Winter driving conditions present unique challenges for car care, especially when it comes to road salt. While road salt helps maintain road safety during snowstorms, it can cause significant damage to your vehicle’s exterior and undercarriage if not properly managed. By combining a touchless car wash and a pressure washer for cars, you can effectively remove road salt and prevent corrosion, ensuring your car stays in excellent condition throughout the winter months.
Why Does Road Salt Damage Cars?
Road salt accelerates the corrosion process in the following ways:
· Clear Coat Damage: Salt chemically attacks the clear coat, exposing the paint underneath and increasing the risk of rust.
· Rust Formation: Salt accelerates rusting, especially on unprotected metal parts such as the undercarriage, suspension, and wheel rims.
· Mechanical Issues: Salt can build up on key components like axles, brakes, and suspension, leading to long-term mechanical damage if not cleaned regularly.
How to Prevent Salt Damage with a Touchless Car Wash
1. Wash Your Car Regularly
During winter, washing your car every 10 days is crucial to prevent salt buildup. Washing your car before the temperature drops below 35°F (1.7°C) is ideal since salt is less likely to affect your car when frozen.
2. Use a Touchless Car Wash System
A touchless car wash system is perfect for removing road salt, sand, and other contaminants without physically touching your car. A pressure washer for cars can be used effectively to clean sensitive areas like the undercarriage, wheel rims, and other spots where salt tends to accumulate.
Steps for Using a Touchless Car Wash and Pressure Washer for Cars:
· Pre-Wash: Start by using a pressure washer to spray high-pressure water over your car to remove as much salt and dirt as possible. Focus on the undercarriage, wheel rims, and other areas prone to salt buildup.
· High-Pressure Cleaning: Use the pressure washer to thoroughly clean the entire vehicle, ensuring that the water temperature is moderate. Cold water can make salt harder to remove, while hot water may damage certain parts of the car.
· Target Sensitive Areas: Pay extra attention to the undercarriage and wheel rims, which are especially vulnerable to salt damage.
3. Dry the Car Thoroughly
After washing, use a leaf blower or microfiber towels to completely dry your car, especially the undercarriage. This prevents water spots and mineral buildup that can lead to rust.
4. Repair Paint Chips
If you notice any paint chips or cracks larger than a pinhead, repair them immediately. This will prevent salt from penetrating the metal and causing rust.
5. Wax Your Car Regularly
Applying a coat of wax before winter creates a protective layer on your car’s paint, helping to prevent salt from sticking and reducing the risk of rust. It's recommended to wax your car every three months for long-lasting protection.
6. Apply Underbody Protection
The undercarriage of your car is particularly vulnerable to road salt damage. Applying an underbody protection layer before winter can help shield the undercarriage from corrosive elements, including salt.
7. Avoid Deep Snow and Puddles
Try to avoid driving through deep snow or large puddles, especially where salt may accumulate. Salt buildup on the undercarriage can accelerate corrosion and even affect your car's mechanical components.
Key Takeaways
· Regular Car Wash: Wash your car every 10 days during winter to prevent salt buildup.
· Touchless Car Wash and Pressure Washer: Use a touchless car wash system and a pressure washer for cars to safely remove salt without damaging the paint.
· Protective Measures: Regularly apply wax, repair paint chips, and consider underbody protection to reduce the effects of salt.
· Avoid Snow and Puddles: Steer clear of areas with deep snow or puddles where salt can accumulate, increasing corrosion risks.
By combining regular washing with a touchless car wash, pressure washing, and using protective measures like waxing and underbody treatment, you can effectively prevent road salt damage and ensure your vehicle stays in excellent condition throughout the winter months.
