undercarriage where you cannot see it. Use an undercarriage wash attachment or visit a car wash with undercarriage spray to remove salt buildup. This is especially important after driving on treated roads.
Dry Thoroughly
Water left on the car can freeze in door jambs and locks. Use a quality drying towel and pay special attention to areas where water collects.
Lubricate Seals
After washing, apply silicone lubricant to door seals to prevent freezing and cracking. This simple step prevents costly seal replacement.
Ceramic Coating: Your Winter Ally
Ceramic coating makes winter car care significantly easier. The hydrophobic surface prevents salt and grime from bonding to your paint, making removal effortless. Many ceramic-coated vehicles can be cleaned with just a rinse during winter, reducing the need for full contact washes in cold weather.
The chemical resistance of ceramic coating also protects against the corrosive effects of road treatments, providing an extra layer of defense during the winter months.