Maintenance
Spring Detailing Checklist: Post-Winter Car Refresh Guide
Blackout Window Tinting
5 min read
Spring is the perfect time to detail your car after winter. This checklist covers everything from salt removal to coating restoration for the new season.
Spring Detailing Checklist
The Bay Area's mild winters still leave their mark. Spring is the time to address accumulated grime and prepare for summer. Here's your complete checklist.
Exterior Decontamination
Remove winter buildup:
- Thorough hand wash (two bucket method)
- Wheel well and undercarriage rinse
- Clay bar treatment for bonded contaminants
- Tar and sap spot removal
- Iron fallout remover on wheels
Paint Assessment
Check for damage:
- New rock chips from winter debris
- Any chips penetrating to metal (rust risk)
- Swirl marks from winter washing
- Water spot etching
Address issues:
- Touch up chips before rust forms
- Schedule paint correction if needed
- Apply rust inhibitor to any exposed metal
Coating Revival
Refresh protection:
- Test water beading behavior
- Apply SiO2 booster spray or topper
- Coat glass surfaces
- Dress trim and plastics with UV protection
If coating is failing:
- Consider full recoat
- At minimum, apply quality sealant
Interior Deep Clean
Remove winter accumulation:
- Vacuum all surfaces thoroughly
- Extract floor mats (salt and debris)
- Wipe all hard surfaces
- Clean glass inside and out
- Air freshening (neutralize stale air)
- Condition leather (if applicable)
Glass Clarity
Restore visibility:
- Clean all exterior glass
- Interior glass wipe (film removal)
- Apply hydrophobic coating
- Inspect wiper blades
Mechanical Quick-Check
While you're at it:
- Check tire pressure (adjusts with temp)
- Inspect tire tread depth
- Top off washer fluid
- Check all lights function
- Look for fluid leaks
Protection Layer Inspection
Assess current protection:
| Component | Check For |
|---|---|
| Ceramic coating | Water beading, slickness |
| PPF | Lifting edges, yellowing |
| Window tint | Bubbling, fading |
Spring Detail Package Elements
Our spring refresh includes:
- Full exterior wash and clay
- Coating boost application
- Interior vacuum and wipe
- Glass cleaning all surfaces
- Tire dressing
- Air vent cleaning
Starting at $200 for sedans
Timing Is Right
Spring is ideal for detail work:
- Weather is mild (good for coating)
- Before heavy pollen season
- Long drying conditions
- Prep for summer driving
📞 Ready for spring? Book spring detail
