The Complete Winter Car Detailing Checklist
Winter is brutal on your vehicle. Between the road salt, freezing temps, and constant grime, your car’s paint and trim need real protection. Here’s everything you need to keep it clean and shielded all season long.
✅ Step 1: Pre-Winter Deep Clean
- Wash: Use The Super Soaper in a foam cannon or pump sprayer to lift grime.
- Clay if needed: Use a clay mitt to remove bonded contaminants before protection.
✅ Step 2: Apply Ceramic Protection
Tough As Shell offers durable ceramic protection from snow, salt, and slush with easy spray-on application.
Get Tough As Shell
Also available on Amazon
✅ Step 3: Condition Trim and Tires
Use All Dressed Up on plastic trim, rubber seals, and tires. It’s water-based and won’t sling or freeze, even in sub-zero temps.
✅ Step 4: Protect Your Interior
Snow, mud, and salt get dragged into the cabin constantly. Clean with Complete Cabin Cleaner for a matte, OEM look that’s safe on all surfaces.
✅ Step 5: Equip for Winter Maintenance
- Orange Wash Microfiber Towels – Soft and safe for winter washes
- Massive Drying Towel – Ideal for drying without freeze-up
✅ Step 6: Post-Snowstorm Maintenance
- Wash after every storm: Follow this guide: How to Wash a Car After a Snowstorm
- Remove road salt: See this post: How to Remove Road Salt
Bonus: Related Winter Detailing Posts
- How to Protect Car Paint in Winter
- Best Tire Dressings for Cold Weather
- Should You Use Ceramic Spray in Freezing Temps?
- How to Wash a Car in Cold Weather
- Winterizing Car Detailing Essentials
Protect Your Car the Right Way This Winter
Winter doesn’t have to destroy your paint or wreck your interior. With the right tools and protection, your car can make it through salt season looking better than ever. Use the checklist above and the related guides to keep your car clean, protected, and ready to go no matter how harsh the weather gets.
