Getting your car ready for spring after a Quebec winter

After months of salt, calcium and grit, a car carries traces of winter long after the snow melts. Spring is the right time to remove everything before that residue keeps damaging the paint, underbody and cabin.

1. A complete exterior wash

Start with a hand wash and a thorough rinse of the underbody, wheel wells and rocker panels, where salt builds up. An exterior wash takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, from $100 before taxes.

2. Paint decontamination

After winter, paint often feels rough: iron fallout, tar and embedded residue. Decontamination removes them and prepares the surface for protection. Price and time depend on the vehicle's condition and are confirmed after evaluation.

3. The interior: white stains

White marks on the mats are salt and calcium crystals. A vacuum alone won't remove them: they must be dissolved and extracted. Interior cleaning starts at $100; the interior-exterior package starts at $200 and takes about 1 to 2 hours.

4. Correct and protect, if needed

If the paint looks dull or has micro-scratches, polishing (from $495) can restore its shine. A ceramic coating can then be applied: 1 year from $295, 3 years from $895 or 5 years from $1,095, before taxes. Liquid PPF on exposed areas is available on evaluation.

The right order

• Exterior wash and underbody
• Decontamination
• Polishing if needed
• Protection (ceramic, liquid PPF)
• Interior cleaning

To sum up

A good spring clean removes winter from your car and gets it ready for the warm season. Book at Chic Lave-Auto Écologique, in the underground parking at Le Square, Quartier DIX30 in Brossard, Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.