Winter Detailing Checklist (Including Spray Coating Strategy)

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Protect your car all winter long with this full detailing checklist—plus the ceramic spray strategy we use to fight salt, grime, and snow.

 

Winter Detailing Checklist (Including Spray Coating Strategy)

Winter Detailing Checklist (Including Spray Coating Strategy)

Want to keep your car protected, clean, and easy to maintain this winter? This checklist walks you through everything—from paint prep to wheel protection to spray coating strategy that actually lasts in snow and salt.

Whether you’re a DIY weekend washer or a pro detailer, here’s the exact winter detailing plan we recommend.

✅ The Complete Winter Detailing Checklist

1. Exterior Prep (Before Temps Drop)

  • Strip wash with The Super Soaper to remove wax and contaminants
  • Clay bar or mitt if paint feels rough
  • Polish if needed—but optional in winter prep
  • Dry thoroughly with a clean microfiber drying towel

2. Apply a Ceramic Spray Coating

  • Spray onto a microfiber towel—not the panel
  • Apply evenly panel by panel
  • Let flash 15–30 seconds, then level with a second towel
  • Don’t expose to water for 12–24 hours

Recommended Product: Tough As Shell – built for cold temps, fast flashing, and long-term slickness

3. Wheels and Fender Wells

  • Use an acid-based wheel cleaner like Pure Magic Cleaner for brake dust and salt removal
  • Coat wheels with ceramic spray after cleaning
  • Spray Tough As Shell into fender wells to reduce grime buildup

4. Glass and Mirrors

  • Clean thoroughly with a streak-free glass cleaner
  • Apply ceramic spray to help repel ice and fog

5. Interior Winter Protection

  • Vacuum thoroughly (especially under seats)
  • Clean surfaces with Complete Cabin Cleaner
  • Use rubber floor mats and clean regularly
  • Apply protectant to weather stripping if needed

🧼 Ongoing Winter Maintenance

Weekly (or Biweekly)

  • Use a rinseless wash with high lubricity
  • Inspect coating behavior (add topper if needed)
  • Clean glass and headlights

Monthly

  • Reapply spray coating to high-impact areas: bumpers, rockers, hood
  • Inspect for salt buildup in seams