Top 5 Winter Car Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Winter can be harsh on vehicles, with wet, cold conditions and even road salt all taking a toll on your car. While winter car maintenance might not be the most exciting task, keeping up with it will help your car survive the season looking and running its best. At BHB Auto Detailing, we’re all about making it easy to protect your car—especially in winter. Here are five common winter car care mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping Regular Car Washes

One of the biggest mistakes people make in winter is skipping regular washes, thinking the car will just get dirty again. But road salt, grime, and moisture build up quickly, leading to corrosion and rust. Not washing your car in winter can cause more damage than the cold weather alone. Regular rinses, especially of the undercarriage, are crucial to removing salt and protecting your car’s bodywork.

Avoid It: Consider scheduling bi-weekly washes to keep salt and grime at bay. With BHB Auto Detailing’s mobile services, you don’t even have to brave the cold—we come to you, whether at home or work, to keep your car looking great and protected.

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2. Neglecting Tire Pressure Checks

Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Many drivers overlook this, but keeping tires at the correct pressure is vital, especially on slippery winter roads. Under inflated tires can wear unevenly and provide less traction, putting your safety at risk.

Avoid It: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month in winter. Most gas stations have air pumps, and keeping a pressure gauge in your glove box makes this quick and easy.

3. Forgetting to Apply a Protective Coating

Protective coatings aren’t just for summer shine—they’re essential in winter too. Waxing or applying a ceramic coating before winter can help repel road salt, ice, and snow, which can otherwise dull and damage your car’s paint. A durable protective layer helps prevent scratches and makes your car easier to wash throughout the season.

Avoid It: BHB Auto Detailing offers both wax and ceramic coatings to provide long-lasting protection against winter elements. With our mobile service, we bring the protection to you, so your car stays shielded from salt and grime.

4. Ignoring the Interior

Winter is tough on interiors too. Muddy boots, wet coats, and road salt all find their way inside, wearing down carpets and upholstery. Without regular cleaning, this buildup can damage fabrics and leave unpleasant odors. Keeping your interior clean not only protects your car’s value but also makes for a more pleasant ride.

Avoid It: Start winter with a deep interior cleaning and consider adding rubber floor mats that are easy to rinse off. BHB Auto Detailing can take care of your interior and exterior, so you’re covered inside and out.

5. Forgetting to Stock Winter Essentials

Winter can bring unexpected weather, and it’s important to be prepared in case of emergencies. Many people overlook basic winter car essentials, only to find themselves stuck when they’re needed most. A good winter kit can make all the difference if you’re stranded in bad weather.

Avoid It: Keep a winter survival kit in your trunk. Essentials include a flashlight, blanket, water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and a small shovel. It’s a small step that can have a big impact if you’re ever stuck in winter conditions.

Don't Wait! Stay Ahead of Winter

Book Your Mobile Detailing with BHB Today!

Winter can be hard on your vehicle, but by avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your car safe and looking its best all season long. If you’re looking for a helping hand with winter prep, BHB Auto Detailing offers mobile detailing services throughout Kitsap County. From protective coatings to deep interior cleans, we make it easy to protect your car this winter—right from your driveway.