Washing Your Car in Winter – Why and How

Washing your car in winter is not just about looks – road salt corrodes the bodywork and underbody if it is not washed off. In this guide we explain when and where to wash your car in winter and how to avoid frozen locks.

Why should you wash your car in winter?

• Road salt accelerates corrosion on the bodywork and underbody.
• Dirt and mud hide damage and reduce visibility.
• A clean car is easier to inspect and maintain.
• A waxed surface withstands salt and dirt better.

When and where to wash

• In real frost, prefer a heated wash bay over washing outdoors.
• Near freezing also works outdoors, but dry the locks and seals.
• A self-service wash with a heated bay is the best choice in winter.
• An automatic wash is fine, but blowing and drying are important.

Washing step by step

1. Wash the underbody and wheel arches first – salt collects there the most.
2. Wash the bodywork from top to bottom with a soft brush or pressure washer.
3. Rinse thoroughly – the detergent must not be left on the surface.
4. Dry and protect – wipe the seals and locks dry.
5. Wax or apply protection – makes the next wash easier.

Waxing in winter

• A waxed surface repels salt, dirt and water.
• Wax protects the paint and makes winter washing easier.
• Use winter wax or a separate protective treatment at the wash.

Tips

• Do not wash the car in severe frost without a heated bay.
• Wipe the door and hatch seals dry – otherwise they freeze shut.
• Check that the locks did not freeze after washing.
• Focus winter washing especially on the underbody and sills.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to wash my car in winter? Yes – road salt and dirt corrode the bodywork and underbody. Regular washing, especially of the underbody, extends the car’s life.

Can you wash a car in freezing weather? Yes, but preferably in a heated wash bay. In severe frost outdoors, water can freeze in the locks, seals and brakes.

How is salt removed from the car? By washing, especially the underbody and wheel arches. Use enough pressure and rinse the detergent thoroughly.

What should you choose at the wash bay? A heated self-service bay, winter wax and careful drying. That makes the wash effective without causing freezing.

Find a wash facility near you

Compare car washes by city and find a heated wash facility near you. The most popular cities are Helsinki, Espoo and Turku. Also read the guide to car wash prices.