How to Prep Your Car for Winter the Right Way
Snow, salt, rain, and road grime. Winter is brutal on your vehicle—especially the paint, trim, and wheels.
But a little prep now can save you hours of work (and hundreds in damage) later.
This guide walks you through how to winterize your car using proven detailing techniques and the right protection products.
1. Deep Clean Before the Cold Sets In
Before freezing temps hit, give your car a thorough wash using The Super Soaper.
- ✅ Breaks down summer grime, oils, and brake dust
- ✅ Preps paint for ceramic spray bonding
2. Apply Ceramic Spray Protection
Salt and winter grime stick to unprotected paint fast. Use Tough As Shell to protect all exterior surfaces.
- ✅ Boosts hydrophobic properties (easier snow/rain cleanup)
- ✅ Shields paint from chemical damage
- ✅ Lasts 4–6 weeks per layer
Reapply once a month for ongoing winter defense.
3. Clean and Protect Trim + Tires
Plastic trim, rubber seals, and tires dry out and fade in cold temps. Use All Dressed Up to restore and protect with a non-greasy finish.
- ✅ OEM-style matte look
- ✅ Helps resist salt staining and cracking
- ✅ Use on all rubber, plastic, and exterior trim
4. Detail and Defend Your Interior
Track in snow, salt, and sludge—and you’re ruining floor mats and interiors fast.
Use Complete Cabin Cleaner with Everyday Microfiber Towels to clean plastics, seats, and more without streaking or buildup.
Then lay down rubber mats to lock in your work.
5. Protect Glass and Mirrors
Salt and ice buildup reduces visibility. Use Tough As Shell on exterior glass and mirrors for hydrophobic sheeting that helps snow and water slide off faster.
Customer Testimonial
"Last winter I didn’t prep and ended up with etched salt spots and dry trim. This year I followed Jimbo’s winter guide and used Tough As Shell—it made washing in winter 10x easier. Huge difference."
— Zach M., Verified Customer
Related Posts
Conclusion
Winter doesn’t have to wreck your car. Take 30 minutes now, and you’ll thank yourself come spring.
Get your winter prep kit now at Jimbo’s Detailing or order on Amazon for fast delivery.
