Your vehicle needs extra tender loving care come winter. Cold temperatures, excess moisture and poor road conditions all take their toll, with the risk of engine faults and failures, exterior damage and tyre wear heightened during the cooler seasons. That’s where a well-timed winter car treatment can work wonders. Here are the winter car treatments that should be on your radar this season…

Wax on, wax off

Let’s start with a car treatment that is particularly popular during the winter months, especially for prestige and classic vehicles. Applying a protective coating of wax or sealant to your vehicle’s paintwork can offer fantastic results. It puts a barrier between your car’s surface and the outside world, with highly corrosive salt, brine and de-icing chemicals kept at arm’s length to prevent rust and paint damage.

The wax effectively acts as a shield, warding off the tiniest particles kicked up from wet, gritty winter roads to keep the most delicate, original paintwork in the very best condition.

A winter rub down

Before you get waxing, there’s another basic that needs to be covered. Your car must be washed thoroughly before any wax treatment can be applied to remove the dirt and salt build up that’s already present on its surface.

When washing, don’t forget to work on your vehicle’s undercarriage. It’s a prime spot for rust and contaminants.

The wash before the wash

Many car owners indulge in an anti-rust pre-wash to give their vehicles a real winter treat. Known as snow foam - which is particularly fitting considering the season! - this pre-wash cleaning technique uses foam detergent to remove dirt, dust and grime deep down. It also softens and lifts contaminants for easy, streak-free rinsing and longer term protection.

All the trimmings

When treating your vehicle, it’s all about the finer details. Paying attention to plastic trims and rubber seals will ensure they don’t fall victim to harsher winter weather conditions. By dressing seals and trims, you can effectively prevent freezing, cracking and sticking.

Rubber seal and trim protection can also offer an instantly upgraded look as well as provide vital protection all year round, including during the summer months.

Let it shine

Glass care is another important piece of the winter car treatment puzzle. Polish to perfection before sealing with a water repellent product. It’ll drastically boost your visibility, which can be in short supply in winter. Don’t forget to clean interior glass to prevent fogging and enhance safety further.