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Feb 27, 2020
rain proof your car

This spring season can mean lots of rainy weather. Water can wreak havoc on your vehicle if it gets in the wrong places, impacting your vehicle’s running condition. You can’t prevent your car from getting wet with rain or snow, but you can take steps to waterproof your vehicle as much as possible. We have built some tips and tricks you can use to waterproof your car, ultimately helping it last longer. 

 

Continue reading to check out how to waterproof your car. 

 

Protect Your Exterior Paint

It sounds silly, but rain doesn’t exactly get along with your car’s exterior paint. Even though the exterior paint is protected against water and contaminants with a coat of clear paint, it will erode over time. To make it longer, it’s important to treat it. After being out in rain, give your car a wash with a hose and then wax it. Wax is a great way to maintain the integrity of your paint job intact. You can also add a paint protection film, which can be installed when your car is new. This will provide the ultimate protection to your original factory paint, helping to protect it from scratches as well. Plus, it can be easily removed if needed. 

rainproof car wax

Image from Turtle Wax

Make Sure Your Car is Properly Sealed

That little rubber strip between your car and the outside helps maintain the elements out. Make sure these strips aren’t damaged. Another way to waterproof your car is to apply a sealant. Your car’s exterior can quickly degrade if you go too long between washes because rain and salt can corrode it. The best way to prevent this is to apply a sealant after the wash. This can be anything from wax or car polish. 

Because of the synthetic materials in sealants, it can protect your car from water damage. It is rubbed onto the clean paint, then buffed with a microfiber cloth. This protective coat can last up to six months, making it a great way to protect your car. 

 

This next point is not only necessary for rain, but for safety as well. 

 

Check Your Wiper Blades

As we’ve said many times before, windshield wipers are imperative for your driving safety, especially in the spring when the weather turns rainy. To make sure you can continually use your wipers as soon as it starts raining, ensure that they have the right level of fluid and that the blades aren’t worn out. Visibility in rain is imperative, so make sure to check these before the rainy season starts. 

 

Keep You Car Sheltered When Possible

Garages and carports are made to protect your car from the elements. If possible, make sure you shelter your vehicle when you can, since water can seep in between your bodywork and other components. Water can easily make its way into areas where it takes longer to evaporate, which in turn accelerates the rate of corrosion. By keeping your car sheltered, you can minimize the rare in which corrosion happens. 

If you don’t have a garage, think of a portable garage to shelter your car. They are sometimes more effective in sheltering cars because they allow for airflow under the cover. This means that your car dries out faster, minimizing corrosion. Another option is using a protective cover when your car is parked outside. These waterproof covers protect your car when they are parked outside, especially for long periods of time. They can provide on-the-go protection when you need it the most.

rainproof car in garage

Image from New York Times

 

You wouldn’t think this next point is important, but it is. Keep reading to find out why. 

 

Clean the Underside of Your Vehicle

Regularly washing underneath your vehicle is as important as the exterior. This practice will protect your car from corrosion caused by water or even snow. Water can be particularly damaging to your undercarriage, so checking the underneath is an important part of waterproofing your car. Try to go to your local car wash at least once a month or do it yourself if you want to save. Just make sure you really get in all the spots where water may corrode your vehicle. Make sure to wash inside the wheels as well, as it will help blast away salt and mineral deposits before they cause rust and corrosion.  

 

Use a Rain Repellent

A what? Yes, there are many products that help keep rainwater off your windshield or take it away quickly without obstructing your vision. These products can also help your defroster by reducing condensation and helping your windshield wiper do its job. Rain repellent is available in liquid form and can be a lifesaver during the rainy season. Be sure to follow all manufacturer recommendations before using it and make sure the repellent is of high quality. 

Although it is easy to apply, you should always know how to apply it properly. Before using, make sure

  • Your windshield is clean. Use an ammonia-based glass cleaner to make sure its spotless
  • Make sure the cleaner is wiper away and evaporated before applying the repellent. Use a microfiber cloth to help with this. 
  • Apply as directed. Instructions usually ask to use circular motions or vertical and/or horizontal movements to have even coverage. 
  • Allow to dry according to manufacturer recommendations. 
  • Buff with a microfiber towel. 
  • After letting sit for several hours, rinse your windshield with water and dry with a microfiber towel. 
car rain repellant

Image from Ebay

With the spring season approaching and rainy weather on the horizon, these tips and tricks to help protect your car from the rain can come in handy. With these easy to do tips, you are on track to waterproofing your car and give it a longer lifespan, since they will help slow down the corrosion effects of water. It’s looking good for your car this spring!

 

 

Sources

 

https://mdmshelters.com/tips-and-tricks-to-waterproof-your-car/

https://www.usautosales.info/blogs/1924/car-care/rain-proof-ride/