A CAR expert has revealed the exact number of times drivers should wash their cars this winter to avoid steep repair fees.
Isaac Lee, who helps run a chain of car washes, gave tips on preparing your car for winter in an exclusive chat with The U.S. Sun.
Drivers should make sure to wash their ride regularly this winter, a car expert has warned[/caption]
Drive-thrus like Soapy Joe’s Car Wash can rinse off rust-causing residue which includes road salt and other snow-melting agents[/caption]
Isaac Lee, the chief operating officer of Soapy Joe’s Car Wash, said rust repairs can cost a whopping $500 in an exclusive conversation with The U.S. Sun[/caption]
In the wintertime, cars can build up layers of salt and ice melt from the roads, which means that regular cleaning is essential.
Lee, the chief operating officer at Soapy Joe’s Car Wash, advised drivers to get a professional wash at least twice a month to prevent rusting.
“Visiting your local car wash on a bimonthly basis is the best move as they use special detergents designed for cold temperatures that dissolve salt build up and can help minimize potential damage,” he said.
Not all car washes are equal, though, and drivers should choose special upgrades that target the wintery residue.
“Drivers should also be sure to select the car wash service that also cleans the undercarriage of their car as this area is prone to build-up,” Lee said.
“Keeping it clean will extend your vehicle’s life.”
Rust can form from the salt patches left on cars because of a chemical reaction that occurs.
Ignoring your dirty car in the winter and letting rust build up can lead to a $500 repair bill to resolve the issue, Lee warned.
Driving through the car wash in the middle of winter is a great practice, but car owners can also take preventative measures before the snow falls.
Getting a protective wax is key, as it will act as a barrier between the paint and harsh elements, preventing expensive damage.
According to Lee, most car washes use ceramic coating, but drivers should pay to upgrade to graphene if it’s an option.
This is because it “lasts a lot longer and provides vehicles with a glossy finish, protection against UV rays, and unmatched water, dirt, and salt repellant,” the expert said.
How often should you clean your car?
Professionals recommend an interval that may be surprising when cleaning your car.
Depending on where you live and what your typical day looks like, the suggested interval for cleaning a vehicle is every two weeks.
“Regularly washing your car removes everyday contaminants like tar, road debris, and bird droppings that can ruin your car’s paint job over time,” wrote Progressive.
“But there’s no one right answer to this question — it depends on factors like your lifestyle, the climate where you live, and how you store your vehicle when you’re not driving it.”
However, if applying a fresh coat of wax after every cleaning session or if the vehicle is parked in a garage, cleaning may not have to be done as regularly.
“Waxing your car creates a barrier between your clear coat – the layer on top of the paint – and outside elements, so it won’t be able to absorb and affect the exterior of your car,” the site continued.
Source: Progressive Auto Insurance
CAR WASHING TIPS
Those who prefer the convenience of washing their cars at home should make the most of their DIY cleaning.
First, it’s key to collect a bucket, car wash soap, soft sponge or microfiber cloth, a hose with an adjustable spray nozzle, and towels for drying, according to Lee’s company Soapy Joe’s.
Then, put your hose on its highest setting to rinse off any layers of dirt, debris, or leaves before whipping out the soap.
This is important because it can prevent scratching the paint while scrubbing.
Now that the car is wet fill your bucket and add the recommended amount of soap.
Using a sponge or cloth, gently wipe down the exterior of the car while making sure no bird droppings or stubborn spots are missed.
Finally, rinse your car off and use a towel to buff it dry.
The washing tips come after drivers were warned to avoid wasting money on a winter maintenance service this year.
