can you go through car wash in winter

[MacEmerson]

Yes, you can go through a car wash in winter, but it requires specific precautions to avoid damaging your vehicle. The primary risk is having your doors or locks freeze shut if water is not properly dried. The safest method is using a touchless car wash that applies a dedicated underbody spray to blast away corrosive road salt, followed by an air-dry cycle. Always go on a relatively warm day (above freezing, ideally above 40°F) to prevent immediate ice formation.

Preparing your car is crucial. Ensure all windows are fully rolled up and doors are completely closed. If your vehicle has a rear wiper, check if it has a "service mode" (often activated through your infotainment screen) to lift it away from the glass, preventing it from freezing to the window. After the wash, immediately dry the rubber seals around the doors and trunk with a microfiber towel to prevent them from sealing shut. Drive for a few minutes with the heat on to evaporate any remaining moisture from door handles and locks.

Avoiding brush-based "friction" car washes in winter is wise. The bristles can grind trapped dirt and salt into your paint, acting like sandpaper. The underbody wash is the most critical step, as salt accelerates rust formation on your car's frame and exhaust system. While a professional detail is best, a well-executed touchless wash is a safe and effective winter maintenance strategy.

Winter Car Wash Consideration	Recommended Action/Specification	Rationale
Minimum Temperature	Above 32°F (0°C), ideally above 40°F (4°C)	Prevents water from freezing on contact with the car's surface.
Wash Type	Touchless with Underbody Spray	Removes corrosive salt without scratching paint with abrasive grit.
Key Pre-Wash Check	Activate rear wiper "service mode"	Prevents wiper blade from freezing to the rear windshield.
Critical Post-Wash Step	Manually dry door and trunk seals	Avoids doors being frozen shut when you next need to open them.
Drive After Wash	10-15 minutes with heater on	Evaporates residual moisture from locks and mechanisms.
Frequency in Snow States	Every 10-14 days or after major snow/salt event	Regular salt removal is key to preventing long-term rust damage.

[DiArianna]

Absolutely, but timing is everything. I never go when it's below freezing. I head to a touchless place right after a warm-up on a sunny afternoon. The underbody wash is a must to get rid of all that salt. My trick is to keep an old towel in the car to wipe down the door rubber seals right after the cycle finishes. Then I drive home with the heat on full blast to make sure everything is dry. It’s a quick routine that saves me from frozen door headaches.