Before cleaning your car, check the recommendations made in your owner's manual and on the labels of any products you use.

Preparing your car for winter, especially in regions that are extra harsh, will help prevent rusting and other cold-weather problems.

• Wax your car sometime in autumn before the weather drops below 32 degrees. Avoid waxing your car with a carnauba-only wax during winter, as it is more difficult to buff off as temperatures drop. Gel waxes that don't require buffing work well in cold weather.
• The sides of your car need the most attention, as they take a beating from road grime, sand, and salt.
• If you have a leather interior, you should treat it with a conditioner, as the dry winter atmosphere could harm it.
• Dress the tires with a good, long-lasting protectant.
• Don't forget to also treat the trim with a protectant.