Spring preparation: How to get your car ready for the heat

As winter releases its cold grip and spring begins to make its appearance, it's time to give your car a thorough clean. After months of frost, salt and dirt, your car needs care to look good and perform optimally. Here's a guide on how to get your car ready for spring with the right products and methods.

Why is it important to keep your car clean after winter?

Winter is a tough time for both car and driver. Snow, ice and salted roads make it necessary to take extra precautions to protect your vehicle. When winter is over, however, it is just as important to give your car a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. Salt, dirt and chemicals from the roads can cause serious damage to your car's body, undercarriage and interior if they are not removed in time. In this article, we will go over why it is important to keep your car clean after winter and how best to do it.

Road salt – a hidden enemy

During the winter months, large amounts of road salt are spread to prevent ice formation and make roads safer to drive on. Although this is good for road safety, it is a major strain on the car's bodywork and mechanical parts. Salt is highly corrosive and can cause rust on metal surfaces, especially if it is not washed away quickly and thoroughly.

The undercarriage and wheel arches are particularly vulnerable as they are constantly in contact with road grime. If salt is allowed to accumulate here, it can lead to faster rust formation and, in the worst case, result in mechanical failures requiring expensive repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to have these residues removed as soon as possible after the winter.

How to clean your car effectively after winter

To ensure your car comes out of winter in good condition, you should follow a thorough cleaning routine:

1. Thorough exterior wash and paint protection

Start with a thorough car wash. It is recommended to use a high-pressure cleaner to get into all the nooks and crannies, especially around the wheel arches and undercarriage. Use a pH-neutral car shampoo to protect the paintwork and ensure you don't remove any protective wax layers.

When washing your car, pay special attention to the following areas:

Underbody: Use an underbody cleaner or a high-pressure cleaner to rinse away salt and dirt.

Wheel arches and rims: Salt and dirt often collect here, which can damage both paint and metal components.

Door rebates and panel edges: These places are often overlooked, but they are also susceptible to rust attacks.

Winter salt and dirt can damage your car's paintwork and lead to rust. Start with a gentle pre-wash with a good foam lance for Kärcher or Nilfisk and a pH-neutral car shampoo . Then use a soft wash mitt to avoid scratches. Finish with a paint sealer or wax to protect the surface from the sun's strong UV rays and dirt.

See our complete laundry package here.

Rim cleaning and tire care

Brake dust, road grime and salt stick to tire rims. Use an effective rim cleaner to remove dirt and finish with a tire cleaner or tire shine to keep your tires looking new and well-maintained.
We recommend an Applicator for the tires

Polishing and waxing

After a thorough wash, it may be a good idea to polish your car. This will help remove small scratches and give the paint a nice shine. You can then apply a coat of wax to provide a protective barrier against dirt and moisture for the months to come.

2. Cleaning the car interior

The interior of your car can also suffer during the winter. Dirt, moisture and salt from footwear can settle in the mats and carpets, which can lead to bad smells and mold growth. To freshen up the interior you should:

Vacuum the entire cabin , including seats, mats and trunk.

Clean mats thoroughly , preferably with a steam cleaner or carpet cleaner.

Wipe down the dashboard and other surfaces with an appropriate cleaning agent.

Change or clean the cabin filter to improve the air quality inside the car.

Spring often means more sunlight, which exposes dust and dirt in the cabin. Vacuum the car thoroughly and use an interior cleaner for the seats, door panels and dashboard. A good fabric cleaner and protector or leather care will keep the interior nice and smelling good.
If you have leather seats, we recommend a Leather Conditioner for extra protection against the sun's UV radiation.

3. Window cleaner for better visibility

Dirty windows can reduce visibility and make driving unpleasant. Use a quality window cleaner to remove dirt, grease and winter grime from the outside and a glass cleaner for the inside . Also remember to replace your wiper blades if they are worn.

4. Checking fluids and filters

Check and top up your oil, coolant and brake fluid after the winter stress. Change the pollen filter to ensure clean air in the cabin – especially if you suffer from allergies.

5. Air conditioning service

Spring means warmer temperatures and you'll soon be using your air conditioning again. Be sure to clean or replace the cabin filter and use an air conditioning cleaner to remove bad odors and bacteria.

We recommend Bell Add Cabin and AC Cleaner .

6. Check tire pressure and change tires

If you have been driving with winter tires, it's time to switch to summer tires. Remember to check the tire pressure and tread depth to ensure safe and fuel-efficient driving.

Benefits of a clean car after winter

Keeping your car clean after winter is not just about aesthetics – it also has many practical benefits:

1. Extended lifespan

By regularly cleaning and removing salt, you can significantly extend the life of your car. Rust and corrosion can cause serious structural damage over time, leading to expensive repairs or the need to replace important components.

2. Better fuel economy

A clean car has less air resistance than a dirty car. Although the difference is not huge, a smooth paint surface free of dirt and salt buildup can result in slightly better fuel economy.

3. Increased security

A clean windshield, mirrors and lights improve visibility and make it easier to drive safely. Dirt and salt can build up on headlights and reduce their brightness, which can be dangerous in low light conditions.

4. Better resale value

If you ever want to sell your car, a well-maintained, rust-free car will have a higher resale value. Buyers will often pay more for a car that looks well-maintained and has no signs of rust or wear.

Final thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to give your car a little extra love. A thorough preparation extends the life of both paint, interior and mechanical parts, so you can enjoy a clean and well-maintained car throughout the warm months. Check out our selection of car care products and get your car spring-ready today!

When winter is over, it’s important to take the time to give your car a thorough cleaning. Salt, dirt and chemicals from the roads can cause serious damage if left to sit. By following a good cleaning routine, you can protect your car, extend its life and ensure it remains in optimal condition. A clean car is not only a beautiful car – it’s also a car that lasts longer and drives safer.

So the next time winter loosens its grip, give your car the attention it deserves. Your wallet – and your car – will thank you!

You can also see our Spring Package from autoglym here