Preventing Corrosion from Road Salt

Posted January 19, 2017

Winter roads in Fountain are messy. Between snow, puddles, mud, and road salt, it seems impossible to keep your car clean this time of year. But washing your car is even more important now for one key reason:

Preventing Corrosion

In order to prevent thick layers of ice from collecting on the roads, the city covers the roads with snow melt or salt. That salt inevitably collects on your vehicle from splashing puddles and collected snow.

Road salt can damage your vehicle’s exterior, paint, and clear finish. When it collects on the undercarriage of your vehicle, it can also promote rust and damage any exposed components.

Here are a few tips to avoid and prevent damage from road salt during the winter in Colorado:

• Wash your car regularly. Make sure you clean and rinse the underside of your vehicle too. Automated car washes often have the option to add an undercarriage wash, and it is worth the extra cost to clean and remove the road salt.
• Avoid driving through puddles and deep snow. Salt can collect in these places and become packed into the undercarriage of your vehicle. If an alternate route is available, avoid driving in these conditions.
• Inspect for damage to the exterior. If your vehicle has visible chipping paint, have it repaired to prevent corrosion from occurring and spreading across the rest of the vehicle.
• Wax your car. Not only does waxing keep your vehicle looking its best, it also protects it! Wax creates a protective barrier that prevents salt and debris from reaching the car body itself.

This winter, don’t ignore the dirt and salt collecting on your vehicle. Washing your car is an easy and inexpensive way to protect it from corrosive road salt. If you notice damage on your vehicle, bring it into Book’s Automotive Service for a vehicle inspection. Our experienced auto technicians will catch and fix problems early so you can prevent extensive damage and stay safe on the roads in Colorado.

To schedule your next appointment, call our Fountain auto repair shop at 719.382.5691 or request an appointment online.

Categories: Auto Repair

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