Tips to protect your vehicle from road salt this winter.
Winter has arrived in Illinois. In addition to the dropping temperatures and darker days comes the risk of ice on the road. Across many of the main roads, salt will be spread in order to eat away at the ice to make streets safer. Road salt works by lowering the freezing point of water, and it works effectively to clear the roads of dangerous black ice. However, the salt can wreak havoc on your vehicle, too.
The salt can be corrosive to vehicles. Although many modern cars have improved corrosion-resistant coatings, salt is still an issue when we’re looking at long-term effects. Over time, the salt can cause rust to build on the hidden parts of your car, eating away at the metal. The salty spray can get deep into the undercarriage where the rust can quickly become a safety issue. From hydraulic brake leaks to reduced structural integrity, this simple salt solution can put your vehicle in danger.
Here’s what you can do to protect your car:
- Wash it regularly. Wash your car weekly in winter when you have been driving on salted roads. You can use an automated car wash with an undercarriage spray, or do it yourself with a pressure washer.
- Tend to your older vehicle. If you have an older car, ask your body shop for a rustproofing service. The professionals will include attention to the brake and fuel lines, as well as the electrical areas.
- De-winterize. When spring arrives, consider a thorough exterior detailing job.
These tips will help you prepare your vehicle for salted roads. For the quality car insurance that will protect you through winter and beyond, contact the team at Gee-Schussler Insurance Agency. We serve Orland Park and surrounding cities in Illinois.
