Reduce salt corrosion with basic car care.
In many parts of the country, winter is going strong. That means there is black ice, snow, and sleet. Thankfully, your local Department of Transportation will already be out there plowing and salting the roads to make them as safe as possible. Salt helps to melt snow and ice on the roads, and it also provides extra traction when combined with salt. While salted roads mean we can get from point A to point B safely, it can pose threats to our own vehicles.
Road salt can cause damage to vehicles without the motorist ever knowing. The salt speeds up the corrosion of vehicles because it is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts water. In a second vehicle-damaging process, salt increases the electrical conductivity of water, accelerating corrosion. Since road salt promotes rust and can affect the mechanics, the undercarriage of the car is at risk. From the frame to the hydraulic brake system, rust can do serious damage, making the car unsafe to drive.
If you’re looking for a way to prevent salt from damaging your vehicle, implement these practices:
- Wash your car as soon as possible after each snow or ice storm.
- Wash your car when temperatures reach 40 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
- Avoid driving in deep snow, as this can pack against the bottom of the car.
- Apply a wax to your car at least every 6 months.
- Get any paint chips or small parts of rust fixed and sealed before the snow and ice get to it.
- Avoid driving in puddles – this will largely be salty water.
We hope these tips help you to protect your vehicle from road salt. Do you need help finding the right car policy for your needs? Don’t hesitate to contact us at Kurt Rolf Insurance Agency. Serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, South Dakota, and Arizona; our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your coverage needs.
