Winter roads may look scenic, but they hide an enemy—road salt. While it’s necessary for melting ice and keeping roads safe, road salt can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Left unchecked, it can lead to rust, corrosion, and long-term damage to your car’s undercarriage and bodywork. The good news? A few proactive steps can keep your vehicle safe from the harsh effects of road salt all winter long.
Why Road Salt is Harmful to Your Car
Road salt isn’t just table salt tossed onto icy streets. It’s a mix of sodium chloride or magnesium chloride designed to lower the freezing point of water. While it’s great for preventing icy roads, its chemical properties are highly corrosive to metal surfaces.
When road salt sticks to your car, especially in hidden areas like wheel wells and undercarriages, it mixes with moisture and accelerates rust formation. Over time, this can eat away at your car’s metal components, including brakes, suspension, and exhaust systems. Protecting your car from road salt damage is about more than aesthetics—it’s about safety and maintaining your car’s longevity.
Wash Your Car Regularly
One of the easiest and most effective ways to combat road salt damage is by keeping your car clean. Salt builds up quickly in winter, especially after snowstorms or icy conditions. Regular washing helps remove this harmful residue before it can start corroding your vehicle.
Invest in a car wash that offers an undercarriage cleaning option. The underbody is where road salt tends to collect the most, so targeting this area is crucial. And don’t just wash your car once and call it good—aim for a wash every two weeks during winter, or more often after heavy snowfalls.
Wax Your Car Before Winter Hits
A coat of wax acts as a barrier between your car’s paint and the elements. Applying wax before winter creates a protective layer that helps repel road salt, dirt, and grime. Look for high-quality car wax that’s designed to withstand harsh conditions, and don’t forget to focus on lower areas of the vehicle, like the rocker panels, where salt tends to accumulate.
If waxing feels like a hassle, consider a professional wax treatment for long-lasting protection. Some shops even offer sealants that provide an added layer of defense.
Use a Rust-Proofing Treatment
Rust-proofing is another excellent option for winter car protection. Many auto shops offer specialized sprays or treatments that coat vulnerable areas with a rust-inhibiting formula. These treatments are particularly effective on the undercarriage, where salt and moisture are most likely to cause problems.
While rust-proofing is an investment, it can save you money on costly repairs down the line. If you live in an area that uses a lot of road salt, it’s worth considering.
Inspect Your Car for Salt Buildup
Don’t wait for visible rust to appear. Make it a habit to inspect your car regularly during the winter months. Check areas like the wheel wells, undercarriage, and around the tires for signs of salt buildup. Catching it early means you can wash it off before it has a chance to cause damage.
For hard-to-reach areas, a handheld hose or pressure washer can be a great tool. Just be careful not to aim the water too forcefully at sensitive components.
Protect Your Car with Floor Mats and Covers
Road salt isn’t just an issue for your car’s exterior—it can also find its way inside when you step into your car with salty boots. That residue transfers to your carpets and floor mats. Over time, this can cause unpleasant odors and even damage your interior.
Invest in all-weather floor mats that are easy to clean and designed to trap salt and moisture. If you frequently carry gear or passengers in the back, consider protective covers for those areas as well.
Why Timely Action Matters
Rust isn’t something that happens overnight. It starts small, often in places you can’t see, and spreads over time. Once rust sets in, it’s challenging and expensive to repair. Protecting your car from road salt isn’t just a winter task—it’s an investment in keeping your car running and looking great for years to come.
Worried about road salt taking a toll on your car? Visit Richman Automotive & Towing for expert winter car care services. Contact us today!