For decades, we have used mixtures of salt and sand for safe driving and staying sure-footed on sidewalks and driveways. Salt melts ice as sand provides more traction. As much as we hate it, it is impossible to get rid of salt from the streets during winter. It is the most common and cost-effective de-icer and is easy to store, handle, and to apply.
So our best bet is keeping our car tidy to provide protection from getting rusted too quickly. Nonetheless, it won’t be entirely safe from the corrosive effects of road salt. That’s why we bring you additional tips.
Anti-rust Tips
Being one step ahead is the key to a long endurance car protection. Before the snow arrives, try to fix paint chips and scratches with touch up paint. This can be found at any car dealerships or auto supply stores.
Exposed metal will form surface rust, then blister, turning into a serious rust problem if not quickly dealt with. If surface rust has formed, there are oil sprays that can be applied in the area and slow the rust from spreading.
You can also consider other excellent options such as car wraps. These provide effective car paint protection, the same time it gives your car an amazing, cool custom look.
Sealants
Sealant treatments are commonly sold through car dealerships, and to be effective, must be applied when the vehicle is clean and dry. They provide a protective barrier against the elements (like road salt).
Sealants are a “one-time” rust inhibiting application that contains tar, wax or polymers. Nonetheless, sealants do not creep deep into a car’s metal folds where rust typically begins, and application requires an annual inspection and possible touch-up to maintain the warranty.
Rust Proofing Spray
Many car dealers and supply stores consider that having the car’s body oiled annually with a rust proofing spray is the best way to protect your car against road salt and its evil consequences. However, as with other protecting options, this must happen before winter arrives. In fact, some believe it should be applied around Spring because moisture levels fluctuate.
Look for a light mineral-based oil that creeps into door seams, folds, joints and weld spots where rust often starts. Oil-based sprays displace moisture and can be applied to a wet surface. You can also consider adding a thicker gel type oil for the underbody, wheel wells, and rocker panels, to provide optimum protection against road salt. Protect your electrical components, brake and fuel lines against corrosion.
Car’s Interior
Slush containing harsh road salt will melt off your boots and over the car’s carpet. It is difficult to scrub out and will eventually stain the interiors carpet and rot out floorboards. To avoid this, use rubber car mats to protect your car’s interior. You can find cheap generic fit mats almost anywhere that will keep the bulk of the slush off. Nonetheless, they do not provide maximum coverage because they usually don’t cover the corner spots. Car dealership or custom rubber mats for your make and model can be found at all prices. Custom fits provide better protection than the generic, so even if you pay a little more upfront, you’re protecting yourself from more expensive, future damage.
As you can see, just like anything else in your car, regular care is the most effective tip to be applied when protecting your vehicle from the weather and the salty roads.
Stay on top of your car maintenance, keep tidy and protected at all times and drive safely!