How to maintain your car’s weatherstrip

The rubber seals, or weatherstrips, around the edges of your car doors prevent rain, wind, and moisture from seeping through the gaps into the cabin. Here are a few tips for keeping yours in good shape.

1. Wash the weatherstrip. Keep the weatherstrip clean by washing it regularly with car-safe soap and warm water. Dip a rag or sponge in the bucket and scrub the dirt off the lining. Do this whenever you wash the outside of your car.

2. Repair or replace the weatherstrip. When cleaning the weatherstrip, inspect it to ensure it isn’t coming loose anywhere. If it is, reattach it with a tube of weather¬strip adhesive. If it’s frayed or torn in several spots, replace it.

3. Apply a protectant. Applying a silicone protectant to prevent the rubber weatherstrip from drying and cracking. This’ll protect the rubber from excessive heat, preserving its sponginess and lubricating it. The protectant also prevents the strip from freezing in the winter.

Performing these tasks regularly keeps the weatherstrip from damage and helps you avoid replacement. Ask your mechanic to inspect your weatherstrip when you bring your car in for your next maintenance appointment.