No matter the season, nature is tough on a car’s exterior. Thankfully, you can take some steps to protect your car’s exterior, even without a garage.
With winter quickly approaching, it’s a great reminder to consider protecting your car’s exterior when you don’t have a garage. The elements are tough on a vehicle, no matter the season; however, winter can be the hardest, especially if you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow and ice. Salt on the roads, slush stuck to the wheels, and fluctuating temperatures wreak havoc on a car’s paint job.
It’s not just winter that causes problems! Every season brings something new, like rain, sleet, and burning sunshine, while your car sits outside. You can’t make a garage magically appear, but you can take steps to limit weather damage on your car’s exterior.
A Drop-Cloth Cover
Drop-cloth covers for vehicles are made of plastic and are machine washable. You throw them over your car to protect it! It’s one of the simplest solutions to protect your car’s exterior. You can even get a customized cover to make your vehicle look like a race car or something else entirely.
Use a Sealant
Don’t confuse a car paint sealant with car wax, even though they are both important for paint protection. Paint sealants usually come in liquid or foam form, and you should spray them onto a clean car. Once dry, they add protection from the elements.
Car Wax
One of the best ways to protect your car’s exterior when you don’t have a garage is to wax it. Waxing your car has many benefits, such as repelling snow and ice. Wax creates a water-resistant surface on your vehicle’s paint job, causing snow and ice to slide off. Plus, waxing your car makes it look beautiful!
Cover the Windshield
Your car’s windshield can withstand a lot as the seasons change, including freezing temperatures in the winter. However, low temperatures make it easier to crack. When your car is sitting outside in the cold, use a windshield cover made of polyester. This material holds heat better than other materials.
Check Nearby Foliage
What is the tree situation near your car when it’s parked outside? Keep an eye on dead or dangling branches that can easily blow off in a storm. You don’t want them flying into your car! In extreme cases, trees could fall from high winds or even lightning strikes, so avoid parking near trees if possible.
Sometimes, parking outside is unavoidable. Luckily, you can still protect your car’s exterior when you don’t have a garage. Following a couple of these steps will give your vehicle a better chance of staying in great condition.
Submitted by: (Kelly Schoessling)
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