Blue vehicle getting sprayed down with water in daytime

Is it safe to get a car wash in cold weather?

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Posted in FAQs

As we all know, snowy and icy roads can spell trouble for your used vehicle if you aren’t careful. Besides the standard hazards of slipping and losing traction, the cosmetics of your car can also encounter some problems. Salt buildup and muddy snow can often lead you to want to give your vehicle a shower, but in the past, you’ve probably asked yourself “Is it safe to get a car wash in cold weather?” We’ve got your answer today! 

Can you wash your car when the weather is below freezing?  

Obviously, since the solution used in a typical car wash is mostly made of water, you should try to avoid getting it sprayed down when the temperature is below freezing. Otherwise, you run a higher risk of your vehicle turning into a giant icicle with wheels, which is never a fun proposition. However, since keeping your model free of rust and imperfections is crucial to ensure it lasts longer, you should still shoot to get it washed once every few weeks.  

Young man using microfiber cloth to apply wax to vehicle

Cleaned and washed vehicle parked on snowy terrain

For those of you in the Grand Junction area, you’re in luck! The weather here in January often reaches above 35 to 40 degrees, so you’ll always have ample opportunities to keep your car looking pristine no matter what the conditions have to say.  

Importance of washing your vehicle in winter 

Snow, sleet, and salt all have oxidizing properties in them that, when coming in contact with your vehicle, can cause rust to form if you don’t give it proper care. For this reason, if at all possible, you should aim to give your vehicle a nice scrub every once in a while, complete with a fresh coat of wax to help repel harmful elements that could damage your car’s makeup.  

Read More: How cold is too cold for your used vehicle?

Contact our team at Carville’s Auto Mart 

Since winter will probably be here to stay for a while, and since this part of Colorado is designed to give you all the off-road adventures you could ever ask for, contact our Carville’s Auto Mart team today to get behind the wheel of a vehicle with four-wheel drive! We’re always ready to help you find your next dream car for not only today but the future!