A Fresh Year Starts With a Clean Car
The start of the year is a great excuse to clean out the old and make space for what’s ahead. And if you’re anything like us, your car probably collected its fair share of coffee cups, crumbs, road salt, and winter gear over the past year. A little effort now can make every drive in 2026 feel brand new, even if your ride isn’t. And if things go wrong on the road, our Wheaton roadside assistance team is just a call away.
We’ve pulled together some simple, satisfying ways to clean your car and care for it, inside and out. It won’t turn back the odometer, but it’ll make the miles feel a whole lot better.
The Magic Is in the Details
Start with the interior. Pull out anything that doesn’t belong, vacuum the seats and floor mats, and wipe down every surface. Don’t forget the areas that always get skipped, like the space between the seats or under them. A can of compressed air works wonders on dusty vents and cup holders.
Then, tackle the windows. Smudged glass can be distracting on the road, especially when the winter sun hits at the wrong angle. Use a dedicated glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to leave them streak-free. Bonus points for cleaning both sides of the glass, not just the inside.
Don’t Ignore the Trunk
If you’re carrying around forgotten gym bags or a snow shovel from last March, now’s the time to lighten the load. A clean, empty trunk can improve fuel economy and leave room for things you actually need.
Vacuum First, Wipe Later
Vacuuming before wiping keeps dust and dirt from turning into grime. Start from the top and work your way down: dash, console, seats, and floors.
Freshen the Air
Swap out the cabin air filter if it’s been a while. These filters pick up all the invisible stuff, and changing them can clear up musty odors. Add a subtle air freshener if you like, but steer clear of overpowering scents.
Go Deep on the Exterior
Washing your car in January might sound like a recipe for frostbite, but keeping the exterior clean is one of the best ways to fight rust. Road salt is brutal on paint and undercarriages. Use a high-pressure rinse to blast away salt, especially around wheel wells and door edges.
Follow that with a wash and wax if the weather allows. A protective coat of wax can help keep grime from sticking in the weeks ahead.
Keep a Small Care Kit in the Car
You don’t need a full detailing shop in your trunk. But a basic care kit—glass wipes, microfiber cloths, a multi-surface cleaner, and a tire gauge—can help you handle messes before they set in.
Tips That Stick Beyond January
Once your ride is fresh, it’s easier to keep it that way. Here are a few habits that make a difference:
- Shake out your floor mats weekly to control dirt and salt.
- Keep a small trash bag in the car and empty it often.
- Wipe down surfaces during fuel stops.
- Make a monthly date to check fluids, tire pressure, and lights.
Cleaning is one part of the puzzle. Ongoing care keeps things running smoother and looking sharper through the year.
O’Hare Towing Keeps You Moving: Wheaton Roadside Assistance and More
At O’Hare Towing, we help keep your car on track with reliable Wheaton roadside assistance that’s quick and responsive. A good cleaning and checkup might prevent most problems, but when things go wrong, we’re here to help. Our Wheaton roadside assistance team handles everything from flats to dead batteries.
We assist drivers with:
- Lockout services
- Emergency towing
- Battery jumps
- Flat tire help
- Local and long-distance towing
We’ve built our Wheaton roadside assistance services around fast response times and experienced technicians who know how to get you moving again. Whether you’re parked at home or stranded at a stoplight, we’re ready.
If your car gives you trouble this winter, let the O’Hare Wheaton roadside assistance experts take the stress out of the situation. Found something during your cleanout that doesn’t sound or smell right? Give us a call. We’ll help sort it out before it becomes a bigger issue.
Start your year clean, clear, and prepared! With help from our Wheaton roadside assistance team when you need it most.
FAQ
How often should I clean my car in winter?
Aim to wash your car every two weeks during winter, especially after snow or road salt exposure. Regular cleaning helps protect the paint and undercarriage.
What is the best way to stop my car from smelling musty?
Replace the cabin air filter and clean the vents. Use a mild deodorizer and avoid overpowering scents. Keep the interior dry to prevent mold and mildew.
Why do my windows fog up so easily in cold weather?
Foggy windows are caused by moisture inside the car. Use your defroster with the air conditioner on to remove humidity. Keeping your car clean and dry can help reduce this issue.
What should I keep in a small car care kit?
A good kit includes glass wipes, microfiber cloths, a multi-surface cleaner, tire gauge, and disposable gloves. Add a trash bag and hand sanitizer for extra convenience.
Can cleaning my car improve fuel efficiency?
Yes, clearing out heavy items from your trunk can improve fuel economy slightly. A clean exterior also reduces drag, which helps at higher speeds.
Is it safe to wax my car in cold weather?
It’s safe if temperatures are above freezing and the surface is dry. Choose a quick-application wax made for colder conditions to make the job easier.