As it falls, rain collects all sorts of contaminants and pollutants in the air. These then end up on your car, specifically your car paint, when you’re out driving in the rain or leave your car unprotected outside. No, indeed—driving in the rain is not a cheap way to give your car a wash.

But how to prevent the damage that rainwater can cause? By being vigilant, by acting quickly, and by being consistent in everything involved in the care of your vehicle.

Those can be translated in these 5 ways:

1. Wax your car.

If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain, you might need to be extra watchful and stay several steps ahead of the weather. One way to do that is by waxing your car. Automotive wax, or car wax, is designed to give your car a layer of protection that helps keep the paint job looking sharp and shiny. Generally, you should wax your car every 8 to 12 weeks, or as soon as you notice a lack of water beading, which is a sign that the wax is wearing thin.

2. Wash rainwater off your car as soon as you can.

Ideally, you should clean your car the soonest you can after it has been exposed to rainwater. Otherwise, when you let rainwater stay on and dry on your car, you will then have a tougher time cleaning it, and those pollutants will have already started to do damage to your paint job.

3. Wash your car regularly.

Regular washing reinforces the damage control done when you act immediately and wash your car after it has had contact with rainwater. This should be one of your strictest routines since regular washing is arguably the best way to protect your car’s paint job since it removes dust and other airborne pollutants, as well as dirt and grime from being out every day on the road. Opt for a high-quality automotive soap and apply it using a foam sponge in straight lines rather than circular motions. Be sure to rinse with clean water. Lastly, don’t forget to properly dry your car—which means do not let it air-dry. Air-drying leaves behind the minerals from the water after it has evaporated, and these can damage your car’s paint. Dry your car with a microfiber towel. Bathroom towels, paper towels, and rags can leave behind tiny scratches that over time cause paint to erode

4. Invest in a car cover.

Again, if you live somewhere with lots of rain, how about buying a car cover? It’s waterproof and will protect your vehicle in harsh weather. You can also throw in a car scratch repair kit for some DIY work should your car get scraped or scratched when you find yourself driving in a rainstorm.

5. Protect your windows with rain guards and window visors.

These will effectively keep rain, wind, snow, sleet, or hail away from your car windows. Visors fit on the top of your windowsills and jut out—allowing you to open your windows for ventilation without water and other harmful elements getting in to leave your interior damp and cause mildew growth.

Additionally, visors prevent your windows from misting up as well as eliminates air flow into your car and reduces air drag. This results in reduced fuel consumption, and therefore more savings.

Protecting your car against the weather is one way to keep it looking sharp and new keep your repair expenses down. More importantly, it helps add years to car’s life and keep your car ownership experience a positive one.

Be sure to stick to your vehicle checkup and maintenance schedule as prescribed in your owner’s manual and in keeping with your manufacturer’s warranty.

If your manufacturer’s warranty is expiring soon and you’re shopping for post-warranty coverage, EverCare offers vehicle service contract plans for various ranges of budget. Visit our website and explore your options.