Maine winters are beautiful and brutal in equal measure. While salt keeps the roads passable, it wages a silent war on your Volvo vehicle’s undercarriage and paint. Winter Volvo maintenance doesn’t require complicated rituals or expensive treatments—it just takes consistency and attention to detail. Keep your vehicle healthy with these tips from Goodwin’s Volvo.
Wash Your Vehicle Regularly
Frequent washing is your first line of defense during winter, with experts recommending a wash every 10 to 14 days when there’s salt on the road. Salt damage is cumulative, meaning every day it sits on your car, it’s doing more harm. If you drive on salted roads daily or notice visible salt buildup, aim for a wash more frequently—around every 7 to 10 days.
Focus on the Undercarriage
Your undercarriage takes the heaviest beating from salt exposure. The undercarriage should be cleaned once every 10 days during winter to prevent buildup and corrosion on vital components like the exhaust, brake system, and fuel lines. Most car washes offer an undercarriage spray for a few extra dollars.
Apply Wax Before Winter Arrives
Waxing your car before winter acts as a protective barrier against salt and grime, helping repel moisture and keeping your paint looking sharp. Apply it in fall before the first snowfall hits Maine for an extra line of defense.
Inspect and Repair Paint Damage
Small chips and scratches are invitations for salt to reach bare metal on your Volvo vehicle. Before winter sets in, inspect your exterior and touch up any damaged spots to prevent rust from taking root.
Keep Your Vehicle Protected with Volvo Maintenance
With the right prep and some Volvo maintenance, you can enjoy stress-free driving this winter. Stop by Goodwin’s Volvo in Topsham, ME, to keep your car running strong through every Maine winter.
