7 Ways to Keep Your Car Clean and Protected without a Garage

Keeping your car clean and protected without a garage can be a challenge as it is exposed to weather elements and unknown dangers. Protecting your car’s exterior ensures it looks better longer and retains its resale value. Here are seven ways to keep your car clean and protected without a garage.

1. Car Cover

Getting a car cover is the most straightforward way to keep your car clean and protected without a garage. A car cover will keep your car looking newer and slow down the effects of the elements such as rain. It can also protect the car’s finish from ultraviolet rays, which can cause it to fade and damage the interior.

Car covers protect your car from scratches, dents, bird droppings, pollen, and insects. This will save you money for paint-touch-ups and polishes required to keep your car looking clean. Car covers can also deter thieves as they hide any valuables inside the car, and they require a lot of time to take off.

There are various options to choose from when it comes to car covers. You can use a universal cover that can cover any type of car or get a custom cover for your car’s specific model and make. There are also specialized car overs that provide advanced protection to your vehicle from the elements and against corrosion.

2. Seal Paint with Wax and Coating

Regular waxing can help protect your car’s exterior from the elements and pollutants. You can also use a ceramic coating kit to protect your car’s paint layer from mechanical erosion and oxidation. Car waxes have a natural finish and contain natural ingredients that make your car glow. They usually last between six to eight weeks under normal conditions.

3. Wash Your Car Regularly

Washing your car regularly helps remove sand, dirt, pollen, or salt that collects on the surface and causes scratches and dullness. Salt can corrode your car’s paint or cause irreversible damage since it’s very corrosive. A regular car wash can improve the car’s condition by preventing deterioration of the paint and ensuring it lasts longer.

If you don’t have a garage, you can wash your car weekly or twice a week, depending on how frequently you use it. You can either wash the car yourself or take it to a car wash. Brushes and brushless washes can damage the car’s paint so opt for car washes that use cloths instead.

If you wash the car yourself, use car-wash soap. Additionally, use mild cleaning agents and microfiber cloths or sponges as they don’t hold debris that may scratch the finish. If you are using a pressure washer, keep a safe distance to avoid damaging the paint.

4. Park Safely

It is crucial you avoid parking under dangerous hazards that can damage your car. Parking under trees with falling branches, fruits, leaves, sticks, and seeds can dent or corrode your car. Animals and kids can also dent your vehicle, making it necessary to have repairs. You can park in a clear space with low street and foot traffic.

5. Avoid Saltwater Spray

Saltwater is corrosive and can damage your paint, especially if your car already has scratches. Avoid parking your vehicle near saltwater bodies where the mist can get on your car’s surface. If your car is exposed to saltwater, you should wash it as soon as possible, especially the undercarriage.

6. Quickly Fix Body Damage

Dents and scratches on your car’s exterior need to be fixed fast to avoid creating more issues. Problems that may arise from not fixing your car in time include paint damage, rust, and damage to the underlying structure. It also decreases your car’s resale value and costs you more to fix the damages. It would be best to plan ahead and create an emergency fund to help cover unexpected auto repairs. Be sure to visit your auto body shop as soon as you notice any damage.

7. Avoid Air Drying Your Car

Air drying your car can leave water droplets on the exterior containing natural minerals. The minerals can be etched into the car’s surface, leaving behind streaks, spots, and deposits that can harm the paint job. You can use microfiber cloths or a sponge to clean and dry your car.

Closing Thoughts

Keeping your car clean and protected ensures it remains in good condition for a long time and retains its resale value. The above tips can help you save money on repairs and maintain your car’s beauty and structural integrity.