Owning an Infiniti QX60 from the 2016–2022 model years means enjoying a luxurious ride with impressive versatility. However, no matter how sophisticated your SUV is, weather conditions can cause significant damage over time if the vehicle isn't properly protected. Rain, snow, UV rays, dirt, and debris can all lead to wear and tear that affects both the interior and exterior of your QX60. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your Infiniti QX60 protected from weather-related damage, ensuring it stays in top condition for years to come.
Floor Mats: First Line of Defense
When it comes to protecting your vehicle’s interior, floor mats are one of the most critical accessories you can invest in. Whether you’re facing muddy boots, spilled drinks, or melted snow, high-quality mats can prevent stains and wear on your factory carpeting. For the Infiniti QX60, custom-fit mats designed specifically for the 2016–2022 models are ideal because they ensure maximum coverage and a secure fit.
All-weather floor mats are especially important if you live in an area with frequent rain or snow. They’re typically made from durable materials like rubber or thermoplastic, which resist moisture and are easy to clean. Deep channels and raised edges help trap water, mud, and debris, keeping them contained and away from your carpet.
Consider using a matching trunk mat as well, especially if you often haul groceries, sports equipment, or outdoor gear. The cargo area is just as susceptible to spills and dirt, and a waterproof mat can prevent permanent staining or mold buildup.
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Seat Covers: Shielding Against Moisture and UV
In addition to the floors, your seats can also take a beating from weather conditions. Wet clothing from rain or snow, UV exposure through the windows, and even temperature fluctuations can all cause your seats to degrade. Leather, for example, can crack and fade if left unprotected, while cloth seats can develop odors and stains.
Installing custom-fit seat covers can help prevent this kind of damage. Look for water-resistant or waterproof covers that offer protection without compromising the comfort of your QX60’s seats. Some seat covers even come with UV resistance to protect against sun damage, which is particularly important if you park your SUV outside regularly.
Not only do seat covers provide a barrier against moisture and sunlight, but they also make cleaning much easier. Instead of worrying about spills soaking into the upholstery, you can simply remove the covers and wash them when needed. For Infiniti QX60 owners who have children or pets, seat covers are practically essential.
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Protecting Your Dashboard and Interior Trim
While floor mats and seat covers are crucial for general weather protection, don’t overlook your dashboard and interior trim. Direct sunlight through the windshield can heat your dashboard to temperatures well over 100°F (38°C), leading to fading, cracking, and warping over time. Plastic trims, leather-wrapped surfaces, and other interior components can also suffer from UV damage if left unprotected.
Using a windshield sunshade whenever you park your QX60 outside can make a significant difference. Sunshades reflect sunlight and reduce interior temperatures, helping to preserve your dashboard, steering wheel, and front seats. Additionally, treating your dashboard and trim with a UV-protectant spray every few months can provide an extra layer of defense against the sun’s harsh rays.
Keeping your windows slightly cracked on extremely hot days can also help with ventilation and prevent heat buildup. However, always check your local laws about window opening restrictions before leaving your vehicle unattended.
Weatherproofing the Cargo Area
The cargo area of your Infiniti QX60 is another place where weather damage can occur. Wet items like umbrellas, snow-covered boots, and sports gear can leak water onto your carpeted trunk floor, leading to mold, mildew, and bad odors. Without proper protection, these issues can spread and affect the entire interior climate of your SUV.
As mentioned earlier, investing in a custom trunk mat or liner is highly recommended. Choose one that is waterproof and easy to remove for cleaning. Some trunk liners even feature high sidewalls, offering added protection against leaks and spills. If you frequently transport messy or wet items, consider a liner with a non-slip surface to keep your cargo in place and prevent additional damage.
Keeping Exterior Surfaces Weather-Resistant
Maintaining the exterior of your Infiniti QX60 is just as important as protecting the interior. Constant exposure to rain, snow, road salt, and harsh sunlight can wear down your paint, trim, and metal components. Without proper care, these elements can lead to fading, oxidation, corrosion, and even rust over time.
One of the best defenses against weather damage is applying a high-quality wax or paint sealant. Waxing your QX60 at least twice a year provides a protective barrier that repels water, resists dirt accumulation, and protects against UV rays. For even longer-lasting protection, consider using ceramic coatings, which can offer up to two years of durable surface shielding with proper application.
Another essential step is regular washing, especially during winter when road salt can accumulate on your vehicle. Salt is highly corrosive and can lead to serious body damage if not removed promptly. Make sure to wash the undercarriage of your vehicle as well, where salt and grime often build up unnoticed.
Finally, parking in a garage or under a carport when possible can greatly extend the life of your Infiniti’s exterior surfaces. If covered parking isn’t an option, using a high-quality weatherproof car cover can offer excellent protection against rain, snow, and UV radiation.
Rust Prevention Tips for Infiniti QX60
Rust is one of the most damaging consequences of poor weather protection, particularly for vehicles exposed to moisture, salt, and road debris. The Infiniti QX60 has good corrosion resistance, but no vehicle is immune without regular care. Taking a few proactive steps can help prevent rust from forming and spreading.
First, inspect your SUV regularly for small chips or scratches in the paint. These minor blemishes can quickly become entry points for rust if left untreated. Touch-up paint pens are an affordable and effective way to seal small areas and prevent oxidation from starting.
Second, apply an undercoating or rustproofing spray to the underside of your QX60. Professional rustproofing treatments are available at many service centers and can provide multi-year protection. If you do a lot of driving in snowy climates where roads are heavily salted, annual undercarriage inspections and touch-ups are a smart investment.
Third, always dry your vehicle thoroughly after washing it, paying particular attention to hidden areas like door sills, wheel wells, and the underside. Moisture trapped in these spots can encourage corrosion even if the rest of the car appears dry.
Winter Protection: Snow, Ice, and Road Salt
Winter poses a specific set of challenges for Infiniti QX60 owners. Snow and ice can accumulate quickly, leading to difficult driving conditions and additional wear on your vehicle. Meanwhile, road salt, while helpful for de-icing, is one of the worst culprits for corrosion and rust.
To protect your QX60 during the winter months:
- Use winter-rated floor mats: Deep grooves and high walls trap slush and melted snow before it can seep into your carpet.
- Apply a winter wax treatment: Choose a durable wax before the first snowfall to add an extra layer of defense against salt and moisture.
- Keep a snow brush and ice scraper handy: Always remove snow and ice from the roof, hood, and windows to prevent visibility hazards and ice-related scratches.
- Wash your vehicle frequently: Especially the undercarriage, to remove corrosive salt deposits.
- Use windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures: This prevents the lines and nozzles from freezing and maintains clear vision in snowy conditions.
By taking these steps, you can minimize the risks that winter poses to both the appearance and longevity of your Infiniti QX60.
Summer Protection: Heat, UV, and Dust
While winter brings cold, salt, and snow, summer introduces its own unique hazards. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade paint, crack interior materials, and overheat sensitive electronics. Dust and pollen are also more prevalent during warmer months, potentially clogging filters and creating buildup in vents and nooks.
Here’s how to protect your QX60 during hot weather:
- Use a windshield sunshade: This helps reduce interior temperatures and minimizes UV damage to your dashboard and seats.
- Apply UV protectants: Treat both interior surfaces and exterior trims to resist cracking, fading, and drying out.
- Park in the shade: Whenever possible, choose shaded areas or covered parking to avoid direct sun exposure.
- Wash frequently: Removing dust and pollen buildup helps preserve your paint and prevents fine scratches.
- Check your cabin air filter: Dust and debris can clog the system quickly during dry seasons, reducing air quality and system efficiency.
Maintaining awareness of seasonal risks allows you to adapt your protection strategies year-round, ensuring your Infiniti QX60 remains comfortable and in top shape no matter the conditions.
Useful Accessories for All-Season Protection
In addition to standard weather protection items like floor mats and seat covers, several other accessories can help Infiniti QX60 owners shield their vehicles year-round. Having the right gear on hand allows you to handle sudden weather changes without stress while preserving your SUV’s appearance and function.
Consider these useful accessories:
- All-Weather Car Covers: Designed to resist rain, snow, sun, and dust, a full vehicle cover provides top-to-bottom protection when parking outdoors. Look for breathable covers to prevent moisture buildup underneath.
- Windshield Covers: A simple but effective way to prevent frost buildup in winter and reduce interior heat in summer. They save time scraping ice and protect against UV damage.
- Weatherproof Cargo Organizers: Waterproof organizers prevent leaks from groceries, sports equipment, or wet items from damaging the trunk carpet.
- Window Deflectors: These allow you to keep windows cracked slightly open during rainstorms without letting water in, improving ventilation and reducing interior humidity.
- Mud Flaps: Installing mud flaps behind the wheels helps protect the lower body panels from road debris, mud, and salt spray, especially important in rough or wet driving conditions.
Each of these accessories adds a layer of defense, and many are quick and easy upgrades that don’t require professional installation.
How to Maintain Weatherproof Accessories
Simply installing protective accessories isn’t enough—you need to maintain them properly to ensure they continue providing maximum defense. Weatherproofing items face the same environmental challenges they’re designed to protect against, so routine care is important.
Follow these tips for accessory maintenance:
- Clean floor mats regularly: Shake out debris and wash mats with mild soap and water. Allow them to dry completely before reinstalling to prevent mildew.
- Wash seat covers: Depending on the material, machine wash or hand clean your seat covers. Always check the care instructions first to avoid damaging waterproof coatings.
- Inspect weather seals: Window deflectors, door seals, and windshield covers should be checked periodically for cracks, tears, or loose fittings. Damaged seals should be repaired or replaced immediately.
- Maintain car covers: Wash fabric car covers according to manufacturer recommendations to prevent buildup of dirt and grime that can scratch your vehicle’s surface.
- Check mud flaps for secure attachment: Ensure that mud flaps stay firmly attached and haven’t been cracked or broken by road debris.
Keeping your accessories in top shape enhances their lifespan and keeps your QX60 better protected throughout the seasons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Weather Protection
While many Infiniti QX60 owners invest time and money into weatherproofing their vehicles, a few common mistakes can undermine even the best efforts. Being aware of these pitfalls helps ensure you’re truly safeguarding your SUV from environmental damage.
Here are some frequent mistakes:
- Using universal-fit accessories: Items that aren’t custom-fit for your QX60 may leave gaps that allow water, dirt, and debris to cause damage.
- Neglecting the undercarriage: Road salt, dirt, and moisture can silently eat away at your vehicle’s underside if you don’t clean and treat it regularly.
- Overlooking the importance of drying: Washing your SUV is great, but failing to dry it thoroughly can leave moisture trapped in seams and crevices, inviting rust and corrosion.
- Skipping seasonal maintenance: Protection needs shift with the seasons. Neglecting to adapt your approach—such as applying fresh wax before winter—can leave your QX60 vulnerable.
- Improper product use: Using the wrong cleaners or protectants can actually damage weatherproof materials or degrade finishes. Always follow manufacturer instructions.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can maximize the benefits of your weather protection strategy and keep your Infiniti QX60 looking and performing at its best.
Conclusion: Long-Term Benefits of Proper Weather Protection
Weather protection is more than just keeping your Infiniti QX60 clean—it’s about preserving the investment you’ve made in a high-quality vehicle. Regularly defending against moisture, UV radiation, dirt, and salt will extend your SUV’s lifespan, maintain its resale value, and improve your driving experience year after year.
Whether it's investing in custom-fit all-weather mats, treating your paint with high-end sealants, or simply being diligent with maintenance, every step you take contributes to your QX60’s long-term health. A few minutes of care today can prevent costly repairs and restorations down the road.
By staying proactive and informed, Infiniti QX60 owners can enjoy the comfort, performance, and beauty of their vehicles no matter what weather comes their way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weather Protection for Infiniti QX60 (2016–2022)
How often should I wax my Infiniti QX60 to protect the paint?
It’s generally recommended to wax your vehicle at least twice a year—once before winter and once before summer. However, if your Infiniti QX60 is exposed to harsh elements like road salt, heavy rain, or intense sun, you may want to wax it every three to four months. Using a ceramic coating can extend protection periods up to two years with proper maintenance.
Are custom-fit floor mats better than universal mats for weather protection?
Yes, custom-fit floor mats are highly recommended for the Infiniti QX60. They offer complete coverage without gaps, ensuring that water, mud, and debris are trapped and do not seep into your carpet. Universal mats may leave areas exposed, reducing overall protection and increasing the risk of stains or corrosion underneath.
Can I leave a weatherproof car cover on my QX60 for extended periods?
While a weatherproof car cover is great for protection, it's important to remove it periodically to check for trapped moisture. If moisture accumulates under the cover, it can lead to mildew or damage to the paint. Choose a breathable cover designed for long-term use and inspect your vehicle underneath the cover at least once a week if it's left covered for extended periods.
Is it necessary to install mud flaps on my Infiniti QX60?
Mud flaps are a smart addition, especially if you frequently drive in areas with heavy rain, snow, or gravel. They help protect your QX60’s lower body panels and undercarriage from debris, salt, and dirt, reducing the risk of paint damage and corrosion over time. They are a relatively inexpensive accessory with long-term benefits.
What’s the best way to protect leather seats from sun damage?
To protect leather seats in your Infiniti QX60 from sun damage, use UV-protectant sprays specifically formulated for leather. Parking in shaded areas, using windshield sunshades, and installing seat covers with UV resistance can also significantly reduce the risk of fading, cracking, and drying out.
How can I protect my QX60’s undercarriage during winter?
Protecting the undercarriage involves regular washing, especially after driving on salted roads. Applying an undercoating or rustproofing treatment provides an extra layer of protection against salt corrosion. Professional rustproofing services can offer long-term benefits if you frequently drive in snowy, salted conditions.
Should I use a windshield cover in both summer and winter?
Yes, windshield covers are useful year-round. In winter, they prevent ice and snow buildup, saving you time scraping your windshield. In summer, they help reflect sunlight, keeping the interior cooler and reducing UV exposure that can damage your dashboard and electronics.
Are window deflectors helpful for weather protection?
Window deflectors allow you to keep your windows slightly open for ventilation during rain without letting water into your cabin. This helps control humidity levels inside the vehicle, reducing the risk of mold and mildew, and also aids in temperature control during hot weather.
What products should I avoid when maintaining weatherproof accessories?
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners like bleach or ammonia-based products, as they can degrade the materials of weatherproof accessories such as floor mats, seat covers, and car covers. Stick to manufacturer-recommended mild soaps and cleaners designed for automotive use to preserve their protective qualities.
Is it worth investing in a ceramic coating for my Infiniti QX60?
For many owners, ceramic coatings are a worthwhile investment. They offer superior protection against UV rays, water spots, bird droppings, and chemical stains while making the vehicle easier to clean. Although the upfront cost is higher compared to traditional waxing, the long-term benefits in protection and maintenance reduction often justify the investment for those who want premium weather protection.
This article is for informational purposes only and is provided by Car Mats Customs. Car Mats Customs is an independent company and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Infiniti or Nissan Motor Corporation. All vehicle names and model descriptions are used solely to describe compatibility. For more weather protection tips and accessories designed to enhance your vehicle, visit our blog and product pages.