As winter sets in, the first things that come to mind are snow and ice—two major hazards for your car. And honestly, you're not wrong. Staying cautious on icy roads can mean the difference between a safe drive home and a costly accident.
But there's another hidden danger that often goes unnoticed: rock salt. While it helps keep roads safer by melting ice, it can also be a silent enemy to your vehicle. Over time, this corrosive substance can damage your car’s undercarriage, leading to expensive repairs if left unchecked.
How Salt Affects Your Car
Most cities use a mixture of salt and sand to treat roads during winter. This helps melt existing ice and prevents new layers from forming, making your commute safer. The sand adds traction, while the salt lowers the freezing point of water, breaking up ice effectively.
However, as you drive over these treated roads, especially right after the salt trucks have passed, the salt gets kicked up and sticks to your car’s undercarriage. This area is hard to see and often ignored, so many drivers don’t realize the damage being done. In places like the Northeast, where winter storms are frequent, the buildup of salt becomes a constant threat.
Over time, this exposure can lead to:
- Rust forming on metal parts that aren’t painted or sealed.
- Scratches caused by the sharp, jagged particles of rock salt.
- Corrosion that damages key components such as the exhaust system, suspension, brakes, and muffler.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Car
It’s easy to think that your car has to endure the harsh effects of winter, but you can take proactive steps to minimize the damage. Partnering with a trusted auto service like DaSilva’s Auto Body can make all the difference.
- Waxing: Apply a high-quality wax to your entire vehicle, including the undercarriage, to create a protective barrier against salt and moisture.
- Pretreatment: Use an oil-based solution on exposed metal parts to prevent salt from adhering directly to the surface.
- Regular Washing: Keep your car clean by washing the undercarriage at a professional car wash to remove built-up salt and debris.
- Pre-Winter Inspection: Check your vehicle before the cold weather hits. Replace worn-out parts and fix any issues before they worsen due to salt exposure.
Don’t wait until spring to deal with the consequences of winter driving. Whether you need a thorough detailing, a full inspection, or necessary repairs, schedule your winter maintenance with DaSilva’s Auto Body today. Your car will thank you—and so will your wallet.
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