Keeping your car clean is more than just about looks. Regular washing helps maintain the value of your vehicle and protects it from wear and tear caused by dirt, debris, and rough weather conditions. But how often should you visit a car wash in Calgary? Well, the answer depends on a number of things, like the weather, how often you drive, and where you park. At New Brighton Car Wash, we want to help you keep your car looking great and running well. Let’s go over the details!
Car Wash in Calgary and the Rough Weather Challenges
Calgary experiences all kinds of weather, from snow and ice in the winter to dust and pollen in the summer. These changing conditions can take a toll on your vehicle, making regular car washes necessary.
- Winter Months: Road salt and slush can build up on your car’s exterior, leading to rust and corrosion. So, in winter, we suggest washing your car at least once a week to get rid of road salt and slush, which can harm your car.
- Spring and Summer: Pollen, bird droppings, and dust can accumulate on your car, affecting its paint job. That’s why a wash every two weeks should keep your car looking fresh.
- Fall Season: Leaves and dirt can collect in crevices, leading to stains and damage. To prevent buildup, washing your car every couple of weeks is a great idea.
How Often Do You Drive?
Your driving habits also play a big role in determining how often you should visit us for a wash.
- Daily Commuters: If you drive to work every day, your car is exposed to pollution, dust, and road grime. That means washing it once a week will help keep it clean and well-maintained.
- Weekend Drivers: If you only drive occasionally, you might not need to wash your car as often. In this case, a biweekly or monthly wash should be enough.
- Off-Road or Highway Driving: If you frequently drive on highways or rough roads, your car collects more dirt and debris. So, visiting a car wash weekly is a good idea.
Where Do You Park Your Car?
Where you park your car can have a surprising impact on how often it needs to be washed.
- Outdoor Parking: If your car is parked outside, it’s more exposed to weather, bird droppings, tree sap, and dust. Because of this, a weekly wash will help prevent buildup.
- Garage Parking: If you park indoors, your car stays cleaner for longer. So, a wash every two to three weeks should be enough to keep it looking good.
The Benefits of Regular Car Washes
Keeping your car clean is not just about appearances—it has real benefits that can save you money in the long run.
- Protects Your Paint: Dirt and grime can cause scratches and dull your car’s paint over time. That’s why regular washes help maintain that fresh look.
- Prevents Rust and Corrosion: Salt and water can slowly damage your car’s metal parts, causing rust. Washing your car helps remove these harmful things before they cause serious problems.
- Improves Visibility: Mirrors and a clean windshield improve safety on the road, reducing glare and keeping your vision clear.
- Enhances Resale Value: A well-maintained car looks newer and is worth more when you decide to sell or trade it in.
Signs It’s Time for a Car Wash in Calgary
Sometimes, you don’t realize how dirty your car is until it’s covered in dirt. A little dirt may not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can harm the paint, make it harder to see, and even make your car appear older. So, how do you know when it’s time to wash? Here are some obvious signs to look out for:
The Paint Looks Dull or Faded
A car’s paint should look bright and shiny. When it starts to look dusty, dull, or faded, a layer of dirt is covering it. Leaving dirt on for too long can make the paint wear out faster. A good wash removes the dirt and brings back the car’s fresh, polished look. Adding a wax treatment after washing helps protect the paint and keeps the car looking new for longer.
Sticky Spots or Stubborn Stains
Sometimes, things like bird droppings, tree sap, or road tar stick to the car. These stains don’t just look bad, they can also harm the paint if not cleaned quickly. Bird dropping has acid that can damage the surface, and tree sap gets harder over time, making it tough to remove. Washing the car often helps stop these stains from leaving marks.
Headlights Look Foggy or Dim
Headlights should always be clear and bright for safe driving. Over time, dust and grime build up, making them look cloudy or yellowish. This can make it harder to see at night or in bad weather. A good wash removes the dirt and makes the headlights shine again. For headlights that still look foggy after washing, polishing can help restore their brightness.
Bad Smell Inside the Car
Dirt and spills inside the car can cause bad odors over time. Food crumbs, coffee spills, or wet carpets can result in a musty smell if not cleaned properly. A full car wash, including interior cleaning, helps remove stains and freshens up the inside of the car. Adding an air freshener after cleaning keeps the car smelling nice for longer.
Your Car Deserves the Best!
In conclusion, how often you should visit a car wash in Calgary depends on the weather, how much you drive, and where you park. But as a general rule, washing your car once a week or every two weeks is a good idea to keep it looking great.
Regular car washes protect your vehicle from damage, keep it looking great, and even improve safety. So, the next time your car needs a good clean, come see us! We’d love to help you keep your ride in top shape.
Visit New Brighton Car Wash today and give your car the care it deserves!