A car covered in snow with snowflakes on its windshield
Living in a place with dramatic weather changes can be tough on your car (as well as your truck or motorcycle). From scorching summers to freezing winters, the elements can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s paint, interior, and performance. But with a bit of preparation and some smart strategies, you can shield your beloved ride from the worst nature throws its way. Here are some tips to keep your vehicles looking sharp and running smoothly, no matter the weather.

Park Smart

The first line of defence is all about where you park. During the summer’s relentless heat, seek out shaded areas whenever possible. A shady spot under a tree can make a tremendous difference, keeping your car cooler and preventing the interior from becoming an inferno. If shade isn’t available, consider investing in custom shade sheds. These portable structures offer a convenient way to create a cool, protected haven for your vehicle, especially useful in driveways or parking lots lacking natural shade.

Wash and Wax Regularly

A clean car is a happy car, especially in harsh weather. Regular washing removes dirt, grime, and pollutants that can damage the paint job over time. It’s like a protective layer being stripped away, leaving your four-wheeler vulnerable to the elements. Washing also helps prevent the sun’s harsh UV rays from baking the paint, leading to fading and cracking. Don’t forget to follow up with a good coat of wax. Wax creates a barrier, repelling water and dirt while offering extra protection from the sun’s UV rays.

Winterise Before The Chill Sets In

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to winterise your vehicle. This includes checking the antifreeze level and ensuring it’s appropriate for the anticipated low temperatures. Don’t forget to top off your windshield washer fluid with a winterised version to avoid frozen lines and ineffective cleaning. You must inspect your wiper blades. Cracked or worn blades won’t clear snow and ice effectively, compromising your visibility during winter storms.

Mind Your Tyres

Tyres are the only point of contact your car has with the road, so it’s imperative to keep them in top shape, especially in harsh weather conditions. Regularly check the tyre pressure, as cold temperatures can cause them to lose air. Maintaining proper pressure ensures optimal handling and fuel efficiency. Consider switching to winter tyres if your area experiences heavy snowfall. Winter tyres have a softer tread compound that performs better in cold weather and provides superior traction on snow and ice.

Battery Power Up

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can wreak havoc on your car battery. During the winter, a weak battery is especially likely to fail, leaving you stranded in the cold. Have your battery checked before the winter season hits. You can also invest in a battery maintainer, a handy device that connects to your car and keeps the battery topped up when not in use.
A close-up of a vehicle battery with red and black terminals

Defeat The Frost

Waking up to a frosty windshield is a winter morning staple. Avoid the morning scramble by investing in a good quality car cover. A well-fitting cover protects your windshield from frost and snow accumulation, saving you precious time on cold mornings.

De-icing Done Right

Removing ice and snow from your car can be a tedious task. However, using the wrong methods can damage the paintwork. Avoid using boiling water, which can cause cracks in the windshield. Instead, opt for a dedicated ice scraper and a de-icing spray. Similarly, if your windshield is covered with dust, brush it off instead of wiping it, as it can lead to scratches.

Interior Care

Don’t neglect the interior. During the summer, protect your dashboard and upholstery from sun damage with a windshield sunshade. This simple tool blocks the sun’s rays, preventing the interior from becoming excessively hot and causing cracking or fading. Likewise, in the winter, use seat covers to protect the upholstery from moisture, which can stain and damage the fabric.

Closing Remarks

With these hacks, transforming your car from a weather-beaten victim to a resilient champion isn’t daunting. Your little effort will go a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your car looking its best, no matter what nature throws your way. Get out there now and enjoy the ride safely.