Parking in Colder Climates: How to Best Protect your Vehicle from The Elements

For most people, their car is their second most expensive purchase. It’s something you’ll consider carefully, balancing color, practicality, style, and perhaps even speed. It’s often a difficult decision, a balance of heart and brain.

Of course, the fact that car prices continue to rise makes it even harder to choose the perfect vehicle. That’s why it’s understandable that you want to do everything in your power to protect your vehicle from other car owners and the elements.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help protect your car from the elements.

Keep It Covered

Your pride and joy probably lives in a garage or a carport at home, the cover gives it protection from the sun, rain, and even the snow. You may be surprised at how much damage these elements can do.

Fortunately, with monthly parking Chicago, you can get a space in an indoor facility or even rent your own garage, allowing you to park your car while you’re at work. Equally, if you live in the city and don’t have parking, renting someone else’s space will allow you to protect your car.

The cost is reasonable and substantially cheaper than the usual car parks or the cost of repairing your vehicle.

Waxing

It’s important to note that a regular coat of wax on your vehicle is a great way to give it a protective topcoat. This stops the sun’s rays from fading the paint and can prevent wind, rain, and hail from attacking the paintwork. You’ll need to wax the car twice a year and make sure it is properly washed and dried first.

Warming The Car

When you’ve got snow and ice over your vehicle it’s tempting just to brush and scrape it off. However, this means you’ll be scratching the bodywork. The scratches are faint but they are there. You’ll want to avoid this by using soft gloves to remove the bulk of the snow and by letting the engine warm-up, allowing it to defrost the windows.

The added bonus is you’ll get into a warm vehicle on a cold day!

Be Careful With Salt

Salt is one of the biggest car killers. It reacts with the paint and causes spots, it can also attack the chassis and cause corrosion. Neither of which is good for the future value of your vehicle.

Unfortunately, salt is often present n the road to prevent them from freezing. You’re going to want to hose your car down regularly to remove all traces of salt. This is particularly important in the winter months. Try to do it at least once a week.

Consider Your Parking

If you don’t choose to rent a parking space you’ll have to park your car in a public car park and you’ll risk others opening their door on you. Although there are times you can park far away from everyone, this isn’t always an option. That’s why renting a parking space may be the best option for your car and your peace of mind.