How to Protect Your Car From Road Salt

Road salt is the natural mined mineral version of table salt. Commonly used in the winter, road salt or rock salt is not used to melt snow or ice, but to help prevent ice from forming. As the ice starts to melt, road salt begins to dissolve. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, keeping rain and falling snow from hardening and becoming slippery.

Road salt is necessary to stop roads and sidewalks from becoming icy and dangerous. It helps protect property damage and prevents bodily injury.

As much as it adds to the safety and convenience of our lives, road salt can have some damaging effects on the exterior of cars and trucks. Fortunately, your local Chevy dealer lists a few things you can do below to avoid the type of corrosion that can often happen with harsh chemicals like this one.

Road salt affects not just the underside of your car but the doors, fenders, hood and tailgate, as well. Because of your vehicle’s design, it’s possible that it may absorb a certain amount of moisture, making it more vulnerable to things like rust and corrosion. Many of us live in areas that see a significant amount of snow and rain each year. And when water droplets and air pollutants come in contact with a vehicle, it can ruin the car’s clear coat and finish.

Experts say that salt residue left on a car not only damages the exterior, but decreases the overall value of the vehicle.

Here are some steps you can take to protect it:

Wash Your Car

A routine car wash is one of the most effective ways to keep your car in top condition – getting rid of all of the impurities from the salt and rain. Be sure to concentrate on the underside of your vehicle using fresh, non-salty water, as this is an area that is most exposed to road chemicals.

Avoid Driving Through Puddles

Sometimes it’s impossible to avoid large pools of water after the rain or snowfall. But, if you do come in contact with a puddle, be sure to hose your car off as soon as your can.

Fix Chipped Paint

Corrosion takes place in areas where paint is missing from your vehicle. Even if it’s a small chip, it’s best to repair the area quickly to avoid lasting damage to the coat.

Wax Your Vehicle

One of the best ways to protect your car from road salt is by waxing it before it’s exposed to the elements. Waxing your car gives it that extra layer of protection it needs to make it through the winter months.

For more information regarding the new 2019 Chevy vehicles or more about how to protect your Chevy from road salt and other winter conditions, visit the Tinley Park Chevy Dealer in-person or online. We have a great service department and our friendly and professional staff at Apple Chevy is looking forward to seeing you!